What should I do if I have a Bicycle Injury, and it’s someone’s fault?

If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident and it’s someone else’s fault, there are certain steps you should take to protect your health and legal rights. As a personal injury attorney, I recommend the following:

Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Safety is paramount. If you are injured, seek medical attention immediately, regardless of how minor the injuries may appear. Some injuries may not manifest symptoms immediately and could worsen over time if left untreated.
Contact Law Enforcement: Notify the police immediately following the accident. An official police report will provide an objective record of the incident, which can be crucial evidence in any ensuing legal proceedings.
Gather Information: Collect as much information as possible from the scene. This should include the other party’s name, contact information, insurance details, vehicle registration, and license number. Also, note down the exact location, time, and the conditions in which the accident occurred.
Document the Accident: Take photos of your injuries, any damage to your bicycle, the other party’s vehicle, and the overall accident scene. If there were any witnesses, try to get their contact information as well.
Don’t Admit Fault: Even if you feel you may have been partially at fault, refrain from admitting or discussing this at the accident scene. Your statements could be used against you in any subsequent legal action.
Preserve Evidence: Keep your damaged bicycle and any other damaged property in the same state as after the accident. They can be important pieces of evidence.
Document Your Injuries and Medical Treatment: Keep a detailed record of your medical treatments, doctors’ visits, medications, and any other related expenses. Also, document how your injuries have impacted your daily life.
Contact a Personal Injury Attorney: Consult with a personal injury attorney as soon as possible. They can help you understand your rights, guide you through the legal process, and advocate for your interests when dealing with insurance companies or in court.

It’s important to remember that these are general guidelines and the best course of action may vary depending on the specific circumstances of your case. Therefore, it’s advisable to consult with a personal injury attorney to get advice tailored to your unique situation.

What injuries can you get from a bike crash?

Bicycle accidents can result in a variety of injuries, ranging from minor cuts and scrapes to severe and life-altering traumas. Here are some common injuries that can occur in a bike crash:

Head Injuries: These can range from minor concussions to severe traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Cyclists are particularly susceptible to head injuries, which can occur even if a helmet is worn, although helmets significantly reduce the risk and severity.
Facial Injuries: Falls from a bicycle can result in facial injuries, such as lacerations, fractures, dental injuries, or serious eye injuries.
Neck and Spinal Cord Injuries: These can lead to serious conditions like paralysis and are often caused by the impact of a cyclist’s body with a vehicle or the ground.
Fractures: Broken bones are common in bike accidents, especially in the wrists, arms, and clavicle, as cyclists often put their hands out to break their fall. Leg and hip fractures can also occur, particularly in collisions with motor vehicles.
Dislocations: High-impact crashes can cause joints to dislocate, most commonly the shoulders, elbows, and knees.
Abrasion Injuries or “Road Rash”: Sliding across pavement can result in painful scrapes and abrasions. In severe cases, road rash can cause nerve damage or require skin grafting.
Internal Injuries: These can include damage to organs, internal bleeding, and other potentially life-threatening conditions.
Psychological Injuries: Beyond physical harm, a bike accident can also lead to psychological trauma, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression.

It’s important to seek immediate medical attention after a bicycle accident, even if injuries seem minor at first. Some injuries may not present symptoms immediately but can become serious or life-threatening if not promptly treated. Additionally, medical records documenting your injuries can be crucial if you decide to pursue a legal claim related to the accident.