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When you’re involved in an accident, it can be difficult to regain composure and make sense of your situation. A bicycle accident can result in long-lasting physical and emotional trauma, like PTSD. Your injuries can lead to lost wages, expensive medical bills, pain, and emotional suffering.
However, if you’re planning to seek compensation for your accident, there are certain steps you need to take. These steps include gathering witness testimonies, calling the police, and getting the driver’s information.
We want to make sure nothing slips through the cracks. Keep reading for a quick guide on what to do after a bicycle accident in Pensacola, FL.
Call Emergency Services
First and foremost, you need to make sure you’re no longer in danger. If you’ve been hit while riding your bike, you might be in danger from other vehicles. Get off the road to ensure your own safety. Then, use your phone, a witness’s phone, or the driver’s phone to call the appropriate emergency services. They should send a police unit to conduct an investigation and document the accident, as well as emergency medical responders. Make sure the 911 operator knows if you have any injuries.
Get the Driver’s Information
Next, you need to collect the driver’s contact and insurance information. Get their name, telephone number, insurance provider, and insurance policy number.
You might also want to jot down a basic description of their vehicle. This includes, make, model, color, and license plate number.
Collect Evidence
To improve the strength of your potential case, you need to gather evidence from the accident. You can give this evidence to a bicycle accident attorney who will use the information to pursue a higher settlement.
Take photos of the scene and of your injuries with your phone. If your phone was broken, ask for a bystander’s phone and have them send you the images. You also need to collect witness statements from people who saw the accident (including their contact information).
Finally, jot down your account of the accident. Write down everything you remember.
Get a Medical Evaluation
Even if you don’t think you were seriously injured, you still need to get a medical evaluation. Some injuries resulting from a bicycle accident can have delayed symptoms. You might not be aware of the severity of your injuries until after the moment and adrenaline have passed.
Furthermore, official medical documentation will be necessary if you plan to file a lawsuit against the driver or their insurance company.
Seek Legal Counsel
Finally, find a Pensacola bicycle accident lawyer who specializes in bicycle accidents. They will work with you to establish a strong case and guide you along the process. They’ll also be able to give you an idea about potential settlement outcomes.
As far as funding goes, most personal injury attorneys only charge a contingent fee based on the success of your case. They take a small percent of your winnings, but only if your case is successful. Otherwise, they handle all of the legal fees and extraneous costs.
Have You Been Involved in a Bicycle Accident?
If you’ve recently been injured in a bicycle accident in Pensacola, FL, we can help you. You shouldn’t be stuck with your medical bills or any of the other costs involved. Just as importantly, you deserve restitution for your pain and suffering.
Contact us today to set up an appointment and get a case evaluation. Our law firm has assisted countless clients who have been injured in bicycle accidents. We have the experience, knowledge, and motivation to make sure you get the compensation you deserve.