Serving Bicycle Accident Victims in Wenatchee, Yakima, and Everett
Every choice you make following a bicycle accident can mean the difference between a successful personal injury claim and a failed one. If you’ve been hurt in an accident, you are probably facing mounting bills and unexpected costs that you cannot afford. When someone else has injured you, it is your legal right to pursue compensation for the damages. Here are a few key steps to take right after an accident to help ensure a successful claim.
Get A Police Report And Tell Your Story
Not only is it important to notify the police of an accident, but it is also important to wait for them to arrive at the scene. Even if you aren’t sure if you are injured or not, it is crucial that a police report exist.
The officer will probably take a statement from the car driver involved in the accident, but might not make a point of speaking to you. Don’t let that happen! Make sure you get your version of the story into the police report and mention all possible injuries you have suffered. No matter how minor the injury may be, it’s worth reporting. Many injuries such as neck pain and whiplash usually surface over time.
If an officer does not arrive at the scene you can file a report at the nearest police station.
Exchange Information
Get all pertinent information from the driver who hit you. You will want a name, contact number, driver’s license number, and insurance details. It is also important to get similar information from any witnesses to the crash. If you are too injured from the crash to collect these materials, try to get a bystander to help you.
Keep Records And Take Notes About The Accident
An accident can happen so suddenly it can be difficult to recall every detail of the incident. Throughout the process, make mental notes and write down everything you remember. Make notes on how, when, and where the accident happened. What was the weather like? What were the road conditions like?
Keep your bike and other damaging evidence in the same condition as it was immediately following the crash. Do not repair either the bike or your gear. Take photos of your clothes and equipment, and do not share your evidence with anyone but your own lawyer.
Keep Records Of Your Injuries
See a medical professional right away. It doesn’t matter if you think you are not seriously hurt. A doctor can determine if your injuries will get worse over time, and what treatments you will require. Keep copies of medical reports and bills. Take photos of your injuries as soon as possible, and continue to photograph them over time as they either heal or worsen.
Do not give insurance adjusters access to your medical records. Do not sign any agreements or settlements before you have discussed it with your attorney.
If you have been injured in a bicycle accident, you need the representation of an experienced and knowledgeable attorney. Please contact the Bernard Law Group for a free and comprehensive consultation. We will help you through what can be a complex legal process and work to secure the compensation you rightfully deserve.
IF YOU, OR A LOVED ONE, HAVE BEEN SERIOUSLY INJURED IN A BICYCLE ACCIDENT IN WASHINGTON – CALL TODAY FOR A FREE CONSULTATION!
