At Kozloff Stoudt Attorneys, our personal injury lawyers in Reading, PA have helped many injured cyclists navigate the stressful time after an accident involving a vehicle. Below, we have put together a set of steps that will make it easier for you to receive financial compensation after a crash.
After a bike-related accident, you should do the following.
Call the Police
Always call the police after a bicycle accident involving a car because the resulting report will provide an independent record of what has occurred. The responding officer should interview you, the vehicle’s driver and any witnesses to the crash.
Get Insurance and Contact Information
Collect the phone number of the car’s driver and any witnesses. Additionally, you should exchange insurance information with the driver. During this conversation, do not admit fault or minimize your pain. If you are too injured to get insurance and contact information yourself, then ask a bystander to help.
Take Photographs
Snap a photo of the car’s license plate and the scene of the accident. This evidence ensures that, if the driver leaves, they will still be held responsible for any harm that they have caused. You should also take photos of your damaged bike and your injuries.
Take Notes
Jot down the details of your accident, including:
- The events before, during and after the collision
- The date and time
- The location
- Why the accident occurred
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Due to the effects of adrenaline, you may not notice your injuries right away, and minor aches may develop into lifelong problems. If your helmet is cracked, you should also be checked for a concussion. Visit the emergency room or your regular doctor to protect your health and provide proof of your injuries.
Preserve Evidence
Until the accident has been resolved:
- Don’t fix your bike
- Don’t wash the clothes you were wearing
- Keep damaged equipment safe
Speak to a Personal Injury Lawyer
After a serious accident, it is easy to be overwhelmed by painful injuries, medical bills and a confusing insurance process. A reputable personal injury attorney can guide you through this process, and you won’t need to pay a single dollar until you have received a settlement.
If you need a PA injury attorney near Reading who has extensive experience with bike-related accidents, you can contact our team at Kozloff Stoudt Attorneys by calling 610-370-6700 today!