California is the third state most bike-friendly in the U.S. But, it is also the state with the highest rate of car-related bicycle injuries in the country. Sadly, according to the report published by The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), which collects accident statistics for accidents, there are a total of 48,000 bicycle injuries from auto accidents reported as of last year.
Statistics reported that 1 out of 4 drivers who caused a bicycle accident never received a citation for their crimes. If you’ve been hurt in a bike accident, you can start a legal process to get compensation for your damages. Sometimes victims are afraid of drivers’ violent attitudes, but you have to know that you have the right to receive compensation for your injuries.
After a bicycle accident, you should follow the steps of any other personal injury case.
Here is a review of the steps to follow:
– If possible, move out of the traffic and put yourself in the safest place.
– Call 911 and get medication attention. Prioritize yourself; after any accident, you have to receive medical attention even if you don’t have apparent injuries. Sometimes the injuries came weeks or even months after the accident.
– Call the police to report the accident. This report would be a great tool at the moment to present your case.
– Gather all the evidence possible: photos, videos, witness information, etc. Make sure to have at least the name and phone number of every witness. Your lawyers will need this information to get in contact with them.
– Call your insurance and your personal injury lawyer.
Not sure if you can start a claim after your injury? Call us at (855) 922-2812! We can review your case and help you get the compensation you or your loved one deserves.