How Best to Deal with a Bicycle Accident on the Road

We all try our best to be safe on the road, especially if we are on a bicycle. This mode of transport is convenient and inexpensive, but at the same time, it can leave you vulnerable. Even though you may have the correct safety gear – such as a helmet and knee and elbow pads – riding on a bicycle can still be fraught with danger, and you must be alert and extremely careful. But if you are ever involved in a bike accident, know that you have your rights as a cyclist – particularly if you have sustained an injury or your bike is damaged. But first things first – if you are in a bike accident, it’s crucial to protect yourself, think clearly, and act fast. What else should you do if you are involved in a bike accident? Here’s how best to deal with a bicycle accident on the road.

Check your injuries 

Of course, the first thing you need to do is check yourself for any injuries. Check your body for any signs of injury, such as cuts, bruises, or broken bones. And if you are hurting or are in pain, stay still and avoid moving. If you can move, get off the road (or have another person help you) to avoid getting hit by oncoming traffic.

Call for help

Speaking of help, if you can’t call the authorities for help, ask a passerby to do so. They can dial emergency services on your phone (or call on their phone). Give your location and a brief description of the accident. If the accident was caused by the driver of a car or another vehicle, ask someone to take photos of the scene of the accident for evidence; you can then use this as proof when making a cycle accident claim.

In addition, you should exchange information with the other party involved. Get the person’s name, address, and phone number. If there are witnesses, ask for their contact information. This information will be important later on when you file your claim.

Document the accident 

As mentioned, take pictures of the accident scene, the bike, and your injuries. These pictures will be evidence if you need to take legal action. Make sure to get pictures of the other party’s vehicle and any damage caused by the accident.

Report it 

You should also report the accident to the police, even if it’s minor. The police report will also serve as evidence, and make sure to get a copy!

Seek medical attention 

Even if your injuries are minor and you don’t think you are seriously injured, seek medical attention as soon as possible. Remember that some injuries may not show up immediately, and delaying treatment can worsen them. It’s also important to have your injuries documented by a medical professional and keep any receipts and prescriptions issued to you, aside from the medical records.

Get in touch with your insurance company

Get in touch with your insurance company and report the accident. You must provide them with all the information you gathered at the scene, including pictures taken and the police report. Your insurance company will guide you through the claims process and get your bike and injuries taken care of; you can also speak with a personal injury solicitor to get a clearer idea of what you can do to claim compensation.