Did you know that motorcyclists are 20 times more likely to have an accident than drivers of other cars? About 82,528 motorcyclists were injured in bicycle crashes in 2020, according to statistics from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration.
Bicycle accidents are more serious because motorcycles are not only less visible than cars, they also expose the driver and passengers, increasing the risk of injury.
Therefore, it is important to know and prepare in advance what to do if an accident occurs. Here are four things to do immediately after a bicycle or motorbike accident:
Go to a safe place
Most accidents involving multiple vehicles occur on highways. If so, the first thing you should do is stay away from heavy traffic areas, such as the shoulder of the road or nearby parking lots.
If physically possible, put your bike away. However, if you are seriously injured, stay in your current position until an ambulance arrives. If you urgently need medical attention, it is best not to move at all.
If the injury persists, it is important to stabilize it as quickly as possible. First, take off your helmet and use a clean cloth or bandage to apply direct pressure to the wound. If the wound is deep, use a sterile bandage such as gauze to prevent infection.
Elevate the area if possible to reduce blood flow. If the wound is bleeding a lot, you should use a tourniquet to stop the blood flow. See a doctor as soon as possible to ensure proper treatment of your wound.
It is recommended that you bring a personal medical kit containing bandages, gauze, and cotton or sterile dressings when on board the plane. If possible, check to see if the driver stops to help.
Keep your equipment running
When you experience trauma after an accident, your body releases adrenaline as a defense response, temporarily numbing the pain. Therefore, you may not realize that you have an injury until several days later.
To prevent your injury from getting worse, wear all protective equipment so paramedics can see you.
Whether you are pedaling a bicycle or riding a motorbike, it is very important to wear safety equipment to protect yourself in the event of an accident.
Helmets are required and must be worn correctly and meet the required safety standards. Motorcycle jackets, gloves, boots, and other protective clothing can also help reduce the impact of an accident on your body.
Choose products designed specifically for motorcyclists. This can help save you a lot of pain if an accident occurs.
You should also always maintain your bicycle properly to ensure optimal performance and safety. Taking these precautions can help reduce the risk of serious injury if an accident occurs.
Report a bicycle accident
Call 911 to report the accident and get medical help or contact the police if necessary. If the police file a report, be sure to get a copy that includes the contact information of the responding police department. This information is important for insurance purposes.
When calling 911 during an accident, it is important to provide as much detailed information as possible. Please briefly describe the exact location and what happened. Describe the type of vehicle that caused the injuries you or others may have suffered.
Finally, follow all directions given by the 911 operator and stay on the phone until help arrives. By providing as much information as possible, you can help first responders respond quickly and effectively.
Gather your documents
Take photos of the accident, any resulting damage, and the license plates of the vehicles involved. You’ll also need to get the driver’s other information, including name, driver’s license number, and insurance company.
If there is a witness you would like to testify about, please include their contact information.
Once you have gathered all the documents related to your accident, it is important to store them safely. All of these documents can be valuable evidence in the event of a dispute or legal action.
To protect your documents, make copies and store them in a safe place, such as a personal folder, so you can retrieve them at any time. If possible, store original documents in a fireproof container or safe.
Additionally, please back up your documents regularly in case your computer malfunctions. Taking these steps will give you peace of mind that your important documents will be safe when you need them.
Hire a Lawyer After a Bicycle Accident
Although not required, the experience of a motorcycle accident personal injury lawyer can help you get the insurance settlement you deserve.
Most people have difficulty understanding the complex laws that apply to bicycle accidents, and insurance companies take full advantage of this.
On the other hand, a professional attorney has the experience and knowledge to negotiate on your behalf and obtain a more positive outcome.
A qualified and experienced attorney will understand the complexities of the legal system and can advise you on how best to handle your case.
We can also help you document all relevant evidence, provide expert testimony, negotiate with insurance companies and opposing attorneys, and obtain a fair settlement.
Additionally, many attorneys work on an emergency basis. This means we will not charge you unless you win your case and receive compensation for your injuries.
Having a lawyer’s experience can give you peace of mind and confidence as you navigate the legal process, especially if you are injured and need rest and treatment.
Finally, what to do if a bicycle accident occurs
The impact of a motorcycle accident can be shocking and overwhelming, but it is important to remain calm and take the necessary steps to ensure your safety and well-being.
Getting to a safe location, maintaining your equipment, calling 911, gathering documentation, and hiring an attorney if necessary can help you protect yourself and achieve the best outcome in the event of a motorcycle accident.
With the proper knowledge and preparation, you can ensure your safety and get the justice you deserve.
Good luck and stay safe!
About the Author:
Dixie Sommers is a freelance writer who loves writing about business, health, and women’s concerns. She lives in Arizona with her husband and three beautiful daughters.
