What to do if you’re involved in a Bike Accident in Los Angeles

In a city renowned for its legendary traffic, it is understandable that some would opt for bicycles as a way of escape. In fact, the city encourages it; the Council of Los Angeles Board of Supervisors approved a Bicycle Master Plan aimed at promoting bike ridership among users of all ages. The plan also proposed over 800 miles of new bikeways throughout LA County. But an increase in bike traffic also meant a spike in bike accidents.

Traffic accident experts have noted that most drivers typically pay little to no attention to bike riders. Instead, their attention is focused on traffic lights, other motorists, and electronic gadgets such as cellphones. In addition to the poorly-maintained roads, narrow bike lanes and traffic congestion, LA is notorious for its unaccommodating and hostile drivers. The result is bicycle accidents that lead to life-changing injuries or even death.

Every day in Los Angeles, the safety of cyclists is put at risk by a lack of attentiveness by drivers, poor bike lanes, unsafe road conditions, and other infrastructural problems. If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident here’s what you should do:

1. Move to a safe place

To avoid another mishap, make sure you get off the road (if you can), then call 911 immediately. If you’re unable to move due to your injuries, call 911 and have the emergency medics move you.

2. Never leave the scene of the accident

While you may be tempted to leave the scene especially if you believe you have minimal injuries, don’t. Leaving the scene increases the chances that the other driver could get away with his actions. Leaving the scene of the accident also makes it harder for accident investigators to assess the scene and determine what really happened.

3. File a report

Sometimes the police fail to get an accurate account of what transpired. This is because, in some instances, they will only speak to one party (especially if you’re injured, are unconscious or in too much pain to speak). That can be detrimental to your case since their report will only feature one side of the story. In order to have an accurate representation of what truly transpired, you must ensure that your version of events is also included in the police’s accident report. If unable to do this, ask for assistance.

4. Avoid negotiating with the other party

Immediately after an accident, avoid the temptation of getting into a long, drawn-out conversation with the other motorist. Instead, get their information (full name, driver license number, phone number, and insurance info). If you are unable to do this due to your injuries, ask for help. If there are witnesses present during the accident, get their information as well.

5. Take good pictures of the accident scene

Immediately following the accident, take good pictures of the scene, the vehicle/s involved, the damage to your bike, and your injuries. These images will be valuable when you begin engaging in a bicycle accident lawyer.

6. Make good notes of what happened

If you are able to, take good notes of what transpired. This is because you may be called to recount your version of events in the days to come and the narrative needs to remains consistent. This will help your case.

7. Seek a competent bicycle accident lawyer in Los Angeles

In order to ensure you get adequate compensation for your injuries, loss of property and inconvenience, you need to contact a good bike accident attorney in Los Angeles. They can represent you in a lawsuit, work with the pertinent insurance companies, and advise you on subsequent steps.