May 4, 2020

What Mistakes Should I Avoid After a Bicycle Accident?

You might be eligible for compensation for your losses and injuries if you were struck by a car while cycling. Your claim’s outcome, however, can be greatly impacted by the actions you take right after the accident and the errors you avoid.

Unfortunately, Florida has a high rate of bicycle accidents, particularly in major cities like Miami. Many cyclists are unaware that minor mistakes made after an accident can result in a claim being rejected or cost them thousands of dollars in compensation. If you want to safeguard your rights, you should steer clear of these most frequent blunders.

  1. Not Getting Medical Help Right Away

Not seeing a doctor right away after a bicycle accident is one of the worst mistakes you can make. It may take hours or days for internal injuries, concussions, or soft tissue damage to manifest, even if your injuries appear minor.

Insurance companies frequently use treatment gaps as a justification to claim that your injuries weren’t caused by the accident or that you weren’t seriously hurt. Always get medical help as soon as you can, for your own health and to support your claim.

  1. Not contacting the police

When the driver apologizes or offers to cover damages, some cyclists attempt to resolve the issue amicably. This is a grave error. It is much more difficult to establish what actually occurred or who was at fault in the absence of an official police report. Always give law enforcement a call, and ensure that the report includes your version of events.

  1. Neglecting to Maintain Proof

You can use your helmet, bicycle, and even your ripped clothes as proof. Take pictures of your injuries, the damage to your car, the accident scene, and any road debris. Wait until your lawyer gives you the all-clear before fixing or discarding your clothes or bike.

  1. Speaking with the insurance provider without seeking legal counsel

The goal of insurance adjusters’ training is to safeguard the interests of their business, not yours. They might try to get you to acknowledge some of your faults or request a recorded statement. Never sign any paperwork, give thorough answers, or agree to a settlement before speaking with a Florida bicycle accident lawyer.

  1. Postponing Getting in Touch with Legal Counsel

After an accident, time is of the essence. From obtaining evidence to negotiating with insurance companies, an experienced Miami bicycle accident attorney can help you at every stage of the procedure to guarantee you get just compensation. Your case will be stronger the sooner you get in touch with an attorney.

Defending Your Rights Following a Bicycle Mishap

Our skilled Miami bicycle accident lawyers at AccidentLawFirm.com are committed to defending cyclists hurt by careless motorists. We recognize that dealing with pain, missed income, and medical bills can make recovery extremely difficult, but you don’t have to go through it alone.

We’ll look into your accident, bargain with insurance companies, and get you all the money you’re due for your losses and injuries.

FAQs Regarding Florida Bicycle Accidents

What ought I to do right away following a bicycle mishap?

Get witness information, take pictures of the scene, call the police, and get medical help as soon as possible. Wait until you’ve spoken with an attorney before contacting the other driver’s insurance provider.

If I wasn’t wearing a helmet, can I still get compensation?

Indeed. Florida law doesn’t require helmets for riders over 16, but not wearing one may affect how much compensation you receive depending on your injuries.

In Florida, how long do I have to make a claim for a bicycle accident?

Although you normally have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim under Florida law, it’s best to move quickly in order to preserve evidence.

In the event of a bicycle accident, what damages am I entitled to?

You might be eligible for reimbursement for pain and suffering, lost income, property damage, and medical costs.

After a bicycle accident, should I speak with my insurance provider?

No, consult your attorney first. Insurance companies may attempt to persuade you to accept a low settlement or make statements that undermine your case.

Get in touch with the knowledgeable staff at AccidentLawFirm.com right now if you suffered serious injuries in a bicycle accident in Florida. Our Miami bicycle accident lawyers will work to secure the recompense you are entitled to. For a free consultation, give us a call right now.

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