At The Moore Law Firm, we hope that you never have to use this information as bike collisions involving a motor vehicle can lead to severe injury or death. We understand not everyone can be so lucky, which is why we’ve provided the following information on what to do if you are involved in a car crash.
1. Don’t Get Up
We understand the inclination to “walk it off” after an injury, but studies have shown the adrenaline our body releases after a crash can cause us to not feel the extent of our injuries. Getting up could cause further injury. If you were knocked off your bike, the best course of action is to remain where you are. Take an assessment of your current status. Ask yourself, what am I able to move? If you are experiencing any neck pain or numbness in any of your limbs, its best to wait for an ambulance before attempting to move from your position.
2. Document Everything
If you are able to move after your injuries, take out your phone and immediately hit Record video. We’ve heard countless stories of people changing their story after the fact so they are not completely at fault for the accident. Recording the incident provides an unalterable, unbiased account of the event which can eliminate the time consuming “He said, she said” game. In addition to recording the event, collect the same information you would gather if you were in a car accident.
- Driver’s License
- Insurance
- Phone Numbers
- License Plate number
Also, it’s always a good idea to contact the police after an accident regardless of whether or not everyone is alright. Police are required to investigate and document the scene and their report from the crash is a document your Cincinnati injury lawyer can access to use as evidence in your case.
3. Head to the Doctor
If you were unable to get up, make sure you contact an ambulance immediately. If you are like many cyclists and cycle with a friend, make sure you and your friend discuss any emergency procedures like calling an ambulance before you head out on your ride. If you were well enough to get up from the incident, you should still head to your doctor as soon as possible. As we mentioned above, our bodies sometimes trick us into thinking we’re alright by releasing adrenaline. In some cases, clients have reported not realizing the full extent of their injuries until a few days after the incident.
4. Contact a Cincinnati Injury Lawyer
Lastly, if you were injured while riding by a negligent driver, you could be eligible to receive compensation for your injuries. Many cycling crash injuries result in severe, life-altering injuries or death. If you were rendered unable to work, or if you are a family member who lost your loved one as a result of a biking accident, our Cincinnati injury attorneys are ready to help you find justice.
Schedule your free consultation today. Call (513) 232-2000 now.
If you have been injured or have lost a loved one as a result of another person's negligence, you deserve to be fully compensated for your losses. The simple fact is that you should not be forced to pay the price for another person's careless or reckless actions.