The unfortunate truth is that bike accidents are on the rise in California. While regulators are looking at ways to reduce the number and impact of these accidents, in the meantime it is important to know what to do if you are involved in this type of accident. Keep reading to learn about the four steps you can take after being involved in a bike accident. Then contact The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker at 800-333-0000 to speak with an experienced personal injury attorney.
- Call the Police and Wait for Them to Arrive
- Gather Information and Evidence
- Do Not Say You Are Not Injured
- Get Medical Care
If you have even a very minor injury and/or any damage to your property then the police should be called. It is essential to have documentation of your case for your legal case to continue. It may take them some time to arrive if it is a non-emergency situation but it is worth it – and necessary – to wait for the police to arrive.
You want as much evidence as possible. This includes contact information from all parties who were directly involved in the accident and contact information from any eyewitnesses. Take photos and video if it is safe to do so. If you are seriously injured then gathering evidence can be left up to the police – stay where you are and wait for medical help.
One of the most common reasons that car accident cases are denied is because the victim claimed they were not injured. It is often the case that, in the heat of the accident, adrenaline is coursing through the veins and the victim may not feel pain. There is no reason to say this to the police or insurance company who may talk to you.
Just because you are not bleeding does not mean you are not injured. Some studies show that as many as 70% of people who did not think they were injured at the time of the accident end up feeling pain the next day. If someone asks if you are injured, tell them that you are not sure. This is the truth and it keeps your options open if it turns out you are injured.
Yes, even if you do not think you are injured. If you feel okay, you do not necessarily need to go away in an ambulance, but you should go to the emergency room, urgent care, or your own doctor as soon as you can. Remember that refusing or neglecting to get care can be used as “evidence” that the injuries you may face in the future are not real injuries.
Of course, we also recommend that you contact The Law Offices of Larry H. Parker at 800-333-0000 for a free legal consultation. We can better assess your case and determine what your best options are to move forward.
