Riding a bicycle in Augusta offers numerous benefits, from staying active to enjoying the scenic beauty of the area. However, it also comes with risks, particularly when sharing the road with motor vehicles. Being hit by a car while riding your bicycle can be a traumatic experience. Knowing what steps to take immediately after the accident can make a significant difference in protecting your rights and ensuring your well-being.

1. Ensure Your Safety and Call for Help

The first priority after being involved in a bicycle accident is your safety. If you’re able to move, get yourself out of harm’s way to avoid further injury. Move to the sidewalk or the shoulder of the road, away from traffic. Once you’re in a safe location, call 911 immediately. Even if you don’t think you’re severely injured, having law enforcement and medical professionals on the scene is crucial. The police will document the accident, and medical professionals can assess and treat any injuries you may have sustained.

2. Seek Medical Attention Immediately

Even if you feel fine after the accident, it’s vital to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as internal bleeding or concussions, may not be immediately apparent. Prompt medical evaluation not only ensures your health and safety but also provides documentation of your injuries, which is important if you decide to pursue compensation later. When speaking to medical personnel, be sure to report all symptoms, no matter how minor they may seem. This helps create a comprehensive medical record that may be necessary if you file a claim.

3. Collect Information and Evidence at the Scene

If you’re able, gather as much information as possible at the scene of the accident. This information will be invaluable when building your case. Here are some key pieces of information to collect:

  • Driver’s Information: Obtain the driver’s name, contact information, license plate number, driver’s license number, and insurance details.
  • Witness Statements: If there are any witnesses, ask for their names and contact information. Witnesses can provide crucial third-party accounts of the incident.
  • Photographic Evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, including the position of the vehicles, your bicycle, any visible injuries, and any road conditions that may have contributed to the accident.
  • Police Report: When law enforcement arrives, they will file an accident report. Make sure to obtain a copy of this report, as it will contain important details about the incident.

4. Do Not Admit Fault or Make Statements

In the moments following an accident, you might feel the urge to apologize or make statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault. It’s essential to remain calm and avoid making any statements about the cause of the accident. Leave the determination of fault to the professionals who will investigate the incident. Stick to the facts when speaking with law enforcement and medical personnel, and avoid discussing the accident with the other party involved or with insurance representatives until you’ve spoken with a legal professional.

5. Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company

Notify your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Most insurance policies require prompt reporting of incidents to maintain coverage. Provide your insurance company with the basic facts of the accident but refrain from giving a recorded statement or accepting any settlement offers until you’ve sought legal advice. Insurance companies often aim to settle claims quickly and for the lowest amount possible, which may not cover the full extent of your injuries and damages.

6. Contact Go Big Injury Lawyers

Navigating the aftermath of a bicycle accident can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with medical bills, insurance companies, and the potential long-term impact on your life. Go Big Injury Lawyers is here to help you through this challenging time. Our team is available 24 hours a day and can be contacted at 800-777-7777. We have offices conveniently located in Augusta, as well as Athens, Macon, Atlanta, Albany, and Columbus, and we are ready to offer the guidance and support you need.

7. Document Your Injuries and Treatment

Keep detailed records of your injuries, medical treatments, and any related expenses. This includes doctor visits, medications, physical therapy, and any changes to your daily activities or ability to work. This documentation is crucial when pursuing compensation for your injuries. The more comprehensive your records, the stronger your case will be when seeking compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

8. Understand Your Legal Rights

As a bicyclist involved in an accident with a motor vehicle, you have legal rights. Georgia law allows injured cyclists to seek compensation for damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. Understanding your rights is essential to ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. In some cases, the at-fault driver’s insurance may attempt to argue that you were partially or entirely to blame for the accident. Having an attorney who understands Georgia’s laws and can advocate on your behalf is crucial in these situations.

9. Avoid Discussing the Accident on Social Media

In today’s digital age, it might be tempting to share your experience on social media. However, it’s best to avoid discussing the accident or your injuries online. Insurance companies and opposing legal teams often monitor social media accounts for information that could be used against you. Even innocent posts can be taken out of context and potentially harm your case. Until your claim is resolved, it’s advisable to refrain from posting anything related to the accident.

10. Pursue Compensation for Your Injuries

When you’re hit by a car while riding your bicycle, the financial impact can be significant. Medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses can quickly add up. You may be entitled to compensation for:

  • Medical Expenses: This includes emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and ongoing medical care.
  • Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you can seek compensation for lost income and loss of earning capacity.
  • Pain and Suffering: Compensation for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
  • Property Damage: Reimbursement for the cost of repairing or replacing your bicycle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.

11. Why Choose Go Big Injury Lawyers

Choosing the right legal representation can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. Go Big Injury Lawyers is committed to helping victims of bicycle accidents navigate the legal process and fight for the compensation they deserve. Our team understands the complexities of bicycle accident cases and the challenges victims face in dealing with insurance companies.

We offer free consultations to discuss your case and provide guidance on the best course of action. Our commitment is to work tirelessly on your behalf, allowing you to focus on your recovery. With offices in Augusta and across Georgia, we are here to serve you.

Final Thoughts

Being involved in a bicycle accident can be a life-changing event. The steps you take immediately following the accident can significantly impact your ability to recover physically, emotionally, and financially. By ensuring your safety, seeking medical attention, collecting evidence, and understanding your legal rights, you set the foundation for a strong case.

If you’ve been hit by a car while riding your bicycle in Augusta, don’t navigate this journey alone. Contact Go Big Injury Lawyers at 800-777-7777, available 24 hours a day, for a free consultation. Let us help you get the compensation you deserve so you can focus on healing and moving forward with your life.