George K.
Whether you like it or not, in most cases having a bicycle accident is almost inevitable. It does sound a bit discouraging, especially to those who are just getting started, but unfortunately, that’s just a fact. Now, that doesn’t mean that you should continuously be negative about it, but rather focus on riding which will increase your chance of avoiding any crash. If you’ve never been in a bicycle accident then you probably have no idea what to do in case something like this occurs.
There are some things that need to be done that can help you overcome this as quickly as possible. Therefore, if you find yourself on the ground, incorporate these helpful and practical tips.
What You Should Do Immediately?
Go to ER
As soon as the accident occurs, instantly seek medical attention. Do not joke with this, especially if you’re not feeling well. Going to the ER is a must in any situation of this kind. Once you arrive there, tell the doctor what’s wrong with you. Do not leave out any detail!
This is important not only because it can save your life and help you feel better, but also because having medical records is proof that you were hurt in a crash and they also showcase the severity of your injuries.
Check Both Yourself And Helmet
Did you maybe hit your head? Sometimes, people hit it, but do not have any recollection of it. If you’re not sure whether it has happened or not, take a look at your helmet and see if there’s any damage.
Now, if you’re feeling a bit dizzy or confused, see if you know your name and date of birth. That could be a problem if you do not know the answers. If you’re alone you might not be aware of your current mental state.
On the other hand, if you’re with someone they will be able to conclude whether you’re okay or not. As we said, pay attention to your helmet and see if it looks unharmed or not. If it does, as soon as you can, replace it with a new one.
Don’t Forget To Do This
Make An Accident Report
It frequently happens that police officers either forget or postpone the writing of an incident report after a crash. Unfortunately, even if you were the one who has called the police, the officer may still not write a police report.
Also, if the officer asks you if you’re doing okay (and you’re not) he or she will think that you haven’t been injured at all and will not write a report. Besides, some of them are not even aware that fixing a bike (in case of damage) is not cheap at all!
That’s why if your bike has even the tiniest damage, or you’ve been injured, request the officer to write an accident report. This report often plays a key role in any claim you potentially make in the future.
Get The Driver’s Name
There is some information that is important for you to have after the collision. Professionals at BestBicycleAccidentLawyer.com think that one of them is the driver’s name. What should you include? Write down the name, insurance information, address, vehicle license number, phone number, and driver’s license number. Now, if you are in the position to take the names and phone numbers of anyone who was a witness, do it.
This could only benefit you. When something like this happens, you have to first and foremost rely on yourself. Be your own advocate. The police officer may try to help you but he/she won’t definitely be thinking of your settlement.
Stay Calm
This is probably one of the most important things to highlight. You’ve been through a lot and it’s completely normal that you’re either feeling lost or confused. You might even run into a person who is willing to help you but at the end of the day, you have to rely on yourself first.
If you’re prone to having panic attacks, make sure to find a way to prevent one. We just hope that whoever comes to help you is not a hysterical person, but rather someone who is able to calm others down when needed.
No one ever plans things like this. People mostly believe that bad things cannot happen to them. Although we wish so, it’s important to incorporate at least one of these strategies, just to get yourself prepared for any potential collision. Generally speaking, riding a bike is entertaining but could be risky, especially if you’re not paying attention.
