Scottsdale Bicycle Accident Attorney
Bicycle Accident Attorney Scottsdale, AZ 
Even though bicycle accidents are quite common in Arizona, a large number of people haven’t endured it themselves. While human beings aren’t invincible, many of us go about our daily lives not anticipating something tragic unfolding. Those who get hit by cars while on their bike, may not be sure what to do and can commit an easy mistake in the moments after. Unfortunately, these errors may be what hurts your case if you eventually take the offending driver to court for damages and losses.
A bicycle accident attorney in Scottsdale, AZ at Yearin Law Office can imagine that you may be in shock, and struggling to live a normal life in the weeks after a bicycle accident. We are here to help you overcome what is hopefully only a temporary setback. Here are five pieces of advice we think all bicyclists must know in case they ever get hit by a car:
#1 Seek Medical Attention for Injuries
Your health is the top priority after a bicycle accident. Even what may seem like minor injuries can develop into complicated health issues that require prompt medical attention. It is better to be safe by seeing a doctor right away than sorry later if your condition worsened due to not seeking medical attention.
Additionally, if you pursue a lawsuit against the driver, how quickly you sought medical care is likely to weigh heavily on your case. If it took you weeks to see a doctor, the driver’s attorney may try to minimize your claims or argue that the injuries could be unrelated.
#2 Take Photos and Talk to Witnesses
Always take pictures of the accident scene, as a photograph can help prove your side of the story. Without tangible proof, it ends up being your word against the driver’s. If you see witnesses nearby, ask for their contact information. Your Scottsdale, AZ bicycle accident attorney at Yearin Law Office can call them for an official statement. The more people you gather stories from which support your claims, the stronger your case can be in court.
#3 Do Not Post on Social Media
In a culture where many of us share thoughts, feelings, and other events on social media, now is not the time to post about your bicycle accident. The driver’s insurance company or attorney may look for any reason to avoid paying you compensation. The driver’s attorney may search your social media to identify any inconsistencies between your statements in the police report and what you shared publicly.
#4 Write Down a Summary
It can be easy to forget small, yet influential details of the accident in the hours or days after the incident. The human mind isn’t perfect and may start to forget factors of the accident. When you can, take a moment to sit down somewhere quiet and write down your version of what happened and then share this with your Scottsdale, AZ bicycle accident attorney from Yearin Law Office.
If you suffered physical injury and financial loss due to the bicycle accident, we suggest meeting with a bicycle accident attorney at Yearin Law Office. We can help you get the compensation you need to recover from the accident in which you just happened to be at the wrong place, at the wrong time. To schedule a free consultation with a bicycle accident attorney Scottsdale, AZ clients recommend, call our office today.
Steps To Take After a Bicycle Accident
After being involved in a bicycle accident, you might have injuries, a damaged bike and some liability, depending on the situation. What should you do? The following are three steps to take after your bicycle accident.
- Call the Police
Whether you feel the accident was your fault or the fault of the driver you crashed with, you should call the police. They often have a different view of what happened, and can use investigative tactics to help determine the cause of the accident. If it was a hit-and-run, the police may be able to help you track down the individual responsible for the accident.
The responding officer should make a report of the accident. That report will contain specific information about the incident, and could also contain witness statements and photographs. You’ll want to have all that evidence as you decide what to do next. When it’s an unbiased report from a police officer, it often holds more ground in court and with the insurance companies.
- Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel your injuries are not very serious, you should have them checked out as soon as possible. Sometimes there will be an EMT at the scene who can check you for injuries, and other times you’ll be taken to the emergency room. There’s also a chance you’ll need to contact your primary care doctor to schedule an appointment instead, but in any case, you should seek medical attention.
Keep good records of all your medical appointments. Write some notes down yourself, but also keep the documents the doctors give you. You should also hold on to all your medical bills so when it comes time to seek a claim, you’ll know an amount to seek.
- Contact Someone You Trust
It may be helpful to contact a friend or family member you trust to help you out. You might need someone to pick up your bike or take you to the hospital, and it’s often best to have a trusted person rather than an acquaintance or a stranger by your side. If you need help making medical decisions, you might want that person in the hospital room with you so you don’t have to make those choices on your own.
Contact Your Lawyer
As you can see, there are some specific things you should do after a bicycle accident. Many of these things are essential to you obtaining the compensation you deserve. Contact a bicycle accident lawyer today to learn more about handling an accident and seeking the proper compensation from the proper party.
5 Common Bicycle Accident Injuries
If you or a loved one have been in an accident, it may be in your best interest to discuss your situation with a bicycle accident attorney Scottsdale, AZ that victims can trust. Bicycle injuries are more common than people think. These accidents account for roughly about 2% of all traffic-related deaths and injuries per year around the United States. It is why you should know that if you decided to ride a bicycle; you are at a much higher risk of injury if an accident occurs. No bicycle is a match for a motor vehicle. Very rarely do cyclists escape unscathed and that is why the Yearin Law Office is there to help.
Negligence is a big part of why cyclists end up getting into an accident. Simple hand signals can help keep you and others safe. If you and others are not paying attention, then you could easily end up in an accident. With anything, there are injuries that are more common than others. Here are some of the most common ones.
- Head Injuries
Wearing a helmet shouldn’t be on your list of things you can go without on a bicycle. Head injuries occur in 22% to 47% of all injured bicyclists. This risk goes up for those who are not wearing a helmet during the time of the accident.
Head injuries are serious, and they often have long-term consequences. Around 60% of all deaths are caused by head injuries from those who were not wearing a helmet. It is by far one of the most common injuries and still one that people don’t take as seriously.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries
Brain injuries are one of the leading causes of death for injured bikers in the United States. This goes with the fact that many people don’t wear a helmet. Riders may sustain a brain injury without suffering any visible injury to the head, such as a concussion. Because a traumatic brain injury doesn’t always show itself right after an accident, it can make them dangerous. Some common symptoms include memory loss, mood swings, interrupted bodily function, or even mental and emotional changes.
- Facial Injuries
Bicycle accidents can result in significant damage to the rider’s face. This includes losing teeth, broken teeth, a fractured jaw, eye or vision damage, a broken nose, or road rash. All of these things can lead to permanent scarring and a long time of healing. This is why seeking a Scottsdale bicycle accident attorney may be in your best interest to hold the negligent party responsible.
- Bodily Trauma
Nearly all cyclists will suffer some form of musculoskeletal trauma after an accident. A rider that is struck on the back wheel may experience whiplash. A rider hit on the side may experience a broken leg, or a torn ligament in the knee joint. Riders who attempt to brace for a fall after a collision can easily dislocate their shoulder or break their hands and wrists as they strike the pavement. This can cause severe trauma like broken ribs and internal bleeding as well.
- Back Injuries
Cyclists that are struck with extreme force may land on their backs or roll after a crash. This can lead to severe trauma to the neck and back like a herniated disc or damage to the spinal cord. This can lead to paralysis causing a lifelong disability.
Scottsdale Bicycle Accident Frequently Asked Questions
What is the first step in the insurance claim process after a bicycle accident?
As your Scottsdale, AZ bicycle accident attorney knows, the first step in the insurance claim process after a bicycle accident is to report the incident to the relevant insurance company or companies involved. This includes contacting your own insurance provider, if applicable, as well as the insurance company of the party at fault if the accident was caused by someone else. Promptly reporting the accident helps initiate the claims process and allows the insurance companies to start their investigations. A lawyer from Yearin Law Office can help you with this.
What information do I need to provide when filing an insurance claim after a bicycle accident?
When filing an insurance claim after a bicycle accident, you will need to provide detailed information about the accident itself, including the date, time, and location of the incident. Additionally, you should provide a description of what happened and how the accident occurred. It is essential to provide accurate contact information for all parties involved, including witnesses, and any applicable police reports or incident numbers.
How long does the insurance claim process typically take after a bicycle accident?
The duration of the insurance claim process after a bicycle accident can vary depending on various factors, such as the complexity of the case, the severity of the injuries, and the cooperation of the parties involved. Generally, it can take weeks to several months to reach a resolution. Insurance companies typically conduct their investigations, assess liability, and evaluate damages before offering a settlement. It is important to be patient during this process, as reaching a fair settlement may require negotiation and legal guidance.
Will my insurance premium increase if I file a claim after a bicycle accident?
Filing an insurance claim after a bicycle accident does not automatically mean that your insurance premium will increase. However, insurance companies consider various factors when determining premium adjustments, including the frequency and severity of claims. If you were not at fault for the accident, it is less likely that your premium will increase. However, it is always best to consult with your insurance provider as well as your Scottsdale bicycle accident attorney directly to understand the insurance company’s policies and how filing a claim may impact your premium.
Can I still file an insurance claim if the accident was a hit-and-run?
If you were involved in a hit-and-run accident while riding a bicycle, it is still possible to file an insurance claim. In such cases, you should report the incident to the police as soon as possible and provide them with any relevant information or evidence you may have, such as witness statements or photos. Additionally, contact your insurance provider to report the hit-and-run and provide them with the necessary details. Depending on your insurance policy and the coverage you have, you may be eligible for compensation under uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, which can help cover your damages in the absence of the at-fault party. Consulting with your attorney who specializes in personal injury cases can be beneficial in navigating the claim process in hit-and-run situations.
Every insurance claim after a bicycle accident is unique, and it is advisable to consult with an attorney and your insurance provider to fully understand your rights, coverage, and the specific processes involved in your situation. Reach out to Yearin Law Office to speak with our trusted Scottsdale bicycle accident attorney now.
If you or a loved one have been in an accident, don’t hesitate to reach out to a Scottsdale bicycle accident attorney from the team at the Yearin Law Office for more information today.
