As a cyclist, the last thing that you want to encounter on the road is an accident. Unfortunately, accidents do happen and can leave you injured or even with property damage. That’s why knowing what to do after a crash is critical to ensuring you get the most out of the process.
According to Nevada bicycle laws, the person who causes the accident is responsible for compensating the victim. So, if you suffer injury or property damage from an accident that wasn’t your fault, you could be entitled to compensation. However, before you get a settlement for your losses, you will need to prove that the other person was negligent or careless, and their actions resulted in the damages. To do this, you will need evidence, and sometimes, the backing of an experienced professional, like a lawyer. Here is how you are supposed to handle a bike accident:
Always ride with essentials
By essentials, we mean things like mobile phone, emergency contact, personal identification, and when possible, a pen and paper. Since accidents are never planned for, it is always a good idea to prepare for anything. In the event of a crash, you will need to note down the contact and insurance information of the other person. You will also need to call the police and even take pictures of the accident scene. That’s where the essentials come in handy.
Call the police or ambulance
Your health should always come first. If you are injured, or someone is injured, you should call an ambulance immediately. Other than medical help, the law requires you to call the police to record the accident. But that’s not the only reason to call the authorities – doing so can also help with your case. You’ll need the police report to support your claim.
Do not leave the scene of the accident
Calling the authorities alone isn’t enough. You should stay at the accident scene until the police arrive. You shouldn’t move your bike either – even if it’s in the middle the road. Be sure to file an official report when they arrive. As mentioned earlier, the police report is instrumental as it offers documentation highlighting everything that transpired as well as the identity of witnesses. Whenever possible, you should obtain the officer’s contact details.
Get witness contact details
If you can, talk to the witnesses and obtain their contact details. Witnesses play a critical role in proving that the other person was indeed at fault.
Take photographs
Insurance companies are not always willing to pay up for your losses unless your evidence clearly shows that their client was at fault and that their actions led to your damages. Photographs are a great way to prove that. That’s why you’ll need to photograph everything including the road signs, direction of your bike, its damages, screech marks on the road, bodily injuries and anything else that you think will add value to your case.
Call a lawyer
Proving fault is sometimes easier said than done. Remember, insurance companies don’t have your best interest at heart. That’s why you need a legal counsel to guide you, and also represent you throughout the process.
