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Riding your bike is good for the environment and good for your health – until the unexpected happens and you become the victim of a crash. If you were in a bicycle accident, it’s important to be informed about your options.
Bicycle accidents are more common than you might think. According to the Michigan State Police’s Criminal Justice Information Center, in 2019 there were 1,129 bicycle crashes involving either a fatal crash, a crash with an injury, or property damage. Of those crashes, 365 were in Wayne County, meaning there was one bicycle crash a day in the county in 2019. If you are ever in a bicycle accident in Detroit, Michigan, you may need to seek compensation for your medical treatment and other costs caused by the injury.
Contact us at Ratton Law Group PC to learn about what you should do after an accident and what your options are for filing a personal injury claim. We will fight vigorously to get you the compensation you deserve.
What to Do After a Bicycle Accident
If you’re involved in a bicycle accident, your first priority should be to seek medical attention. Call 911 immediately, and wait for emergency responders to arrive. Even if you believe your injuries are minor, it’s crucial to let medical professionals evaluate you. Some injuries, such as concussions or internal injuries, may not be immediately apparent but can become serious if left untreated. Immediate medical care also establishes documentation of your injuries, which is important if you later decide to pursue a personal injury lawsuit.
Gather Information
Once you’ve attended to your health, gather information about the driver who struck you. Obtain their name, contact details, insurance policy number, and vehicle license plate number. If possible, take clear photos of their driver’s license, insurance card, and vehicle. This information is essential for filing a bicycle accident claim. Additionally, if there were witnesses present at the scene, collect their names and contact information. Witness statements can provide valuable support for your case and may help clarify who was at fault.
Document the Accident Scene
After gathering driver and witness information, take time to document the scene of the accident thoroughly. Make note of specific details about the road conditions, traffic signals, visibility, and any potential hazards like potholes or debris that may have contributed to the accident. Take multiple photos from different angles, capturing details such as the position of the vehicles, any damage to your bicycle, and surrounding traffic signs or signals. If weather conditions may have influenced the accident, document them as well, since they could impact your claim. The more detailed your documentation, the stronger your potential case will be.
Speak With a Bike Accident Attorney
Contact an experienced bicycle accident attorney as soon as possible to discuss your options for pursuing compensation. At our firm, we understand the impact that a bike accident can have on your life, from medical bills to lost income. A knowledgeable attorney can help you navigate the claims process, deal with insurance adjusters, and build a compelling case if you decide to file a personal injury lawsuit. Don’t leave your recovery to chance—let us advocate for the compensation you need to get back on your feet.
Schedule a consultation with us today to explore how we can assist you in moving forward after your bike accident.
After this, obtain medical assistance. Whether it’s from a paramedic arriving at the scene or your own doctor, you need a qualified medical professional to examine you.
Keep in mind that your injuries might not appear right away. It’s also critical that your medical status is documented because those records will be extremely important should you decide to file a claim in court. Finally, hire an experienced personal injury attorney. The legal process of filing a personal injury claim is complex and lengthy. A personal injury attorney can help you navigate the process and seek fair financial compensation.
Have you been injured in a bicycle accident? Don’t navigate the aftermath alone. Contact Ratton Law Group now for a free consultation
Michigan Laws Affecting
Bicycle Riders
Michigan’s laws for bicyclists help ensure safety for all those using the road. While there are no rules yet governing cell phone use while bicycling, there are other laws that Michigan bicyclists must follow.
Pertaining to the Bicycle Rider
Michigan bicyclists must ride as close to the right curb as possible, yield to pedestrians when riding on the sidewalk, use hand signals, and of course, obey all traffic signs. It’s important to abide by all the rules and safety precautions when you’re on the road.
Pertaining to the Vehicle
Drivers must keep at least three feet of distance between their vehicle and a bicyclist. This is the Safe Passing Law that applies to drivers in Detroit, Michigan, and throughout the state.
Filing a Claim
If you were in an accident while riding your bicycle, you can file an insurance claim. It’s important to know these three facts about the law in Michigan.
Michigan Is a No-Fault State
In Michigan, all drivers are required to carry no-fault personal injury protection (PIP) coverage. If you are in a bicycle accident, no matter who is at fault, your auto insurance will reimburse your covered medical bills and other out-of-pocket losses. If you do not have automobile coverage there are other avenues to investigate to pay your medical bills and other accident-related claims. You need to consult with an experienced attorney.
Statute of Limitations
In Michigan, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims is three years meaning that you must file your claim within three years of the date of the accident. There are exceptions that apply to bicyclists under the age of 18.
Bicycle Accident Attorneys
in Detroit, Michigan
An accident can change your life forever. Our team at Ratton Law Group PC in Detroit, Michigan will work to aggressively argue the facts of your case. Two of our attorneys also have degrees in nursing, so we understand the medical field and how it can impact your case. We know just how much an accident can affect your life, and we want to help victims seek fair compensation.
Contact Ratton Law Group PC today for your free consultation.