Getting into any kind of auto accident is always scary but this can be especially true if you are riding a bicycle when you are struck by a car. That is a battle the cyclist is obviously going to lose every time, but you might be able to win a battle in the courtroom if it can be proven that the car's driver is at fault. To that end, here are some tips to keep in mind after getting hit by a car while driving your bicycle.
Get the License Plate Number and Contact the Police
After making sure your injuries are not life-threatening, you should begin collecting information. Take a photo of the vehicle's license plate number and any damage to your bike, the car, or nearby property. You should also consider calling the police and asking for a report. An official report by the police (or a ticket issued to the driver of the car) could go a long way towards backing up your side of the story in court.
Look for Nearby Witnesses
At the end of the day though, it might be he said, she said when it comes to the account of the accident. You will be in a better position if there are any nearby witnesses to what happened. If there are no other individuals nearby that you can get contact information for, look for area businesses that might have a security camera pointing out towards the street. Some traffic lights also have cameras installed. Hiring a lawyer might help you get access to these videos if necessary.
Consider Medical Attention Before Leaving Scene
Finally, even if you are not seriously injured, you might want to consider seeking medical attention either at the scene or at a nearby hospital without delay. If you are able to leave the scene without any aid at all, this might make it look like your injuries are not that bad. You could also have an internal injury you are not even aware of.
Getting hit while on a bicycle can figuratively (and literally) throw you off your game.Seek medical attention if you need it, but otherwise try to keep your wits about you and use the same common sense you would if you were in a regular auto accident. Cyclists do have rights out on the road and if the auto driver failed to respect those rights, you could be entitled to compensation. Contact a local bicycle accident attorney today for more information.
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