Bicycles are a popular mode of transportation for people of all ages, especially in urban areas. While they are an eco-friendly option, bicycles can pose a risk to motorists if they collide with a car. If you were involved in an accident with a bicycle, it’s essential to know what to do next. In this article, we will discuss what steps you should take if a bicycle hits your car.
Stop and Check for Injuries
The first thing you should do after a collision is to stop your vehicle and check for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call for an ambulance immediately. Even if nobody appears injured, it’s still important to exchange contact and insurance information with the bicyclist involved.
Call the Police
In most states, you are required to report any accidents involving injuries, death, or property damage exceeding a certain dollar amount. It’s best to call the police, even if the accident seems minor. A police report can serve as valuable evidence if a lawsuit arises.
Document the Scene
Take photos of the accident scene. This will help to establish what happened and who was at fault. Get pictures of the damage to your vehicle and the bicycle, as well as any skid marks or debris on the road. Also, take down the names and phone numbers of any witnesses who saw the accident.
Exchange Information
Make sure to exchange information with the bicyclist involved. Get their name, phone number, insurance information, and the make and model of their bicycle. If they are a minor, get the name and phone number of their parent or guardian.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance company as soon as possible to report the accident. They will ask for the details of the crash and may send an adjuster to assess the damage to your vehicle. Be sure to provide them with any documentation you have collected, including police reports and witness statements.
Do Not Admit Fault
It’s important not to admit fault for the accident, even if you believe you were at fault. Admitting fault can hurt your chances of recovering damages if the bicyclist files a lawsuit against you. Instead, stick to the facts about what happened and let the insurance companies and legal system determine who is at fault.
Seek Legal Counsel
If you or the bicyclist involved suffered injuries in the accident, it’s important to seek legal counsel. A personal injury attorney can help you navigate the legal process and pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.
Conclusion
Collisions between bicycles and cars can be devastating. If you find yourself in this situation, remember to stop and check for injuries, call the police, document the scene, exchange information, contact your insurance company, and avoid admitting fault. Seeking legal counsel is also a good idea if injuries were involved.
FAQs
- What should I do if the bicyclist is not cooperating or refuses to provide their information?
If the bicyclist is not cooperating, call the police and let them handle the situation.
- What should I do if I hit a pedestrian?
If you hit a pedestrian, you should stop your vehicle immediately and call for medical assistance.
- What if the bicyclist was riding recklessly or without lights at night?
Even if the bicyclist was riding recklessly or without lights, you are still required to exercise caution and avoid colliding with them.
- Can I be sued if the accident was not my fault?
Yes, you can still be sued even if the accident was not your fault. It’s important to have insurance and seek legal counsel to protect yourself.
- What happens if the bicyclist is injured and does not have insurance?
If the bicyclist is injured and does not have insurance, they may still be able to seek compensation from your insurance company or through legal action.