Steps To Take If You’re A Cyclist Hit By A Motor Vehicle

For cyclists, sharing the road with motor vehicles can be a dangerous endeavor. Even with the proper safety precautions, accidents can happen. If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of being hit by a motor vehicle while cycling, there are important steps you should take to ensure your safety and protect your legal rights.

In this article, we will go over the necessary steps to take if you are a cyclist hit by a motor vehicle. From seeking medical attention to documenting the accident, these steps will help you navigate the aftermath of a potentially traumatic experience.

If you’re a cyclist hit by a motor vehicle, the first thing to do is to make sure you are safe and seek medical attention if necessary. Then, call the police and exchange information with the driver. Take photos of the accident scene, damages, and injuries. Get contact information from any witnesses. Finally, contact a personal injury attorney who specializes in bicycle accidents to help you navigate the legal process.

What to Do If You’re a Cyclist Hit by a Motor Vehicle

1. Check for Injuries

If you’ve been hit by a motor vehicle while cycling, the most important thing to do is to assess yourself for injuries. If you are able to, move to a safe spot away from traffic and call for medical assistance immediately. If you are experiencing severe pain or have any doubts about your injuries, do not attempt to move and wait for emergency services to arrive.

It’s also important to check the driver and any passengers in the vehicle involved for injuries. If anyone is injured, call for medical assistance immediately.

2. Document the Accident

Once you’ve assessed your injuries and called for medical assistance, it’s important to document the accident. Take photos of the scene, including the location, damage to your bike, and any injuries you may have sustained. Get the driver’s name and contact information, as well as the contact information of any witnesses to the accident.

It’s also important to get the driver’s insurance information, as you may need to file a claim for damages or injuries sustained.

3. File a Police Report

Regardless of the severity of the accident, it’s important to file a police report. This will provide an official record of the accident and can be used as evidence if you need to file a claim or take legal action.

When filing the report, be sure to provide as much detail as possible, including the time and location of the accident, the names and contact information of any witnesses, and any injuries or damage sustained.

4. Seek Medical Treatment

Even if you feel fine after the accident, it’s important to seek medical treatment as soon as possible. Some injuries may not become apparent until later on, and prompt treatment can prevent complications and help with your recovery.

Be sure to keep records of any medical treatment you receive, including doctor’s visits, hospital stays, and medication prescribed.

5. Contact Your Insurance Company

If you have insurance coverage for cycling accidents, be sure to contact your insurance company as soon as possible. They can provide guidance on what steps to take next and can help you file a claim for damages or injuries sustained.

6. Consider Hiring a Personal Injury Lawyer

If you’ve sustained serious injuries or significant damage to your property, you may want to consider hiring a personal injury lawyer. They can help you navigate the legal process and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.

7. Keep Track of Expenses

Throughout the recovery process, be sure to keep track of all expenses related to the accident. This includes medical bills, bike repair costs, and any other expenses incurred as a result of the accident.

This information will be important if you need to file a claim or take legal action, and can help ensure that you receive fair compensation for your losses.

8. Follow Through with Treatment and Recovery

Recovering from a cycling accident can be a long and difficult process, but it’s important to follow through with treatment and give yourself time to heal. Be sure to attend all doctor’s appointments and follow their instructions for recovery.

If you’re experiencing any emotional or psychological distress as a result of the accident, consider seeking counseling or therapy to help you cope.

9. Stay Safe on the Road

While it can be difficult to get back on your bike after an accident, it’s important to stay safe on the road. Wear appropriate safety gear, including a helmet, and follow traffic laws and signals.

Consider taking a cycling safety course to refresh your skills and learn new techniques for staying safe on the road.

10. Advocate for Safer Cycling Infrastructure

Finally, consider advocating for safer cycling infrastructure in your community. Contact your local government officials and urge them to invest in bike lanes, traffic calming measures, and other infrastructure improvements that can help prevent accidents and keep cyclists safe on the road.

By taking these steps, you can protect yourself and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages if you’re ever involved in a cycling accident with a motor vehicle. Remember to always prioritize your safety and the safety of those around you while cycling on the road.

Frequently Asked Questions

Being hit by a motor vehicle while cycling can be a traumatic experience. If you find yourself in this situation, it’s important to know what steps to take to ensure your safety and protect your legal rights. Here are some frequently asked questions about what to do if you’re a cyclist hit by a motor vehicle:

What should I do immediately after being hit by a motor vehicle?

The first thing you should do is check yourself for injuries. If you’re able to move, get to a safe location off the road. Call 911 and report the accident to the police. Exchange contact and insurance information with the driver of the motor vehicle, and get contact information from any witnesses. Take photos of the accident scene, including damage to your bike and the motor vehicle.

Even if you think you’re not injured, it’s a good idea to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as concussions or internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent but can be life-threatening if left untreated.

What if the driver of the motor vehicle flees the scene?

If the driver of the motor vehicle flees the scene, try to get their license plate number and a description of the vehicle. Call 911 and report the hit-and-run. If there were any witnesses to the accident, get their contact information and ask them to stay until the police arrive. If you have uninsured motorist coverage on your auto insurance policy, it may cover your medical expenses and property damage even if the driver is never identified.

If you’re injured, seek medical attention immediately. Some states have hit-and-run victim compensation funds that can help pay for medical expenses and/or property damage.

What if the driver of the motor vehicle is uninsured or underinsured?

If the driver of the motor vehicle is uninsured or underinsured, you may have to rely on your own insurance policy to cover your medical expenses and property damage. If you have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage on your auto insurance policy, it may cover your expenses up to the policy limits. Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident and file a claim.

If you don’t have uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, you may need to hire a personal injury attorney to help you recover damages from the driver. If the driver doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your expenses, you may be able to sue them for the difference.

Should I talk to the driver’s insurance company?

You should never speak to the driver’s insurance company without first consulting an attorney. The insurance company’s goal is to pay out as little as possible, and they may try to get you to admit fault or downplay your injuries. If the driver’s insurance company contacts you, tell them to contact your attorney instead.

Your attorney can help you negotiate with the insurance company and ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and property damage.

Should I file a lawsuit?

Whether or not to file a lawsuit is a decision that should be made in consultation with your attorney. If the driver’s insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, you may need to file a lawsuit to recover damages. Your attorney can help you evaluate the strength of your case and determine whether a lawsuit is the best course of action.

Keep in mind that lawsuits can be lengthy and expensive, so it’s important to have a realistic understanding of the potential outcomes and costs before deciding to proceed.

In conclusion, being hit by a motor vehicle while cycling can be a traumatic and life-altering experience. However, there are steps you can take to protect yourself and your rights. Firstly, seek medical attention immediately, even if you feel fine. Secondly, gather as much information as possible about the incident, including the driver’s details and witness statements. Finally, consider seeking legal advice to ensure you receive the compensation and support you deserve.

Remember, the aftermath of a cycling accident can be overwhelming, but taking these steps can help you to regain control and move forward. By prioritizing your health, gathering evidence, and seeking legal support, you can ensure that justice is served and your rights are protected. Stay safe on the road, and always be prepared in case the worst happens.