6 Next Steps if You’re Involved in a Bicycle Accident
6 Things You Should Do When Involved in a Bicycle Accident
With a yearly increase of about 54 miles of bike lanes since 2007, it is fair to say that New York City is a very bike-friendly city. While the number of cyclists has increased, the number of cyclists killed or severely injured has dramatically decreased. According to a paper released by the National Association of City Transportation Officials in 2016, this finding is a direct correlation to the safety measures resulting from additional and safer bike lanes for riders. While true, cyclists are still prone to sustain severe injuries in the city’s streets.
What should you do after a bike accident?
Safety First. If you are not severely injured, quickly move to safety to avoid further danger or injury. But if you are in pain and cannot move, get someone’s attention and have them call for an ambulance. You will want to get to a hospital for quick medical attention.
Call the Police
It is crucial to document the facts of the accident and report the accident as soon as possible in order to file a claim later.
Photograph the Accident Scene
If possible, you should document and preserve evidence by taking photographs. These images will help support your account of the events leading up to the accident and even shed clues as to who was at fault. Pictures of the accident scene, street signs, damage to any cars or other property, and injuries will come in handy later.
Secure Witnesses
In a busy city like New York, it is very likely that at least one person witnessed the accident. If you can’t gather witness information immediately, work with someone to help you. The information a witness can provide will support your case.
Exchange Contact Info with the Other Party
You need to take down the following information of anyone involved:
- Names
- Address
- Phone Number
- Vehicle Registration
- License Plate
- Driver’s License Number
- Make, Model, Color of Vehicles
- Insurance Info
If you are injured in a bicycle accident and are in need of a New York Bicycle Accident Attorney, at the Law Offices of Stuart M. Kerner, we have great experience in assessing personal injuries and their causes including bicycle accident cases. If you’d like a legal opinion on the value of your potential personal injury or have a question about your rights, contact my office at (718) 796-7900 or schedule a Free Consultation online so we can evaluate your personal injury case.
