Actions to take following a bicycle accident in california

\No matter how cautious you are, the odds are against you while riding a bicycle in California because there are many more cars than two-wheelers. At some point, you or another cyclist might be involved in a collision with a vehicle. How well you defend your rights—or the rights of a companion who might be seriously injured—in the aftermath can depend on what you do immediately after the incident. You can keep control of the situation by using the checklist below. Avoid negotiating with the motorist.

Even if the driver acknowledges responsibility and apologizes, don't bargain with them. The degree of your injuries and the damage to your bike may not be fully apparent to you, and the driver may later change their mind and deny the collision.

Wait for the police

If injuries, fatalities, or property damage are involved, you and the other driver must stay at the site. Wait for the police to show up, even if you don't think you were hurt. If you leave the scene, it might be impossible to find the driver, or you may implicate yourself.

Document the happenings

Every aspect of the car accident, including the weather, traffic, road conditions, time, place, and manner in which it occurred, is important. Please record everything as quickly as possible. Make maps or diagrams illustrating the locations and movements of all the parties and mention any applicable streets, signage, and traffic signals. Take pictures of the scene, the victims' injuries, and the involved vehicle(s) if you have a phone with a camera.

Also, exchange the following details with the driver: name, address, phone number, license plate number, make of the automobile, and insurance policy number. Obtaining Witness Contact Information is also advisable as it may come in handy to prove any claims.

Give the officer your statement.

Sometimes, police are more interested in documenting a driver's account than a cyclist's. Make sure the report includes your account of what happened. No matter how tiny a wound may seem, always report it (it may develop into something major later on). If your statement is not included in the report when it is written, you can ask to have it changed after the fact. Obtain the accident report number and note it down.

Seek medical attention

Even if your wounds are slight, see a doctor immediately and request a documented assessment. Take pictures of any injuries, and note any symptoms following the accident.

Seek the counsel of a lawyer

Contacting your insurance provider before speaking with an experienced bicycle accident lawyer is not advisable. Remember that the insurance firm can use anything you say against you. A lawyer can act as your advocate while negotiating with insurance providers. Retain a bicycle accident specialist to look into the incident and, if necessary, represent you in court.

The bottom line

It is always in your best welfare to take the right steps after a bicycle accident to protect your rights.