When you’re cycling through the picturesque landscapes of Colorado, the last thing on your mind is a potential accident. However, accidents can and do happen. If you find yourself in the unfortunate situation of a bike accident in Colorado, it’s crucial to know what steps to take immediately afterward to protect yourself legally and physically.
Assess Your Safety
The first and most vital step after a bike accident is to assess your safety and the safety of others involved. If you’re injured, seek medical attention immediately. Even if you feel fine, it’s essential to check for any injuries, as adrenaline can often mask pain. If possible, move to a safe location away from traffic to avoid further accidents.
With You Every Step of the Journey
When you need legal help, Mark Hanchey and Ben Peterson are here to guide you through it all. One step at a time. Reach out today for legal support. Get The Law Firm of Mark S. Hanchey and Ben Peterson fighting for you
Free Consultation Download PDFCall Emergency Services
Once you’ve ensured your safety, it’s time to call emergency services. Dial 911 to report the accident and request assistance. The police will document the scene, which is crucial for any potential legal proceedings. Be sure to provide accurate information about the location of the accident and any injuries sustained.
Gather Information
While waiting for emergency services to arrive, gather as much information as possible about the accident. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other parties involved, including drivers, pedestrians, or other cyclists. Additionally, collect contact information from any witnesses who may have seen the accident occur. Their statements could prove invaluable later on.
Document the Scene
Take photographs of the accident scene, including any damage to your bike, injuries, and surrounding area. These photos can serve as crucial evidence if you need to file a claim or pursue legal action. Be thorough in your documentation, capturing multiple angles and perspectives to provide a clear picture of what happened.
Bridgette Carabajal
I've had the pleasure of working with Mr. Hanchey on two occasions, and each interaction has been nothing short of exceptional. His professional demeanor, coupled with the outstanding support from his staff significantly alleviated any anxieties I had. I am thoroughly satisfied with the outcomes achieved. Should the need for legal representation arise in the future, Mr. Hanchey will undoubtedly be my first choice.
Lucas Garcia
Mark Hanchey has been excellent. I spoke with him last minute before my court date. He still showed up to court with me and was very caring and helped me before I had even officially hired him. I felt like he cared about me and my case. He knows his craft very well and you can tell that the judge and other attorneys respect him when he is in court. He is also very kind. I recommend him to anyone. An excellent attorney.
Renee Braucht
I had an amazing experience with the Hanchey Law Firm! Mr. Hanchey got me the absolute best result I could have imagined for my case. I can’t even tell you how many times I’ve heard, “wow, you must have had a really good lawyer!” when discussing the result. I live far from Colorado Springs, but I will forever make the trip for this firm when I need them! Highly recommend!
David Walker
I have needed to use a lawyer a couple of times over the past several years and have used Mark Hanchey. He is a very down to earth person who has always treated me with dignity and has always been straight forward. His staff has also been professional and friendly. Each time I used Mark Hanchey the result was a positive one. I also think his fees are reasonable. I cant say enough good about Mark Hanchey.
Report the Accident
After receiving medical attention and documenting the scene, it’s essential to report the accident to the relevant authorities. In Colorado, you must report any accident involving injuries, deaths, or property damage exceeding $1,000 to law enforcement. Failure to report the accident could have legal consequences down the line.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you don’t believe your injuries are severe, it’s essential to seek medical attention after a bike accident. Some injuries, such as concussions or internal bleeding, may not present immediate symptoms but could have serious consequences if left untreated. Follow through with any recommended medical treatment and keep detailed records of your injuries and treatment.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Once you’ve received medical attention and reported the accident to the authorities, it’s time to notify your insurance company. Provide them with accurate and detailed information about the accident, including any injuries sustained and damage to your bike or other property. Be cautious when speaking with insurance representatives and avoid admitting fault until you’ve consulted with a legal professional.
Comparative Negligence
In Colorado, bike accidents are often subject to the legal principle of comparative negligence, which means that each party’s degree of fault is taken into account when determining liability. Even if you believe you may have contributed to the accident, you may still be entitled to compensation. An experienced personal injury attorney can help assess the circumstances of your case and advocate on your behalf to ensure your rights are protected.
Preserving Evidence
After a bike accident, it’s essential to preserve any evidence that may support your claim. This includes keeping copies of medical records, repair estimates for your bike, and any correspondence with insurance companies or other parties involved. The more documentation you have, the stronger your case will be when seeking compensation for your injuries and damages.
Understanding Your Rights
As a cyclist in Colorado, you have rights protected by law. These rights include the right to safely share the road with motor vehicles and the right to seek compensation if you’ve been injured due to someone else’s negligence. It’s essential to understand your rights and not to let insurance companies or other parties take advantage of you in the aftermath of an accident.
Dealing with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies are notorious for trying to minimize payouts to accident victims, including cyclists. If you’ve been injured in a bike accident, you may receive a settlement offer from the at-fault party’s insurance company. However, it’s essential to consult with an attorney before accepting any offer, as it may not fully compensate you for your injuries and damages.
Navigating Legal Proceedings
If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations with insurance companies, you may need to pursue legal action through the court system. This process can be complex and time-consuming, requiring extensive documentation, legal arguments, and court appearances. Having a knowledgeable attorney on your side can make all the difference in successfully navigating the legal proceedings.
Seeking Compensation for Damages
In a bike accident case, you may be entitled to various types of compensation for your injuries and damages. This can include medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, property damage, and more. An experienced personal injury attorney can help assess the full extent of your damages and pursue maximum compensation on your behalf.
Protecting Your Future
The aftermath of a bike accident can have long-lasting consequences for your physical, emotional, and financial well-being. By taking proactive steps to protect your rights and seek compensation for your injuries, you can secure a brighter future for yourself and your loved ones. Don’t let the negligence of others derail your life — take action today to hold them accountable.
Promoting Bicycle Safety
In addition to seeking justice for accident victims, it’s essential to promote bicycle safety to prevent future accidents from occurring. This includes advocating for better infrastructure, promoting awareness campaigns, and supporting legislation that protects cyclists’ rights on the road. Together, we can work towards creating a safer environment for cyclists in Colorado and beyond.
Building a Support Network
Recovering from a bike accident can be a challenging and isolating experience, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Reach out to friends, family, support groups, and other resources in your community for help and guidance. Building a strong support network can make all the difference in your recovery journey.
Getting You the Justice You Deserve
If you’ve been injured in a bike accident in Colorado, don’t wait to seek legal guidance. Contact the Law Firm of Mark S. Hanchey today to schedule a consultation with our experienced personal injury attorneys. We’ll fight tirelessly to ensure your rights are protected and help you get the compensation you deserve.