Orange County Bicycle Accident Lawyer
If you are lucky enough to live in scenic Orange County, you know that riding a bicycle to avoid the stress of the overcrowded Southern California roadways or for exercise, riding a bike can be dangerous. Without warning, a driver’s negligence can cause a collision that leaves the cyclist with massive injuries. From head, neck and back injuries to broken bones, the devastation resulting from a bicycle accident can be quite overwhelming. Knowing what to do in the moments, weeks and months following an accident is vitally important.
Minutes After the Accident
The confusion and mayhem following a collision with a motor vehicle can leave a bicyclist unsure of the next steps. You are likely to see damage to your bicycle and feel pain, though pain may come later. Regardless of your pain level or immediate assessment of your injuries, your first step should be to call the police, even if you do not feel injured right away. Filing a police report of the damages is critical, especially since your injuries and pain may grow more severe over time. As you wait for the police, begin to document the accident with photos and notes if you are capable.
Once the Orange County police have arrived, be sure to speak with them directly. You want your story written down in detail and you need the police to acknowledge your injuries on site and include them in the police report. This is also the time to gather the contact information of witnesses and the driver involved with the accident.
Days After the Accident
If you are able, call your personal injury lawyer immediately. Document all the details you remember about the accident, including injuries, dates and times. Your memory of the event is sharpest immediately following the accident.
Our experienced attorneys at Duque Law Group will likely recommend that you seek medical attention as evidence of the damage caused. Documenting your injuries, no matter how small you think they are, is a vital step.
Resist the temptation to fix your bike; preserve as much physical evidence as possible. Leave your bicycle in the same condition as it was when you left the accident. If you have any other damaged property from the accident (including a helmet or clothing), keep that available as well as our attorneys may request photos of the pieces.
Weeks After the Accident
By this time, you will most likely have met with your attorney and discussed the accident and which circumstances will allow you to earn the maximum compensation that you deserve.
If you are contacted by an insurance company, direct them to your attorney to discuss the issue. Your attorney may wish to hire an independent expert to step in and analyze the situation before you communicate with insurance agents.
Talking to a Lawyer about Your Case
Personal injury cases are difficult and require a skilled attorney. Do not try to take on the insurance company lawyers by yourself. The Orange County lawyers at Duque Law Group want to get to the bottom of the case and help you receive any compensation for injuries, damage or pain and suffering that you may deserve.
Be sure to bring all evidence to your consultation, including photographs of the damages to your person and property, as well as any medical documentation if you have that.
