What to do after a bike accident is an urgent question after a bicycle crash in Chicago. Quick thinking ensures that you have a strong case and can recover compensation, making it important to act quickly.
Our Chicago bicycle accident lawyers can assist you with the most common questions about bike accidents and ensure you get proper compensation. Contact us today for a free consultation.
What to Do After a Chicago Bicycle Accident
- Get to Safety – Bicyclists should quickly get to the closest sidewalk and assess their injuries.
- Call 911 – Report the accident to the Chicago Police Department and ask for medical help.
- Exchange Information with Other Parties – Get the at-fault driver’s license number, contact details, and insurance information.
- Document the Accident Scene – Take pictures of property damage and your injuries as soon as possible.
- Speak to Other People Involved – Get witness information and contact information. Your attorney can then interview witnesses to build your case.
- Note Time, Date, and Location – This helps attorneys find independent witnesses and review surveillance footage that can identify vehicles involved.
Seeking Medical Attention
Bicycle accident cases often result in severe injuries, such as in Ashley Ferry v. Bryan Pendleton, Enterprise Leasing Company of Chicago, where a young cyclist suffered life-changing injuries after being hit by a car in Wicker Park. However, it may not always be obvious that you’ve been injured.
Contacting emergency services is crucial for both your safety and your chance of getting a settlement. You should also keep all your medical expenses, records, and treatment plans, as your attorney can use this in your bike crash claim.
Reporting the Accident
According to the Illinois Department of Transportation, 1,440 bicycle collisions were reported to Chicago Police in 2023, but the real number of accidents is likely far higher.
Though Illinois statute §625 ILCS 5/11-407 requires motor vehicle drivers to report an accident that results in serious injury, they may not be aware that this applies to bicycle crashes, too. This is because Chicago municipal code §9-52-010 states that bicyclists and drivers have the same duties and obligations, including reporting.
The insurance company will often require the police report before accepting a claim, and your employer may need it if it occurred with a company vehicle. You should also notify your own insurance agent in case you can claim on your policy.
Documenting Your Damages
You should extensively document your losses and experiences after a bike accident. Consider the following documentation:
- Proof of your bike’s value and any repair costs
- A daily journal to document pain levels and the impact of injuries
- Medical bills, medication receipts, and out-of-pocket expenses
- Pay stubs, employer statements, and tax returns to show lost wages
- Medical reports and treatment plans
Dealing with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies will seek to minimize your payments, making it crucial that you act carefully around them. Do not give recorded statements to any agencies without consulting with an attorney.
Anything you say can be used against you, reducing your chances of a settlement. For example, if an agent asks how you’re doing and you say you’re fine, this can be used as evidence that you’re not actually hurt.
You should not accept a settlement without speaking to your lawyer. They can help you explore your legal options, carefully review any offers, and ensure that you are getting a fair bicycle accident settlement.
Consulting with a Chicago Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Our bicycle accident attorney team has extensive experience and deep knowledge of traffic laws, ensuring that we can accurately determine negligence and liability. We will thoroughly investigate the accident and find evidence that others may miss so that you have a solid case.
Additionally, we can negotiate with insurance agencies on your behalf to maximize your settlement offer. Thanks to our years of negotiation, we know what a fair offer is in cases like yours and will not settle for less.
Secure Expert Legal Counsel!
Bicyclists must act quickly after a crash to protect their legal rights and overall safety. Our law firm has a 98% success rate and is feared by insurance agencies nationwide because of our fierce advocacy. We’ve recovered millions in damages for our clients, including injured cyclists.To schedule a free consultation with bicycle accident lawyers serving Illinois, call us or use our online contact form.
