Bicycling is a popular and eco-friendly mode of transportation in Washington state. However, even with the proper precautions and safety measures, accidents can still happen. If you find yourself in a bicycle accident in Washington, it’s important to know what to do next.
Here are the steps you should take after a bicycle accident in Washington:
Seek medical attention
Your first priority after a bicycle accident is to seek medical attention. Even if you feel fine, it’s important to get checked out by a medical professional. Some injuries, such as concussions or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms right away.
Call the police
Even if your accident seems minor, it’s still important to call the police. They can create a police report that will help you when you file an insurance claim or seek compensation for damages. When you speak to the police, make sure to give them all the details of the accident, including where it happened and any witnesses that were present.
Exchange information with the other party
Exchange contact and insurance information with the other party involved in the accident. If there were witnesses present, get their contact information as well. This will help when you file an insurance claim or if you need to seek compensation for damages.
Document the accident
Take pictures of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damage to your bicycle or other property. This documentation will be helpful when you file an insurance claim or seek compensation for damages.
Notify your insurance company
If you have bicycle insurance, notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. They will guide you through the claims process and help you get the compensation you deserve.
Consider seeking legal advice
If you were seriously injured or if the other party was at fault for the accident, it may be in your best interest to seek legal advice. A personal injury attorney can help you navigate the legal process and ensure you receive fair compensation for your damages.
Follow up with medical treatment
If you were injured in the accident, make sure to follow up with any recommended medical treatment. This includes attending doctor’s appointments and completing any physical therapy or rehabilitation. This will not only help you heal but also provide additional documentation of your injuries.
If you find yourself in a bicycle accident in Washington, it’s important to take the proper steps to protect yourself and your legal rights. Seek medical attention, call the police, exchange information with the other party, document the accident, notify your insurance company, consider seeking legal advice, and follow up with medical treatment. By following these steps, you can ensure you receive the compensation you deserve and protect yourself from further harm.
Additionally, it’s important to note that Washington is a comparative fault state. This means that if you were partially at fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced proportionally. For example, if you were found to be 25% at fault for the accident, your compensation would be reduced by 25%. It’s important to work with an experienced attorney who can help you navigate this complex legal system.
Furthermore, Washington law requires that bicyclists follow the same traffic laws as motor vehicles. This means that you should obey traffic signals, ride in the same direction as traffic, use hand signals when turning, and use lights when riding at night. Failure to follow these laws can result in a citation or reduced compensation if you are in an accident. If you’re unsure of your legal rights or how to proceed after a bicycle accident, it’s important to seek professional advice. An experienced attorney or insurance agent can help you understand your options and guide you through the process. Additionally, organizations such as Cascade Bicycle Club offer resources and support for bicyclists in Washington.
A bicycle accident can be a traumatic experience, but taking the proper steps after the accident can help protect you and your legal rights. Seek medical attention, call the police, exchange information with the other party, document the accident, notify your insurance company, consider seeking legal advice, and follow up with medical treatment. By taking these steps, you can ensure you receive the compensation you deserve and get back to enjoying your bicycling adventures.
If you’ve been involved in a bicycle accident in Washington, Paukert & Troppmann, PLLC can provide legal guidance and support throughout the claims process. Here are some ways our law firm can help:
Investigating the accident:
Our attorneys can investigate the accident by reviewing police reports, witness statements, and other evidence to determine liability. This will help us build a strong case on your behalf.
Evaluating damages:
We can evaluate the damages resulting from the accident, including medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage. We’ll also consider the long-term impact of your injuries and any future medical needs.
Negotiating with insurance companies:
Our attorneys can negotiate with insurance companies to ensure you receive fair compensation for your damages. Insurance companies may try to minimize your compensation, but we’ll work to protect your legal rights and get you the compensation you deserve.
Representing you in court:
If necessary, our attorneys can represent you in court. We’ll use our legal expertise to build a strong case and present it in court to help you achieve a favorable outcome.
Providing support and guidance:
Our attorneys understand that a bicycle accident can be a traumatic experience. We’ll provide support and guidance throughout the process to help you navigate the legal system and make informed decisions about your case.
At Paukert & Troppmann, PLLC, we’re dedicated to helping our clients achieve the best possible outcome in their bicycle accident cases. We have extensive experience in personal injury law and a track record of success in obtaining compensation for our clients. If you’ve been involved in a bicycle accident in Washington, don’t hesitate to contact us for a free consultation to discuss your legal options.