I’ve Been in a Bicycling Accident: What’s Next?

Bicycling is not only a good form of exercise, it is a great method of transportation for various reasons. The health benefits, environmental impact, economic advantages, and flexibility are just several of the many great reasons to choose a bicycle as a primary form of transportation. Yet there is another side to bicycling that everyone should be aware of.

Bicycling can be dangerous if proper protocols are not followed. Car drivers are protected by seat belts, airbags, and steel frames, while a bicyclist is at the mercy of 2,000-pound vehicles. This makes dangers to bicyclists far more concerning. The consequences of a bike accident can range from road rash or broken bones to traumatic brain injuries and even death.

Some Alarming Statistics About Bicycling Accidents

Bicycle trips make up only 1% of total trips in the United States. However, bicyclists account for over 2% of people who die in a crash involving a motor vehicle. Here are some other statistics to be aware of:

• Nearly 1,000 bicyclists die and more than 130,000 are injured in accidents on U.S. roads every year.
• The costs of injuries and deaths from bicycle accidents typically exceed $23 billion in the United States each year – including the costs of healthcare and lost productivity, as well as the estimated costs of diminished quality of life and loss of life.
• People ages 10-24 account for nearly one-third of all bicycle-related injuries seen in U.S. emergency departments.
• Adults aged 55-69 have the highest bicycle death rates.
• Male cyclists have death rates 6 times higher and injury rates 5 times higher than female cyclists.
• Nearly one-third of accidents that result in a bicyclist’s death involve alcohol use by the driver or the cyclist.

Bicycling has its dangers, so it is essential to be aware of the next steps to take in the event of an accident.

What To Do After a Bicycling Accident

If you have been involved in a recent bicycle accident, you must take certain steps to protect your health and legal interests.

Your health is top priority, so seek medical attention for your injuries as soon as possible. Not only will this ensure you are safe, but it will start a record of your injuries, which could be important later.

Then, you will want to consider the steps involved in filing a personal injury lawsuit to ensure you are given the compensation you deserve. You should collect any evidence from the scene of the accident, documenting damages and injuries, identifying responsible parties, as well as any potential eye witnesses, and reach out to a bicycle accident attorney. At Jan Dils, our team is eager to help you get back on your feet after a traumatic accident.

If you decide to move forward with a lawsuit, our team will help you draft a formal complaint detailing your allegations and the damages you are seeking.

Talk to Our Law Firm if You Were in a Bike Crash and Looking for What to Do Next

Our skilled team of legal professionals can help you navigate the legal process from this point forward, with the goal of securing financial compensation. The legal process can be difficult to navigate, so it is important to consult with an injury attorney who can navigate the specifics of your situation and increase your chances at getting a positive result. Call us today for a free consultation after you sustained harm in a bike accident.