Cycling is a great way to reduce your environmental impact while simultaneously getting in some physical activity. If your ride alongside moving traffic, however, you run the risk of getting seriously hurt in a bicycle accident.
Despite the measures that municipalities take to keep riders safe, like creating designated bike lanes, devastating crashes still can—and do—occur. Thankfully, if you were injured in a bicycle accident through no fault of your own, you may be entitled to funds for the associated damages.
Before you can secure any available compensation, however, you must put together a compelling claim. Should you be wondering what this entails, read on. Here are a few dos and don’ts for getting started:
1. Do Seek Prompt Medical Attention After the Bicycle Accident
Even if you were able to walk away from the scene, you should visit a doctor as soon as possible. You may have sustained serious injuries that simply have latent symptoms. Consequently, you could suffer serious complications if you don’t seek prompt care.
2. Don’t Give the Claims Adjuster a Recorded Statement
At some point during their investigation, the claims adjuster will probably reach out and ask you for a formal statement. Since saying anything on record is up for scrutiny however, it’s best to refrain from doing so. If they’re especially persistent, you can cease all direct correspondence with them by referring them to your legal team.
3. Do Start Writing Daily Journal Entries
As soon as possible after the accident, start keeping a journal. Daily entries that explain how your injuries are hurting your quality of life will prove invaluable when it comes time to demonstrate non-economic damages. They will also help contextualize your medical records, so you can pursue the maximum payout possible.
4. Don’t Accept a Premature Settlement
It will be tempting to accept fast cash, especially as you watch your medical bills, lost wages, and other associated damages mount. There’s no way to be sure of the extent of your losses, however, until you’ve reached maximum medical improvement. Even if an early offer seems fair, at least run the terms by your legal team before accepting it.
Call (562) 206-1939 to Discuss Your Case with a Long Beach Bicycle Accident Attorney
Your Injuries Are Personal to Me
If you were seriously hurt in a bicycle accident and you want to take action against the reckless driver who struck you, turn to the Law Office of Michael D. Waks. A top-rated trial lawyer, Michael D. Waks is proud to advocate for those who have been wronged by others. To schedule your free initial case review with this Long Beach bicycle accident lawyer, call (562) 206-1939 or fill out the Contact Form on his website.
Download Our Accident Emergency Response .PDF
If you ever find yourself in another bicycle accident, recording the scene before leaving the area will give your subsequent claim the best chance of success. To ensure you don’t overlook any pertinent details, print a copy of our Accident Emergency Response .pdf, and keep it in one of your saddlebags to refer to as needed. Download it HERE for free.