What To Do After A Bicycle Accident

Seek proper medical care

Document all injuries

Get a police report and obtain a copy for your records

Record the name and address of the bicyclist and their insurance provider’s information

Obtain the names of any witnesses that may have seen the accident occur

Do not talk too much with the others involved or their friends or family members

Avoid speaking directly to the bike rider’s attorney or auto insurance company

Have your personal injury attorney deal with the auto insurance company or the others involved

Who Is At Fault In Orange Or LA County Bike Accidents

It is possible for both parties to be somewhat at fault. For instance, the pedestrian may have some fault if they were crossing the street illegally, or dashed out unsafely. If the cyclist was traveling too fast, over the posted speed limit he or she may have some liability as well. From the police report statements, it may be immediately clear to establish who was at fault.

When a police report assigns fault, this is not the final decision. Insurance companies may dispute the conclusion. It is common for an insurance company to send an adjuster to review the scene of the accident, or examine the damage suffered soon after the accident. It is important to retain a personal injury attorney as soon as possible to represent your best interests to the insurance company.

Insurance Policy Results

Most injured pedestrians are covered under their health and disability insurance policies. If you don’t have coverage and were injured by a bicycle as a pedestrian, it may be possible to file a claim against the liability insurance policy of the other party.

Many times the accident victim is unable to work due to the injuries incurred. One of the most common injuries suffered is brain injury. In addition to the pain and suffering directly after the collision, there may be ongoing and follow up medical treatment.

If you missed work due to your injuries, you may be able to recover your lost wages in addition to the medical bills for your pedestrian accident injuries. Should the insurance company refuse to give a fair deal, it may be necessary to take the claim to court. It is therefore most advisable as bicycle accident victims to seek advice and services from these professionals because they may be your best chance at receiving compensation.

California Bicycle Laws

According to the California Vehicle Code Laws, bicyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as the operators of cars and trucks. If you are hit by a car or other vehicle in California, it is very important to obey vehicle laws and not pedestrian laws when riding.

Bicyclists should always ride with traffic, use bike lanes when provided, and utilize applicable vehicle laws, such as stop signs and turning signals. Pedestrians have the right of way in most situations involving automobiles or other vehicles.

The two largest causes and approximately one-fourth of accidents between cars and bicycles in Southern California are riding against traffic and riding on the sidewalk. When turning at an intersection, bicycle riders on the sidewalk are almost invisible to vehicles. Additionally, cars entering or leaving driveways are typically not expecting a bicyclist on the sidewalk.

Bicycle accidents can be very trick. Collision lawyers are aware that timing is significant when obtaining a fair settlement. Do not settle your case without first consulting an accident lawyer.

Jeffrey Dawson has experience dealing with insurance companies and reaching acceptable settlements. He’s prepared to properly advise bicycle accident victims and help get the settlement they deserve.