Here are the 15 Essential Steps to Take After a Bicycle Accident:

1. Prioritize Safety

Your #1 priority should be safety as soon as the accident occurs. If you are on the road and in harm's way, move to a safe area away from traffic if possible.

2. Call 911 for Medical and Police Assistance

Calling 911 will alert the police and emergency services in your area immediately. It is essential to have your injuries assessed at the scene by emergency services. Even seemingly minor injuries could have serious underlying issues. Additionally, a Police Report is crucial for insurance claims and legal proceedings.

3. Stay Calm and Assess Injuries

Take a deep breath and remain as calm as possible. Check yourself for injuries and assess their severity. Remember that shock can mask pain, so be thorough in evaluating your condition.

4. Check Your Helmet and Your Head

After a bicycle crash, it's crucial to check your helmet and your head for signs of a head injury, such as a concussion or traumatic brain injury (TBI). Even if your head didn't directly impact anything, the force of the crash can still lead to head injuries. Examine your helmet for any visible damage, as even a small scuff or dent can indicate an impact. Additionally, pay close attention to your own condition. Look for symptoms like disorientation, confusion, headache, difficulty finding your balance, nausea, vomiting, or feeling generally "off." These symptoms can be indicative of a head injury, and if you experience them, it's important to seek medical attention promptly to ensure your safety and well-being.

5. Remain at the Scene and File a Police Report

Remaining at the scene of a bicycle accident is imperative for several reasons. First and foremost, it is a legal obligation, as both cyclists and other parties involved in accidents are required to stay until authorities arrive. Additionally, staying ensures that you can provide vital information to law enforcement, including your perspective on the incident, which can be crucial for insurance claims and legal proceedings. Injuries sustained in a bicycle accident may not be immediately apparent, so staying allows you to assess your condition and seek medical attention promptly if necessary.

6. Exchange Information

Exchange contact information with the other parties involved. Obtain their name, address, phone number, driver's license number, vehicle information (including license plate number), and insurance details. Be sure to get the business card or contact information from the officer and get the accident report number.

7. Document the Scene

Use your smartphone or camera to document the accident scene. Take photos of the vehicles involved, the damage, road conditions, traffic signals, and any visible injuries. If possible, draw maps and document the location including street signs or landmarks. These visual records can be valuable later.

8. Get Witness Statements

If there are any witnesses to the accident, ask for their contact information and request a brief statement about what they saw. Witness accounts can be crucial for clarifying the events leading up to the accident. Make sure their statements are included in the police report.

9. Do NOT Engage with the Other Party Beyond the Exchange of Information

Do not negotiate with the other party or engage in conversation beyond exchanging information. Avoid admitting fault or making statements that could be interpreted as an admission of guilt.  Remember, it can take days for the full extent of injuries and property damages to surface.  Contact a reputable bicycle accident lawyer for a free consultation before discussing details with the other party or insurance companies.

10. Contact a Bicycle Accident Attorney

Contacting a bicycle accident attorney such as Bike Legal Utah, rather than a general personal injury attorney, is essential because of their specialized expertise in handling cases specific to cyclists. Bicycle accident attorneys understand the intricacies of traffic laws, cyclist rights, and the factors that commonly contribute to bike accidents. Retaining a bicycle accident attorney can lead to better outcomes for injured cyclists.

11. Do NOT Communicate with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies aim to minimize settlements and may not act in the injured cyclists' best interest. Insurance adjusters may even attempt premature settlements before all the necessary information is available to support the claim. Instead, it's advisable to seek the expertise of a bicycle accident attorney who can effectively navigate the complexities of insurance claims, protect the cyclist's rights, and ensure fair compensation is pursued.

12. Preserve Evidence

Keep any damaged clothing, your bicycle, and any other gear in its post-accident condition. Do not wash or repair them until you have consulted with an attorney and documented the damage thoroughly. This evidence can be crucial for insurance claims or legal actions.

13. Seek Medical Attention No Matter How Minor the Crash

After a bike accident, it's important to see a doctor promptly, even if the injuries seem minor, as adrenaline can mask pain and potentially serious issues may be hidden. Delaying medical attention could lead to complications, infections, or improper healing. Doctors can also assess internal injuries and address seemingly minor problems like road rash caused by unsanitary road conditions. Prompt medical care is essential to ensure proper treatment and recovery, especially for head injuries, fractures, and sprains, which might not be obvious but could result in long-term issues if untreated.

14. Follow Medical Advice

Adhere to the treatment and follow-up instructions provided by your healthcare professional. This not only ensures your recovery but also creates a paper trail of your injuries for potential legal claims.

15. Keep Detailed Records

Maintain a detailed record of all expenses related to the accident, including medical bills, property damage, loss of income, and any other relevant expenses. This documentation will help support your claims. Additionally, keep a journal of how you feel each day, your symptoms, and the progress of your physical and emotional recovery.

What Can Cyclists Do to Protect Themselves in the Event of a Bicycle Crash?

1. Wear a Proper Bicycle Helmet

Strapping on a good bicycle helmet that has not been damaged is your best defense against brain injuries. The Truth About Your Cycling Helmet explains it all.

2. Choose Safe Routes

Research options for your route ahead of time.  Look for routes that offer protected bike lanes or bike trails that are separated from traffic.  If those aren't options, seek roads with good bike lanes.

3. Be Visible

Wear brightly colored or reflective clothing that drivers can see from a distance.  Use a bright headlight and tail light during the day and at night.

4. Carry a Fully Charged Cell Phone

Make sure your phone is fully charged when you head out the door.  Let a friend or family member know where you are going and when you expect to return.

5. Be Predictable

Stay in the bike lane and pedal a smooth and steady line.

6. Obey Traffic Laws

Know your state laws and follow them.  Typically, cyclists must follow the same laws as motorists including stopping at stop signs and red lights.  Abiding by traffic laws goes a long way in earning respect from drivers.

7. Use Hand Signals

Have you ever been annoyed by a driver who doesn't use his blinkers?  Same story here.  Communicating your intentions goes a long way in helping to prevent crashes. Learn more about hand signals in the article Bicycle Hand Signals for Safe Cycling.

8. If Possible- Use Front and Rear Cameras

Yes, they can be expensive.  But also well worth the cost if you ride in traffic frequently.  The video footage can be useful in proving fault.

Bicycle crashes can be harrowing experiences, but knowing the essential steps to take in the aftermath can make a significant difference in ensuring your safety, protecting your rights, and aiding your recovery. From prioritizing safety and contacting emergency services to seeking medical attention and preserving evidence, these steps guide cyclists through challenging situations. Additionally, seeking legal counsel from a specialized bicycle accident attorney and refraining from direct negotiations with insurance companies can help ensure fair compensation and a smoother road to recovery. Remember, being prepared and informed can make all the difference when it comes to handling a bicycle accident effectively and efficiently.

At Bike Legal our mission is to advocate for bicycle safety and sharing the road responsibly through education.

Our legal team is committed to supporting and representing cyclists no matter where you ride or how you ride.

If you or someone you know has been involved in a bicycle accident,

Bike Legal is here to help!

Visit: www.BikeLegalUtah.com 

or call 877-BIKE LEGAL (877-245-3534)