What To Do If You Have a Bicycle Accident

It is important to be prepared if a bicycle accident occurs. The checklist below will help you gather the needed information. Physical injury and bike damages are not always immediately evident. Therefore, no matter how minor the accident, you should follow the procedure outlined below. Also, it is important not to be intimidated and to remember that you have rights as a bicyclist, among them the right to share the road with motor vehicles.

Call police. You and the motorist have a legal obligation to remain at the scene of an accident and report to the police an accident that involves any physical or property damage. If you have been knocked off your bike, it is sometimes to your advantage to stay exactly where you are until the police arrive. Getting up quickly may make the motorist more likely to drive away and witnesses less likely to come forward.

Get information from driver. Bicyclists and motorists have a legal obligation to exchange information at the scene of the accident: name, address, phone number, driver's license number, license plate number, make of car, and insurance policy number.

Get names and phone numbers of witnesses. Following an accident, you may be in a state of shock. Witnesses can be helpful in describing the accident, or in helping you record the information you need.

Get accident report number Before the police leave the accident, write down the accident report number

Write down how accident happened Document everything you can remember about the accident. Draw detailed maps or diagrams using arrows to show the position and direction of all vehicles involved. Include the names of streets, traffic signs and lights, the time of day, and the traffic, weather and road conditions.

Seek medical attention Consult a doctor and get a written assessment of any physical injuries. Photograph any visible injuries. Keep any damaged clothing and bike parts. If you intend to receive compensation for damages, avoid having your bike repaired. If you must have it repaired, get a written assessment of the damages and record any repairs required as a result of the accident. Also keep any damaged clothing and bike equipment.