Bicycle accidents can result in serious injuries for the bicyclists. And many individuals also face psychological trauma and maybe even permanent physical impairment. In this blog, Robert C. Slim, as a Fort Worth bicycle accident lawyer provides clients with the following important steps that cyclists should follow to preserve their safety and legal rights after an accident.
5 Tips from Fort Worth Bicycle Accident Lawyer You Must Follow
1. Get Medical Attention
Immediately after a bicycle crash, the foremost thing is to prioritize your health. Be that as it may, serious injury, although maskable by injection of adrenaline, and other forms of injuries may not be detectable right away.
Call an ambulance and make sure to get immediate medical assistance. Do not, try to move until the paramedics arrive and assess your condition.
2. Call 911 and have the Police Prepare a Report.
Understanding the importance of the police report is utmost. Tell the investigating officer your version of the events in clear and simple terms. Try not to be argumentative or apportion blame. The police officer will investigate the crash while at the scene and provide a report of the officer’s findings and conclusions. A Fort Worth bicycle accident lawyer such as Robert C. Slim will use the report as evidence to support your claim when the time arises.
3. Gather Evidence at the Scene
Securing evidence could be key in strengthening your case. If you have a chance, follow these next steps:
- Photographs: Take snapshots of your bike, the other car, road conditions, as well as your visible injuries.
- Obtain Witnesses’ Information: Should someone have witnessed the accident, kindly ask for their contact information since their testimony would help strengthen your case.
- Notate Important Details: You will want to have as much detail as possible about the time, date, nature of the weather, and other contributing factors to the accident.
4. Information Exchange with the Driver
Make sure that you have the other driver’s name, address, telephone number, driver’s license number, and insurance details of the driver.
While it may be difficult to hold back, you must resist being argumentative or combative with the other driver. This is because anything said by you could be taken against you at a later time or even raised in court.
4. Seek the Help of an Accident Lawyer
After seeking any necessary emergency medical care, the next important thing to do is to call and consult with an experienced bicycle accident attorney. A Fort Worth bike accident attorney like Robert C. Slim can help you:
- Analyze your case and determine the best legal strategy.
- Gather evidence and prepare your claim.
- Negotiate insurance companies to leverage fair compensation.
- Represent you in the court, if necessary.
Conclusion
Bicycle accidents are increasing throughout the USA. In 2022, 1084 bicyclists were killed by colliding with a motor vehicle. By wearing a helmet, a bicyclist can decrease the risk of a serious injury or fatality by almost 60%. However, if you already have been a victim of this dreadful scenario, it’s your right to ask for compensation that can cover your medical bills, and the cost of skipping work because of the accident. Contact Robert C. Slim, a Fort Worth bicycle accident lawyer, who can protect your rights.