What to Do if You're Hit by a Car While Riding Your Bicycle

Cycling is a popular and environmentally friendly mode of transportation, especially in a bike-friendly state like Washington. Unfortunately, with the rise in cycling comes the increased risk of accidents. If you’re involved in a bicycle accident where a car hits you, it’s essential to know what steps to take to protect your rights and secure your safety. As Jeffrey S. Floyd & Associates, PLLC, a firm experienced in handling personal injury cases in Washington, we want to guide you through the critical actions you should take following a bicycle accident.

1. Ensure Your Safety and Seek Medical Attention: The first thing you need to do after a bicycle accident is to prioritize your safety. If you're able, move out of the roadway to avoid further harm. It’s important to assess your injuries and immediately seek medical attention, even if you feel fine at the moment. Some injuries, like concussions or internal injuries, may not be apparent right away but can become serious over time.

Washington State law requires drivers to stop at the scene of an accident, and this applies whether you’re in a car or on a bicycle. If the driver does not stop, this could be considered a hit-and-run, which is a criminal offense. In cases like this, it’s vital to have a Bicycle Accident Lawyer who can assist in tracking down the driver and holding them accountable for their negligence.

2. Call the Police and File a Report: No matter how minor the accident may seem, it is crucial to contact the police. An official police report will document the details of the incident and provide a valuable piece of evidence should you need to file a claim later. In Washington, bicycle accidents must be reported if they involve injury, death, or property damage.

The police will gather information from both you and the driver involved, including insurance details. If there are any witnesses to the accident, make sure their statements are included in the report. This police report can be a critical component in any case a Bicycle Accident Attorney may build on your behalf, helping establish the driver’s liability and supporting your claim for damages.

3. Collect Evidence: If you're physically able to do so, collecting evidence at the scene is a crucial step in protecting your claim. Take photographs of the accident scene, your bicycle, the vehicle involved, and any visible injuries you sustained. Also, record the driver’s license plate number, make and model of the vehicle, and any other identifying information.

In some cases, accident liability may not be immediately clear, which is where experienced legal representation comes into play. A Bicycle Injury Lawyer can use this evidence to build a solid case that proves the driver’s negligence. Washington’s comparative negligence laws allow cyclists to recover damages even if they were partially at fault, so gathering clear and comprehensive evidence is vital.

4. Seek Legal Advice from a Bicycle Accident Attorney: Navigating the aftermath of a bicycle accident can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with medical bills, lost wages, and insurance companies. Seeking legal counsel as soon as possible can make all the difference. An experienced Bicycle Accident Lawyer at Jeffrey S. Floyd & Associates, PLLC can review your case, guide you through the legal process, and ensure that your rights are fully protected.

Washington is a fault-based state when it comes to vehicle accidents, which means the at-fault driver’s insurance is responsible for compensating the injured party. Unfortunately, insurance companies may attempt to downplay your injuries or the extent of the accident to reduce payouts. Having a seasoned Bicycle Accident Attorney on your side ensures you’re not taken advantage of and that you receive the compensation you deserve for your medical costs, pain and suffering, and any long-term effects of the accident.

5. Keep a Record of Your Medical Treatment: Your medical records will be one of the most important pieces of evidence when filing a personal injury claim. After the accident, keep detailed records of all medical treatment you receive, including doctor visits, hospital stays, prescriptions, and therapy. These records help to substantiate the full extent of your injuries and your need for compensation.

In Washington, you typically have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, it’s crucial to start the process early with the help of a Bicycle Injury Lawyer, as gathering the necessary documentation and evidence can take time. Acting swiftly ensures that your claim is filed within the statute of limitations and strengthens your case.

6. Be Cautious When Speaking to Insurance Adjusters: After a bicycle accident, you may be contacted by the driver’s insurance company. While it may seem like they’re trying to help, their goal is often to minimize the amount of money they pay out. It’s best to avoid speaking to insurance adjusters without first consulting with your Bicycle Accident Lawyer. They might use your statements against you to deny or undervalue your claim.

Your attorney can communicate with the insurance company on your behalf and negotiate a fair settlement that accounts for the full scope of your injuries and losses. Washington law entitles you to recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. A legal expert like Jeffrey S. Floyd & Associates, PLLC will ensure that you are fairly compensated for your injuries.

Being hit by a car while riding your bicycle is a traumatic experience, but knowing the proper steps to take can help you protect your legal rights and secure the compensation you deserve. From ensuring your safety and gathering evidence to filing a police report and consulting with a Bicycle Accident Attorney, every step is crucial to building a strong case.

If you're ever in this unfortunate situation, reach out to Jeffrey S. Floyd & Associates, PLLC for personalized, expert legal assistance. With extensive experience in Washington personal injury law, we are committed to helping injured cyclists recover from their accidents and get the justice they deserve.

If you've been involved in a bicycle accident, don't face the aftermath alone. Reach out to our experienced Bicycle Accident Lawyers to get the legal support you need. Call us today for a free consultation!

References: 

Washington State Legislature - Accident Reporting Requirements

Washington State Legislature - Comparative Negligence Law

Washington State Legislature - Statute of Limitations for Personal Injury