It can happen in the blink of an eye. An unsuspecting driver starts to drift into your lane, or a truck pulls in front of you without checking for oncoming bikers and suddenly your world is spinning out of control. In the minutes, days, and weeks following a Spokane bicycle accident, there are actions that bikers can take to help bring their health and lives back to order. Here are 5 steps that ever Spokane bicyclist should take after experiencing a bicycle accident.
- Check for Injuries
Considering the magnitude of the event, you’ll probably be doing this anyway. Every accident is different, so be mindful of the places where you hurt the most and test them to identify the extent of the injury. Be mindful of your helmet, head, and neck. Try to take mental note of how the accident unfolded and where you’re feeling pain. This information can help to ensure that you get proper treatment for all the injuries you may have sustained in the accident. - Call the Police
Within minutes of the event, you or another person should be dialing 911. Spokane police will not only be able to witness the fallout of the event, but they can also file a report that can be used at a later date. If serious injuries were sustained, dispatchers can also send ambulances to come to your immediate aid. - Collect Info
Be sure that the incident is thoroughly documented. Pictures of your injuries, your bike, the car, and your surroundings will help to ensure a thorough representation of the accident. Document what you can remember of how the accident unfolded and collect contact information from any witnesses that were present during the fallout of the accident. This information can be used at a later date to ensure that you are fully and fairly compensated for any injuries or damages caused by the accident. - See a Doctor
If you sustained serious injuries as a result of the accident, you may have been transported directly to the hospital for treatment. If you walked away from the accident with no major injuries, we strongly recommend that you see a doctor immediately. A medical expert will be able to document your condition and verify that some long-term injuries, like back pain or joint pain, came as a result of the accident. This information can then ensure that any expenses of operations, medications, or therapy treatments are covered by insurance. - Call an Attorney
Following a bicycle accident, you will need to begin preparing your case to provide for the maximum amount of compensation allowed by law. It comes as no surprise that the compensation offered by the insurance companies tends to be far lower than the true value of the claim
A Spokane bicycle accident attorney can assist you in preparing an accurate claim, interacting with your doctors and insurance companies, and taking your case to court, should your insurance company give you trouble. At Russell and Hill, PLLC, our bicycle accident attorneys are committed to providing you with reliable services so that you can have the freedom to relax and recover from your accident.
For more information about how a Spokane bicycle accident attorney can help you file a personal injury claim and find full compensation, contact us today by giving us a call or filling out our contact form.