A bicycle accident can upend your life in a heartbeat. Often, these accidents leave cyclists with traumatic physical injuries and a significant financial burden. In Wisconsin, you could be entitled to compensation after a bike crash if someone else caused it. Taking the right steps can protect your health and any future legal claim, so here’s a closer look at what to do after a bicycle accident in Wisconsin.
Ensure Your Safety
Get to the side of the road and ensure you are safely out of harm’s way. The only thing worse than an initial bicycle accident is another accident caused by a rubbernecking motorist or someone who can’t see you on the ground. Check yourself and anyone else involved in the accident for injuries.
Call for Help
Always contact the authorities after a collision with a careless driver. Law enforcement and EMS can treat your injuries at the crash site and control the scene to prevent further accidents. If you need emergency treatment for severe injuries, the information contained in the police report can verify the bicycle accident occurred and the names of the parties involved when you file your personal injury claim.
Document the Scene
Your health is always the priority. Seek medical treatment first. But if are physically able to do so, document the accident scene as thoroughly as possible. Take photographs and videos of the damage to your bike, the other car, your injuries, and the surrounding area. Ask witnesses for their contact information so your bicycle accident lawyer can follow up with them later.
Seek Medical Attention
You should see a doctor regardless of whether you feel injured after a bike accident. Concussions and soft-tissue injuries may not manifest symptoms until later but could be detected early through a physical exam or imaging test. Other life-threatening injuries, such as internal bleeding, may not become symptomatic until it’s too late. From a legal perspective, medical records showing the extent of your injuries and timely treatment after the crash can only strengthen your bicycle accident claim.
Contact a Bicycle Accident Lawyer
If you were hit by a car or otherwise involved in a bicycle accident, seeking legal advice from an experienced bicycle accident attorney can help you understand the claims process and how to hold the at-fault party accountable. A Wisconsin bicycle accident attorney can guide you through the aftermath and advocate for you, ensuring you can pursue maximum compensation for your injuries.
Schedule a Consultation Today with a Wisconsin Bicycle Accident Lawyer
LawtonCates has a long history of helping South Central Wisconsin residents pursue the justice and compensation they deserve after serious accidents. If a careless motorist injured you, find out your legal options by contacting one of our Wisconsin bicycle accident attorneys today. The first consultation is free and you only pay if we win your case, so there’s nothing to lose. Call or contact us now.
