Bicycling is a popular mode of transportation and exercise in Texas, with many cities investing in bike lanes and trails to accommodate cyclists. However, even with these improvements, bicycle accidents can still occur, often resulting in serious injuries. If you’ve been in a bicycle accident in Texas, it’s important to know what steps to take to protect your health and legal rights. Here are some tips on what to do after a bicycle accident in Texas.
Seek Medical Attention
The first thing you should do after a bicycle accident is to seek medical attention, even if you feel fine. Some injuries, such as concussions or internal injuries, may not present immediate symptoms but can be serious if left untreated. Call 911 or go to the emergency room if you have any signs of a serious injury, such as severe pain, bleeding, or difficulty breathing.
Report the Accident
If the accident occurred on a public roadway, you must report it to law enforcement. Texas law requires that any accident resulting in injury or property damage over $1,000 be reported to the police within 10 days. If you’re unable to report the accident yourself, ask someone else to do so on your behalf.
Collect Information
Collecting information about the accident and the parties involved is crucial for your insurance claim and potential legal case. Get the name, phone number, and insurance information of the driver involved in the accident. Also, get contact information from any witnesses to the accident.
Document the Scene
Take photos of the accident scene, your bicycle, and any injuries you sustained. This evidence can be useful in proving fault and damages in your case.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible, even if you were not at fault. Be honest and thorough in your account of the accident, and provide any documentation or information requested by your insurer.
Contact an Attorney
If you sustained serious injuries or significant property damage in the accident, consider contacting a personal injury attorney with experience in bicycle accidents. An attorney can help you navigate the legal process and advocate for your rights.
Follow Up on Medical Treatment
Follow up on any medical treatment or rehabilitation recommended by your healthcare provider. Keep all medical records and bills related to the accident, as these may be used to support your claim for damages.
Bicycle accidents can be traumatic and life-changing. By following these steps, you can protect your health and legal rights after a bicycle accident in Texas. Remember to stay calm, seek medical attention, and document the scene and parties involved. With the help of an experienced personal injury attorney, you can pursue the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.
After a bicycle accident, it’s important to be careful what you say to the other party involved, witnesses, law enforcement, and insurance companies. Avoid admitting fault or apologizing for the accident, as this could be interpreted as an admission of liability. Stick to the facts and avoid speculation.
Keep Track of Time Limits
In Texas, there are strict time limits for filing a personal injury lawsuit. The statute of limitations for most personal injury cases, including bicycle accidents, is two years from the date of the accident. It’s important to be aware of these time limits and to take action promptly if you plan to file a lawsuit.
Be Prepared for the Legal Process
If you decide to pursue a personal injury claim after a bicycle accident, be prepared for the legal process. This may include negotiations with insurance companies, depositions, and potentially a trial. Your attorney can guide you through the process and advocate for your rights.
Being involved in a bicycle accident in Texas can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. However, by taking the right steps after the accident, you can protect your health, legal rights, and pursue the compensation you deserve. Seek medical attention, report the accident, collect information, document the scene, notify your insurance company, contact an attorney, be careful what you say, keep track of time limits, and be prepared for the legal process. With these tips in mind, you can navigate the aftermath of a bicycle accident in Texas with confidence.
Willumsen Law Firm can help with a bicycle accident case in several ways. As experienced personal injury attorneys, we understand the complexities of bicycle accident cases and can provide guidance and representation throughout the legal process. Here are some ways we can help:
- Investigate the Accident: We can conduct a thorough investigation of the accident to determine the cause and liability. This may include collecting evidence such as witness statements, police reports, and physical evidence from the accident scene.
- Assess Damages: We can assess the damages you sustained as a result of the accident, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. This information can be used to negotiate a fair settlement or pursue a lawsuit if necessary.
- Negotiate with Insurance Companies: We can negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses. Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim or deny liability, but we have the experience and knowledge to advocate for your rights.
- Represent You in Court: If a settlement cannot be reached, we can represent you in court. We have experience litigating personal injury cases and can fight for your rights and fair compensation in the courtroom.
- Provide Support and Guidance: We understand that a bicycle accident can be a traumatic and overwhelming experience. We can provide support and guidance throughout the legal process, answering any questions you may have and keeping you informed of the progress of your case.
At Willumsen Law Firm, our goal is to help you recover physically, emotionally, and financially from a bicycle accident. We are committed to advocating for your rights and pursuing the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can help with your bicycle accident case.