What to do after a bicycle accident

Bicycles are a great alternative to motor vehicles. Just like any type of transportation, there are issues that can impact rider safety and lead to crashes. Not all bicycle crashes are accidents, nor do they always lead to serious injuries. Yet, it is extremely important for cyclists to understand the dangers they face on the roads and from others and know the proper actions to take in the event of a bicycle accident or injuries. 

Contact the authorities

Contact the authorities immediately after a bicycle accident, especially when there is suspected trauma. Get to a safe location. If possible, do not move away from the scene of the accident. Once the authorities arrive at the scene, they will document the evidence and gather witness information. 

Get medical care

Even if injuries at the scene of the accident seemed minor or were not enough to warrant further treatment follow up care is still crucial. Falling off a bike or having a bicycle accident with a vehicle can lead to serious injuries. Some types of trauma that commonly occurs in bicycle/motor vehicle accidents show up later or increase in severity as time progresses. Delays in getting proper medical care can lead to challenges in getting fair compensation. 

Accident victims should also get names and contact information from all parties at the accident location. They should take photos of the scene and all vehicles and anything they feel is pertinent to their personal injury claim. 

Keep it off social media

The obsession with social media is hard to ignore. As tempting as it may seem to share details about bicycle accidents or injuries with others online, refrain from doing so. Social media activity can affect the outcome of injury claims.