With a massive increase in recreational riding, cycling has become increasingly popular over the past 20 years.

Many people concerned about the environment have taken to cycling to and from work.

With so many people taking to cycling in the US, there is no surprise that there are ever-increasing accidents between cyclists and motor vehicles.

In 2017 the number of cyclists riders in the US was 47.5 million.

 In addition, the recent lockdowns and Covid19 pandemic have seen a sharp rise in bicycle sales to the point that there is a significant shortage of bicycles in the country.

In an accident between a bicycle and any vehicle, damage to the cyclist will always be far more severe than damage to the car’s driver.

If you have ever been involved in a bicycle accident that was not your fault, you may have a legal compensation claim.

Learn more about whether you have a bodily injury claim after a bicycle accident injury.

Let’s look together at what you need to do immediately after an accident with a motor vehicle to protect your interests should a legal claim arise.

What To Do At The Accident Scene

 Cyclists almost always come off worse than the drivers and occupants of the vehicle do.

You will probably at least have some scrapes and bruises from the accident. You may even be seriously injured and need medical treatment and hospitalization.

The most important thing to do is to assess your injuries. If you require medical attention, attend to that first by either calling on your cell phone or asking someone who is in a position to call to do so for you.

You will be in shock and have adrenaline coursing through your system. This can mask the pain from your injuries.

Keep your cool, and do not be aggressive with the other driver, even if they were entirely at fault.

Mistakes happen, and aggression will only exacerbate the situation.

Make sure that the traffic police attend to the accident.

Provide your statement to the police but be careful not to admit fault. This is important even if you feel that you were wholly or partially to blame.

Try to collect evidence at the scene of the accident. Use your cell phone to take pictures and videos and record dictation notes.

Swap contact, insurance and vehicle information with the other driver.

Try to get statements from any bystanders, especially if they state that you were in the right.

After the accident, attend the emergency ward of your hospital, even if you do not feel you have sustained any serious injuries. Ask for a thorough checkup.

When and Why You Should Appoint an Attorney to Represent You

Suppose you have suffered significant injuries, and the driver could have been at fault.

In that case, you should see a specialized and experienced bicycle accident personal injury lawyer as soon as possible after the accident.

Your attorney will be able to assess the strength of your claim and advise whether you should launch a personal injury lawsuit.

An attorney is invaluable in dealing with the various insurance company representatives and lawyers, leaving you to concentrate on getting well.

You could handle the matter yourself. However, personal injury law is complex and requires knowledge of the law, medical procedures and superb negotiating skills.

If you want to maximize your chances for a reasonable settlement, appoint an attorney.

In Summary

You deserve to be compensated for harm suffered due to a driver knocking you off your bicycle.

See a lawyer to assess whether you have a legitimate claim as soon as possible.