What to Do if a Driver Hits Your Bicycle
Getting hit whilst on your bike can be extremely dangerous – even if you’re wearing protective gear. Automobile drivers can often be very unaware of cyclists generally, so it’s always a good idea to wear reflective clothing, have a light on your bike, and of course invest in a secure helmet. Even if you take these precautions, there’s still a risk you might get hit, so it’s important to know what your rights are – especially if you have to buy a new bicycle or have to take a trip to the hospital because of a collision.
So what should you do if you’re hit whilst on your bicycle? Well in the state of Florida, there’s what’s known as comparative liability. This means you can seek damages to aid in your recovery if the blame is partly yours and mostly the drivers. If you’re hit then ensure to take the following steps to protect yourself:
- Call 911 and ask to speak to the EMT if needed, and the police to report it
- Never speak to anyone about the crash immediately afterwards – you may be in shock or confused and you don’t want your liability to be affected by something you said in the moment
- Take pictures of the scene, the car, and the bicycle, as well as any injuries. Ensure to get all relevant contact information from the driver (number, insurance detail, license plate)
- Speak to the police and check if they are filing an accident report – ensure it is accurate
- Get contact information from any witnesses to the incident – even if the driver is admitting fault at the time
- Ask for a copy of the accident report
- Speak to an attorney to ensure you get a fair deal.
Insurance companies will often try and lowball you a figure, which is why it’s important to speak with an experienced attorney who can negotiate on your behalf. If you’ve recently been the victim of an accident, contact Franco Firm who can advise you on the best course of action.