Steps to Take After a Bicycle Crash in VA
Riding a bicycle is a great way to stay healthy and avoid traffic congestion. However, bike accidents can also lead to serious injuries. If you’ve been in a bicycle crash in Virginia, you’ll need to take quick action to protect your rights. Follow these 10 essential steps after a bicycle accident to make an insurance claim and seek fair compensation.
Our team of personal injury attorneys are resourceful, experienced, and knowledgeable regarding your rights. To learn more about how we can help you, call Altizer Law today at 540.345.2000.
1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Seeking prompt medical care is the most important thing to do after any bicycle accident. Call 911 if you or others need emergency assistance at the scene. Even if you feel fine initially, see a doctor as soon as possible. Adrenaline can mask serious injuries like fractures, head trauma and spinal damage. A prompt medical evaluation will also document your injuries for your insurance claim.
2. Report the Bicycle Accident to Police
Contact the local police department to file an official report after a bicycle crash. The police report can provide independent documentation of how the accident occurred and who was at fault. Get the law enforcement report number, involved officers’ badge numbers and request a copy of the report. Having an official police report will strengthen your insurance claim and personal injury case.
3. Gather Contact and Insurance Information
Try to gather identifying details for all involved drivers and witnesses on scene. Get drivers’ names, contact info, license plate numbers and insurance details. Also get contact information for any witnesses who saw the accident happen. Ask witnesses to give official statements to police as their accounts could bolster your claim.
4. Collect Evidence from the Bicycle Accident Scene
Use your smartphone to take photos of the bike accident scene and damage to vehicles and bikes. Capture images showing road hazards like potholes or debris that may have caused or contributed to the crash. Also photograph any injuries you sustained. Documenting conditions at the scene provides key visual evidence for your bike accident claim.
5. Report Your Bicycle Accident to Insurance Companies
Notify your insurer and the at-fault driver’s insurer about the bike crash as soon as possible. Give your statement of what occurred and request a claim number. Review the claims process, coverages and time frames. Promptly reporting the accident and cooperating with insurers will help advance your claim.
6. Keep Detailed Records About the Bicycle Accident
Write down as much as you can remember about how the crash happened and your resulting injuries. Keep a file with medical records, repair invoices, lost wage details and expenses incurred due to the bicycle accident. Thorough documentation will verify your losses when negotiating your settlement.
7. Consult a Bicycle Accident Attorney
Retaining an experienced Virginia bicycle accident lawyer is highly recommended. An attorney can conduct an investigation, evaluate liability, negotiate your claim and file a lawsuit if warranted. Having knowledgeable legal counsel looking out for your best interests is vital after a serious bike crash.
8. Focus on Your Recovery After the Bicycle Crash
Make following your doctors’ treatment plans a priority after your bicycle accident. Proper medical care can help you heal faster and maximize your compensation. Avoid posts on social media about activities that could undermine the seriousness of your injuries. Keep close track of how the accident affects your daily functioning.
9. Do Not Provide Recorded Statements to Insurers
Insurers may request recorded statements about your bicycle accident early on. Politely decline to provide an immediate recorded statement until you consult a bike accident attorney. Anything you say can be used against you later. A lawyer can prepare you to give an accurate statement.
10. Be Realistic When Evaluating Your Bicycle Accident Claim
Bicycle injury claims can seek compensation for medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering and other damages. Understand that insurers will try to minimize your payout however possible. Experienced bicycle accident lawyers know how to maximize rightful compensation through assertive representation.
5 Frequently Asked Questions About Bicycle Accident Claims in Virginia
1. Should an attorney be contacted after a bicycle accident?
Yes, it is highly advisable to contact an experienced bicycle accident attorney for guidance if you are injured in a crash involving a car, truck or other vehicle. A bike accident attorney can protect your rights, build your claim, deal with insurers and pursue maximum compensation.
2. How long do I have to file a claim after a Virginia bicycle accident?
Virginia has a two year statute of limitations to file injury claims after bicycle crashes. It is wise to act promptly to avoid missing legal deadlines. A personal injury attorney can provide specific statute details based on your case.
3. What damages can a bicyclist recover after an accident?
Possible damages may include medical expenses, lost income and benefits, costs for household services, property damage, and pain and suffering damages. A bike accident attorney can pursue full and fair compensation.
4. Can I still bring a claim if I was partly at fault for the bike accident?
Yes, Virginia follows modified comparative negligence rules. You can still recover damages reduced by your percentage of fault, as long as it was under 51% in causing the accident.
5. Who pays for damages in bicycle vs. car accident claims?
The at-fault driver’s liability insurance generally pays for damages in a bicycle accident claim. If that coverage is insufficient, the bicyclist’s UIM and medical insurance can also help cover costs.
Selecting a Bicycle Accident Lawyer in Virginia
Sustaining injuries in a preventable bicycle collision can be devastating. Following these key steps will help you take control of the situation, get properly compensated and focus on healing after a Virginia bicycle accident.
Altizer Law has guided clients through their personal injury cases with a personalized touch. We are here to help you and treat every client with the utmost care and empathy. Call our team of experienced attorneys today at 540.345.2000.
