Bicycle lawyers, like the team at Kass & Moses, have experience representing many injured cyclists. As a result of over 25 years of practice, here’s what we believe you should know following a bicycle crash. Note I say crash, as the word accident implies that it was a mistake. Let’s be perfectly clear: many bicycle crashes could be avoided had the car driver simply been more attentive.
Bicycle lawyers believe you should:
- Seek medical attention. Even if you do not feel your injuries are very severe, keep in mind that concussions and head injuries are very common in bicycle accidents. Even if you were wearing a helmet, these concussions can occur, and may not be evident immediately after the crash. It’s always best to see a doctor for a full assessment as soon as possible after a crash. Do not assume that your injuries are minor. Too often, cyclists fail to seek treatment initially after the crash. They take the macho approach and power on. But we are all human and the pain WILL catch up with you. Even if it has been a few days or weeks after the crash, take the time and visit a physician for appropriate medical treatment. Every good accident attorney knows you should not neglect your injuries.
- Take photographs, get names and contact information, and if possible, get a police report. Take a moment at the scene of the crash to take some photos of your accident. Photograph any causative factors, as well as any damages. This includes damages to your bike, any paint scrapes, and the car that was involved, if it applies. It’s always good to photograph the license plate, as well, just in case. If you have any degree of injuries, we recommend you contact the police so that you have a concrete report of the crash. Also, make your own notes regarding just what happened. After a crash, you experience a tremendous adrenaline rush and your memories might seem very vivid. But those memories can change and be altered with the course of time. And just because the driver admits fault or seems to accept responsibility at the scene of the crash, that does not mean they will be so willing to take the blame once they speak with their insurance agent. It is always best to retain as much information about the crash as possible when it occurs.
- Do not sign or agree to anything the insurance company offers. Often, insurance settlement offers are very low and may not even be enough to cover your medical expenses. Never sign or accept an offer without first speaking to a bicycle lawyer. Also, be careful of anything you say to the insurance adjuster. Remember that they are experienced in negotiations and will try to limit your settlement. The offer from the insurance company is generally viewed as a bare-bones offer, made in order to get you to settle your case so that you cannot pursue them for further money. But what if your injuries result in lost pay? What happens if your medical insurance does not cover the costs of all your treatment? These things often occur in cases of physical therapy, where you doctor may order more visits with the therapy provider than your insurance will cover. And, of course, we must take into consideration your pain and suffering, as well. No one asks to be hurt in a crash, and we believe that injured cyclists should be made whole.
- Contact an experienced bicycle lawyer as soon as possible. It’s best to get a bike lawyer on your side as soon as possible after your bike crash. The initial days and weeks can be very challenging, as you deal with injuries and the aftermath of the incident. That’s why it is important to have a lawyer on your side, to help you deal with the repercussions. Bicycle laws are often complicated and can make it difficult for the cyclist to defend their case with the insurance company. An experienced bicycle lawyer knows the laws thoroughly and can use them to turn the case in your favor.
Bike law cases are notoriously difficult to represent. Insurance adjusters are eager to get hurt cyclists to accept the minimum amount of money to settle their case. But what if this is not even enough to cover your basic medical bills? Do not got it alone. Whether you have severe road rash, broken bones, or head injuries, it pays to have an experienced professional representing you. And remember that at the bike attorneys at the Law Firm of Kass & Moses, we do not get paid unless you win your case. So whether you have been hit by a car or injured in a bicycle crash due to poor infrastructure, contact us and learn more about the options available to you.
For a free legal consultation,
call 1-844-242-9253
Contact the bicycling attorneys at the Law Firm of Kass & Moses for a no obligation, free consultation. When you call, you will speak with a bicycle lawyer who will ask you questions about your crash. We will listen and provide an assessment of your bike accident case. If we believe we can help you, we will discuss the next steps. Even if we cannot personally help you, we can offer ideas to help you proceed. Call today to learn more!
Call or text 1-844-242-9253 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
