What Should You Do After a Bicycle Accident? Could You Be Held Liable For It

What Should You Do After a Bicycle Accident:  No one desires to be embroiled in a bicycle collision. Unfortunately, bicycle accidents can occur regardless of how cautious you are. The physical agony and emotional trauma you experience immediately following the accident can impair your ability to think rationally.

Although bicycle collisions can be a jarring experience, it is essential to know what to do at the scene and immediately after. It will affect how well you defend your rights and how much compensation you receive for your injuries. This guide will assist you in navigating the aftermath of bicycle collisions and outline what to do.

What Kinds of Bicycle Accidents Are Common?

Bicycle accidents can take various forms. It encompasses situations in which a cyclist rides against opposing traffic. Right cross collisions occur when a vehicle turns out of a driveway or side street from the right side of a cyclist who is traveling with traffic on the right side of the road.

When a cyclist is traveling with the flow of traffic and an inbound vehicle makes a left turn, or when the cyclist fails to apply the brakes properly when approaching a vehicle from behind at a red light or stop sign, an accident can occur. In addition, a collision may occur if a motorist passes a bicyclist on the left or if the driver’s left-side door is opened as a bicyclist passes.

Physical Injuries from Bicycle Accidents

Bicycle accidents can cause grave, long-term injuries that can substantially impact the victim’s life. You could sustain the following injuries:

• Torn muscles and sprains – These injuries may not be life-threatening, but it is still advisable to have the aching muscles checked by a medical professional because some injuries require therapy.
• Broken bones– This type of injury can range from minor fractures to major breaks requiring medical intervention.
• Head trauma–Victims suffering from head trauma may experience concussion-like symptoms, like dizziness and headaches.
• Spinal cord injury–This injury warrants serious medical attention because it can lead to loss of other bodily functions or paralysis if left unchecked.
• Internal organ injuries–They also require immediate medical attention. These injuries may restrict the victim for a long time.
• Internal bleeding–This injury poses significant dangers, including organ failure and seizure. That’s why it’s important to seek medical attention even in the absence of visible blood after the accident.
• Psychological Trauma From Bicycle Accidents

The effects of a bicycle tragedy can extend well beyond physical injuries. Depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) are some of the psychological consequences that can result from bicycle accidents.

Those with psychological trauma have access to a variety of treatment options. You may be required to undertake therapy or take medication. Continual treatment can frequently become expensive.

Legal Considerations

The laws of Chicago are intended to protect you in the event of a bicycle accident. If a driver was careless, you can file a personal injury claim to recover your losses. In the event of a fatal bicycle collision, surviving family members can file a wrongful death claim with the assistance of an experienced attorney.

Bicycle accident victims in Illinois have two years from the date of the accident to file a claim for financial compensation. You can seek compensation for both economic and non-economic damages.

The quantity you can receive will vary based on several variables. These include the cost of your medical expenses, the severity of your injuries, the impact the accident had on your life, and the amount of insurance coverage the responsible party carries at the time of the accident or crash.

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What Should You Do After a Bicycle Accident?

Frequently, the aftermath of a bicycle collision is chaotic. Nevertheless, it is essential to take the appropriate measures to secure the safety and rights of a person.

Prioritize Medical Treatment

You must seek medical attention following the accident, even if you do not believe your injuries are severe. Some injuries can be asymptomatic and, if left untreated, can lead to complications. In order to file a claim, you will also need proof of injuries or medical treatment.

Notify Your Insurance Company

If you are covered by your auto or homeowner’s insurance, you should immediately notify your insurance provider about the bicycle accident. They are likely to ask numerous inquiries; however, you must avoid speculation and stick to the facts.

Document Your Loss

Documenting your losses will aid you in obtaining the compensation you are entitled to. Formally known as damages, losses are divided into two primary categories: economic and non-economic. Economic damages refer to the monetary losses incurred as a result of a catastrophe. It can include past and future medical expenses, diminished earning capacity, and wages lost due to missed work.

On the other hand, non-economic damages encompass intangible losses a person endured due to a bicycle accident. It can include both physical and emotional anguish. It can be difficult to quantify non-economic damages in monetary terms. A bicycle accident attorney can help you determine the complete extent of your non-economic losses.

Consult a Personal Injury Lawyer

Calculating and proving the value of your case and engaging in negotiations can be intimidating, particularly if you are still recuperating from injuries. A qualified attorney can manage all aspects of your claim, allowing you to recover and focus on your health and well-being.

Can You Be Held Liable for a Bicycle Accident You Caused?

In addition to having legal rights while pedaling a bicycle in Chicago, you also have legal responsibilities. You are always expected to follow the road state laws.

When a lawsuit is filed, an investigation will be conducted. Even if you are injured in the accident, you may still be partially responsible for it. Based on the modified comparative negligence rule, your degree of fault will impact the quantity of compensation you can receive.

Note, however, that neither the insurance adjuster nor the police officer can determine who is at responsibility for the accident by writing the report.