What to do if a bicyclist causes a car accident? If you have suffered injuries in a collision because of a bicyclist, it is important to ensure medical attention, file a police report, and gather evidence so you can file a claim to recover compensation.
A Salt Lake City bicycle accident lawyer can represent you and advocate for you so you can recover as many of your losses as possible after the collision.
Ensure Medical Treatment is Administered After an Accident Involving a Bicyclist
Safety and medical attention are important for both you and the bicyclist after an accident. Assessing the situation and calling 911 is one of the first steps you can take. A bicyclist can cause vehicle damage and injury to you and other occupants in the vehicle.
Bicyclists also absorb more impact in a collision due to their small size and lack of external protection. Potential injuries sustained in an accident may include:
- Head injuries and traumatic brain injuries
- Neck injuries
- Spine and back injuries
- Chest injuries
- Whiplash
- Face injuries
- Internal injuries
- Catastrophic injuries
- Wrongful death
Stay at the scene of the accident until first responders arrive and can examine you and the bicyclist and administer initial treatment. As for yourself, continue to monitor your injuries after being released from a doctor’s care in case your condition worsens, as some injuries can be delayed. Also, be sure to keep all of your medical records, test results, and bills to use as evidence in your claim.
For a free legal consultation, call (801) 266-0999
File a Police Report and Document the Scene After a Bicyclist Causes Your Accident
It is essential to file a police report, document the scene, and gather evidence after an accident with a cyclist. If a bicyclist causes a car accident, it is important to have an official record of the accident and its cause, even if it is minor. This is helpful for streamlining your claim and ensuring you do not shoulder undue liability for the collision. Insurance adjusters and lawyers will review the information in the report.
A police officer will investigate the scene of the accident to determine the role you and the bicyclist played in the accident. They will gather statements, information, diagrams, and photos to include in the report. The benefit of filing a police report is that it creates an objective, official record of the event. After the report is finalized, you should request a copy of the document for your records.
Additionally, it is important to collect your own evidence if possible. Take photos and videos of the damage to your vehicle as well as your injuries. You should also take pictures of the overall scene and any relevant environmental factors. You should also exchange information with the cyclist. These steps can help provide extra evidence, highlight what transpired, and show how the bicyclist caused harm.
File a Claim with Your Insurance Company in Salt Lake City
Because Utah is a no-fault state, you will need to file a claim with your own insurance after a car accident caused by a bicyclist. Your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) policy allows you to recover compensation without having to demonstrate that the bicyclist was at fault. Having a lawyer communicate with the insurance company on your behalf can help you get a better settlement.
Insurance companies often use various tactics to pay you as little as they possibly can. They may try to blame the accident on you, intentionally delay your claim, offer you a low settlement, or deny your claim outright. As an accident victim, you may be unsure of your rights in these situations, so it is better to let a lawyer communicate with the insurance company and put their negotiation skills to work for you.
Depending on the outcome of your insurance claim, you may need to file a lawsuit against the bicyclist directly. In this type of case, you will need to demonstrate that they were at fault before receiving compensation from them for your various losses. Your lawyer can also help you navigate the necessary legal requirements associated with this process so you can recover compensation as quickly as possible.
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Recovering Compensation for Losses Caused by an Accident in Salt Lake City, Utah
You can recover damages after an accident involving a bicyclist, but what you can recover will depend on the type of claim you file. You will most likely recover insurance for your losses through your PIP policy. By understanding Utah no-fault insurance coverage, you will be able to pursue compensation for your medical care and lost income in most situations.
If your accident meets certain thresholds and/or your losses are notably covered by no-fault insurance, then you may be able to file a claim directly against the bicyclist who caused your injury. In these cases, you will file a personal injury claim and can also recover vehicle damage expenses and compensation related to your pain and suffering.
Accidents caused by bicyclists can present unique considerations when it comes to determining what you can recover and how much your case is worth. Talking with a lawyer is important for calculating your losses, navigating negotiations, and recovering a fair settlement.
Statute of Limitations for Claims in Utah
In order to file a claim to recover losses caused in an accident, you must take action within the statute of limitations provided by the state. Utah allows victims of accidents involving motor vehicles and bicycles four years to take action. Once this time expires, no further action can be taken.
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Siegfried & Jensen Help You Navigate Your Case
When a bicyclist causes a car accident, reach out to Siegfried & Jensen. We are ready to support you and guide you through the intricacies of your case.
Our team provides experienced legal counsel, exceptional services, and effective negotiation skills when representing you. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation with a Salt Lake City personal injury lawyer and let us advocate for you.
Call or text (801) 266-0999 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
