A bicycle accident can happen in a split second, leaving a rider shocked, confused, and injured. In the United States, more than 130,000 cyclists suffer injuries each year, and over 1,000 lose their lives in crashes.
Acting fast after an accident is critical. Delays can harm a rider’s health, weaken legal claims, and reduce the chances of fair compensation.
Bicycle accidents are a growing problem in Van Nuys, California, where heavy traffic and reckless drivers put cyclists at risk. Many riders struggle to get fair treatment from insurance companies after a crash.
A bicycle accident attorney in Van Nuys can help injured cyclists understand their rights and fight for the compensation they deserve.
Here are some reasons why bicycle accident victims must act immediately after an accident.
Ensuring Your Safety and Health First
The first and most important step after an accident is checking for injuries. Even if there are no visible wounds, internal injuries can be severe. Head trauma, internal bleeding, and fractures may not show symptoms right away. Calling 911 ensures that emergency medical professionals arrive quickly.
A common mistake many cyclists make is refusing medical care because they feel fine. Adrenaline can mask pain, and injuries can worsen without treatment. Seeing a doctor as soon as possible helps in recovery and legal matters. Medical records can serve as crucial evidence if an insurance claim or lawsuit follows.
Preserving Critical Evidence
Evidence fades quickly after an accident. A cyclist should document everything at the scene, including photos of injuries, the damaged bicycle, and the surrounding area. Skid marks, broken glass, and street signs can help prove what happened.
Witnesses can also be valuable. If there are bystanders, getting their names and contact information is a good idea. If a legal dispute arises, they can support a cyclist’s events. Additionally, keeping the damaged bike and gear in the same condition after the crash can be physical proof of the accident’s impact.
Notifying Authorities and Insurance Companies
Another critical step is reporting the accident to the police. A police report provides an official record, which can be helpful when dealing with insurance companies. Cyclists should ask for a copy of this report as soon as it is available.
Insurance companies have strict deadlines for filing claims. A delayed report can give them an excuse to deny or reduce a payout. The at-fault driver’s insurer may also attempt to shift blame. Cyclists should be cautious when speaking to insurance adjusters and avoid admitting fault.
Avoiding Legal and Financial Pitfalls
Delaying action after an accident can have serious consequences. Insurance companies often look for gaps between the accident date and medical treatment to argue that injuries were not severe. Waiting too long can also lead to missed legal deadlines.
California law sets a two-year limit for personal injury claims. The right to compensation may be lost if a claim is not filed in time. The longer a cyclist waits, the harder it becomes to gather substantial evidence.
Seeking Legal Assistance
A lawyer specializing in bicycle accidents can handle insurance negotiations, legal paperwork, and court proceedings. Many cyclists hesitate to seek legal help, but it can make a significant difference in securing compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
An attorney can also protect a cyclist from lowball settlement offers. Insurance companies often try to settle quickly for less than a claim’s worth. A legal professional understands these tactics and can push for a fair outcome.
Conclusion
Acting quickly after a bicycle accident can protect a rider’s health, rights, and finances. Seeking medical attention, preserving evidence, and consulting legal help can make a big difference. Time is a key factor, and waiting too long can lead to challenges in getting the compensation a cyclist deserves.
