- May 5, 2020
Riding a bicycle is a pleasurable activity and an environmentally friendly mode of transportation. It also allows you to get around while getting in your exercise. But despite all the benefits, bicyclists are quite vulnerable as they travel through Baton Rouge. Bicyclists have a right to use the city’s roads. However, motorists often don’t see them. When they do, they don’t give them the respect they deserve.
If you get into an accident while on your bike, you need to take the right steps. This could save your life and secure your right to get compensation. Your injury attorney in Baton Rouge will play a major role in your case. However, they won’t be there in the minutes and hours following your crash.
What to Do After a Crash
Accidents are scary but if you’re prepared, it can make a world of difference. Let’s look at some of the things you need to do right after the crash.
Get Medical Attention
If you suffer obvious injuries, you’ll no doubt go to the hospital. The driver who hit you or an eyewitness may even call an ambulance to the scene. However, if your injuries appear minor and you don’t feel pain, you may want to avoid the doctor. Unfortunately, some serious injuries don’t present symptoms until hours or days after the crash. If you wait until then to go to the doctor, the driver’s insurer may question whether you got your injuries in the accident. Alternatively, they may argue that you aggravated the injury by not seeking prompt medical attention. To be on the safe side, see a doctor immediately.
Call the Police and Wait for them to Arrive
Under state law, an accident that results in injury, death, or property damage worth more than $500 must be reported to the police. You should make the call from the scene so the police can respond and file a report. Your vehicle accident attorney can use this as evidence later. Stay at the scene so you can give your account of the accident. Simply stick to the facts and don’t apologize or make assumptions.
Get the Contact Details for Eyewitnesses
Eyewitness testimony can help to support your claim for compensation. However, some of the people who saw the crash may leave the scene before the police arrive. Tracking them down later may be difficult. Not everyone will want to get involved but you should try to get the names, addresses, and phone numbers of people who saw what happened. Your Baton Rouge vehicle accident attorney may need their statements.
Take Photos of the Scene
Memories can be unreliable, especially after trauma. Furthermore, police officers don’t always write down everything they’re told. Photos may capture something that was missed. If you’re physically able, take out your cell phone and capture photos and videos of the damage to your bicycle. You should also take photos of your injuries and the wider accident scene. Visuals go a long way in proving how an accident occurred.
Get Treatment for Your Injuries
If a doctor found that you suffered injuries, they most likely recommended some type of treatment. This may be medication, surgery, or physical therapy. Whatever it is, you need to ensure you follow the doctor’s orders. If you fail to get the appropriate treatment, not only will your health suffer but you may not be able to get compensation. Insurance companies will look for any reason to deny a claim. If you’re hurt, why wouldn’t you want to get prompt treatment?
Why You Need to Hire an Injury Attorney in Baton Rouge
Some bicycle accident victims assume that they will get the compensation they deserve by simply submitting an insurance claim. Some cases are straightforward, and victims recover damages easily. However, people who hire experienced attorneys often get better outcomes. Attorneys know how to quantify damages, gather evidence, negotiate with insurers, and secure full compensation. They will let you know if the settlement you’re being offered is fair or not. Furthermore, you’ll be able to concentrate on your recovery while your lawyer handles all the paperwork and red tape. That should help you to have some peace of mind.
Contact Bart Bernard Injury Lawyers Today!
If you’ve suffered injuries in a bicycle accident, you need to seek help from an auto accident attorney in Baton Rouge. At Bart Bernard Injury Lawyers, we know how hard it can be to get compensation on your own. Reach out to us today to schedule a consultation and learn what we can do for you. Your initial case review is free, and we work on a contingency basis so you have nothing to lose.
