Bicycling is not just a mode of transportation; it’s becoming a way of life for many people as they consider doing their part to protect our planet. Whether commuting to work, running errands, or simply enjoying the outdoors, cyclists, and the need to share the road with them has become part of the fabric of our daily life. As a cyclist though, sharing the road with motor vehicles can sometimes lead to accidents, with cyclists bearing the brunt of the impact. We, at Morris, Downing & Sherred, LLP understand the unique challenges that cyclists face in the event of a collision with a car.
Get Medical Attention
If you’re a lucky cyclist, your injuries are minor or maybe it’s just your bike that is damaged. But it’s often hard to tell what the extent of your injuries are just after the accident. Injuries often appear in the days following an accident and inevitably worsen over time if left untreated. Even if you believe your injuries are minor, it’s critical to see a medical professional immediately after the accident. Some common injuries, such as concussions or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms right away but can have serious long-term consequences if left untreated. It’s also important to establish a medical record of injuries resulting from the accident, should you ultimately need to make a claim for your injuries from the accident.
Document the Scene
If you are physically able to do so, gather as much information as possible at the scene of the accident. Take photos of the scene, yourself if you have any visible injuries, your bike, the other vehicle, and any road conditions or obstructions that may have contributed to the accident. As always in any kind of accident, exchange your contact and insurance information with the other people involved in the accident. It is also important to take a minute and survey the scene and note if there are any traffic cameras that may have caught the incident on camera. This may prove to be useful later. Take a minute to talk to any witnesses present who may have seen what happened at the accident site. The descriptions of the event by other people who witnessed it can be an invaluable support for your claims.
Report the Accident
In New Jersey, any bicycle accident resulting in injury or property damage exceeding $500 must be reported to the police, which is likely all of them, since $500 is a low threshold to meet for property damage to bikes as well as cars. Even if the damage appears minimal, it’s best to err on the side of caution and report the accident promptly. A police report can provide an official record of the incident, which could also be extremely helpful in pursuing your claims.
Get the Right Legal Help from Our Bicycle Accident Attorneys
Dealing with the aftermath of a bicycle-involved vehicle accident can be physically, emotionally, and financially draining. Let our bicycle accident attorneys handle the legal aspects of your case while you focus on your recovery. As advocates for injured cyclists, Morris, Downing & Sherred, LLP is committed to protecting your rights and pursuing the compensation you deserve. With our experience, expertise, and dedication, you can trust us to fight tirelessly on your behalf. Call us 973-383-2700 for a free consultation, we are here to advocate for you every step of the way.
