Following a bicycle accident with a car, call 911 immediately to report the occurrence and obtain any necessary medical assistance. After experiencing something like this, you may feel shocked and find it difficult to plan your next course of action. However, the steps you take immediately after the accident are critical to your safety, health, and future compensation claims.
Documenting your injuries and damages in detail, exchanging information with the other person involved, and gathering evidence at the scene are all crucial. This first stage establishes the framework for protecting your rights. Remember that dealing with the aftermath of a bicycle accident requires complex legal considerations and insurance difficulties. Consulting with a Florida Bicycle Accident Lawyer at Whittel & Melton can help you handle the hurdles of a bike crash successfully.
Step-by-Step Guide for Bike Crash Victims
What you do following a bike-car collision can have a big impact on both your legal status and your ability to recover financial compensation. Follow these tips to guarantee that you handle the matter properly.
Call 911 ASAP
Your health and safety come first. When you call 911, two important things happen: first, a police officer responds to the bike crash site and files an official report; second, emergency medical personnel are guaranteed to arrive in case you or anyone else requires medical assistance. This police report is an essential document for use in court cases and insurance claims.
Document the Scene of the Bike Crash
If your health permits, take as many detailed pictures and videos as you can of the crash area, including your bike, the other car, any visible injuries, and the surrounding elements like the road and traffic signs. This visual proof can be very helpful in establishing liability and providing background information on the accident.
Exchange Information with the Other Parties Involved
Securely share contact and insurance information with the driver. Get their name, address, phone number, license plate number, driver’s license number, and insurance company information. If there are any witnesses, ask for their contact information.
Seek Medical Care
Even if you feel great, some injuries may not be visible right away. See a doctor as soon as possible to obtain a complete examination. Medical records will be crucial evidence of any injuries experienced in the bike crash.
Inform Your Insurance Provider
As soon as you can, report the accident to your insurance provider. Give them an honest explanation of what transpired, but refrain from assigning blame or making specific claims until you have retained legal counsel.
Maintain a Detailed Log of Important Information
Create a file to organize all accident-related documents and information. Thorough paperwork supports your insurance claim. All medical bills and paperwork, insurance company correspondence, and the police report should be included in this file.
You should also keep a detailed diary of your recuperation, including dates and details of medical appointments, as well as how your injuries affect your daily life and job. Keep all the receipts for your accident—not just the ones for medical expenses. Keep track of all receipts for expenses related to the accident, including those for bike replacement or repairs. Your file should also include information of your pre-accident income.
Consult With a Bike Crash Attorney
A personal injury lawyer can help you make sure your rights are safeguarded before you sign any paperwork from insurance companies or settle any claims. A Florida Bike Accident Lawyer at Whittel & Melton can guide you through every aspect of your case, assisting with settlement negotiations with insurance providers and, if needed, fighting for your rights in court.
How Can You Protect Your Claim After a Bike Crash?
Avoid Discussing Fault at the Bike Crash Site
It makes sense that you would want to talk about the accident at the site, but sharing your thoughts about who should be held accountable could hurt your case. Insurance adjusters and legal teams may use such statements against you. Exchange the information that is required politely, without assigning blame or making assumptions about what caused the accident.
Approach Insurance Companies With Caution
Not long after an accident, victims are frequently contacted by insurance firms to request statements or make compensation offers. While they may appear helpful, their primary objective is to reduce compensation. Politely reject to provide specific details or accept any offers until you talk with a bike crash attorney. Your lawyer will handle all discussions with insurance companies to safeguard your interests.
Follow All Medical Advice
Following the advice of your doctor is essential for both your claim and your recovery. Skipping visits or not adhering to treatment programs may be seen as proof that your injuries are not as bad as claimed. Go to all your doctor’s appointments and pay close attention to their advice.
Watch What You Post on Social Media
Posting pictures or other details about your accident, injuries, or recovery any social media platform could jeopardize your claim. The insurance companies have investigators and lawyers on their side constantly digging up anything that could be used to contradict your claim, so anything that you post is fair game. The best thing you can do is to avoid posting and restrict your usage.
Protect Your Rights with a Florida Bike Crash Lawyer
You must act fast to protect your rights after a bike crash. Under Florida’s bike statute of limitations, you generally have two years from the date of the crash to file a claim. After this deadline expires, you could lose your right to file a claim for financial compensation. Our Florida Bike Crash Lawyers at Whittel & Melton are here to assist you through every stage of your legal journey. Call us now at 866-608-5529 or contact us online for a FREE consultation where we can discuss how we can help you recover the just compensation you deserve for your Florida bike crash.