Your Rights After A Bicycle Collision

Bicycle accidents can be terrifying and life-changing. Whether you were hit by a car, a truck, or another cyclist, the aftermath of a collision can leave you dealing with injuries, emotional distress, and mounting medical bills. But it’s important to know that you have certain rights that can help you recover from the accident. Hire an experienced bicycle accident lawyer for assistance holding those responsible for the crash accountable.

Right To Medical Treatment

First and foremost, your health and well-being are the top priorities after a bicycle accident. If you’re harmed, you have the right to seek medical treatment. Even if your injuries seem minor at first, it’s crucial to get checked by a healthcare professional. Some injuries, like concussions or internal injuries, might not be immediately obvious but can worsen over time.

Seeking medical attention not only helps you recover, but it also creates an important record of your injuries, which will be valuable if you decide to pursue a claim later on.

Right To File A Police Report

If you’re involved in a bicycle collision, especially one with a motor vehicle, it’s essential to contact the police. A police report helps establish the facts of the accident and can serve as key evidence in any future legal actions. It documents details such as the location, time, and cause of the accident, as well as witness statements. If the driver was at fault, the police report can also indicate whether they were cited for any traffic violations, like running a red light or driving under the influence.

Even if the accident seems minor, always call the police. Having official documentation can be vital for both your insurance claim and any legal steps you may need to take.

Right To Gather Evidence

After ensuring that you’re safe and receiving medical attention, gathering evidence is one of the most important things you can do. This can include:

Photographing the scene
Collecting witness statements and cell phone pictures or video footage
Get the driver’s contact information

The more evidence you can collect, the stronger your personal injury claim will be.

Right To Compensation

If the accident wasn’t your fault, you have the right to seek compensation for the damages and injuries you sustained. This can include:

Past, current, and future expenses
Lost wages and reduced earning potential
Pain and suffering

The process for claiming compensation can be difficult, especially if the responsible party’s insurance company tries to minimize your payout. That’s why many cyclists choose to work with a lawyer who specializes in personal injury law. An accident attorney can handle the claims process for you, negotiate with insurers, and ensure your rights are protected.

Right To Pursue Legal Action

If the driver or another party was reckless or at fault for the accident, you have the right to pursue legal action through a personal injury lawsuit. Negligence might include things like:

The driver not yielding the right of way
Distracted driving (e.g., texting while driving)
Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
Failing to stop at a stop sign or traffic light

If you file a legal claim, a lawyer can help you understand the process, gather evidence, and represent your interests in court or during settlement negotiations.

Right To Fair Treatment

It’s also important to know that you have the right to fair treatment throughout the entire claim process. Insurance companies may try to shift the blame onto you or offer a low settlement, hoping you’ll accept quickly. They are often more interested in protecting their profits than in getting you the full compensation you deserve.

This is where having an experienced attorney can make a significant difference. A lawyer will ensure that your rights are upheld, that you recover all the damages you’re entitled to, and that you’re not bullied into a quick settlement.

After a bicycle collision, it’s important to know that you have legal rights that can protect you during what may be a difficult time. From medical treatment to compensation for your injuries, you don’t have to deal with this challenging process alone. Whether you’re seeking to settle with insurance or take legal action, our friends at Strong Law Accident & Injury Attorneys say understanding your rights and having the support of a skilled attorney can make a world of difference in your recovery and lawsuit.

If you’ve been involved in a bicycle accident, consider speaking with a personal injury lawyer for help with your civil case.