A recent article from the New York Post reports on a series of crashes in New York City that resulted in one fatality, significant vehicle damage, and police involvement. The incidents highlight the increasing dangers on urban roads and underscore the importance of understanding one’s rights and responsibilities following a traffic accident, including those involving bicycles. Sadly, on Friday, June 7, 2024, a bicyclist was killed by a driver in New York City. The cyclist had rented a Citi bicycle to ride around the city and while making a turn, was struck by a beer delivery truck. The truck driver remained at the scene of the accident, but sadly, emergency services were unable to revive the cyclist.
It is crucial to know more about how to remain safe while biking, especially in the city. Furthermore, if you are ever involved in an accident, reach out to a skilled New York City, NY bicycle accident lawyer to ensure your rights are protected.
What To Do At The Scene Of A Bicycle Accident
Experiencing a bicycle accident can be traumatic and overwhelming. In the immediate aftermath, it is crucial to remain calm and take specific steps to ensure your safety, gather essential information, and protect your legal rights. Here are key actions to take at the scene of a bicycle accident.
Ensure Safety First
Your immediate priority should be your safety and the safety of others involved. If you are able, move out of the way of traffic to a safer location. Check yourself for injuries and call 911 if you or anyone else needs urgent medical attention. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s wise to seek medical evaluation as some injuries may not be immediately apparent.
Call The Police
Report the accident to the police. Having an official police report is critical for any future legal claims or insurance processes. When the officers arrive, provide them with an accurate account of what happened. Ensure that the police report includes all relevant details and that you get a copy or obtain the report number for future reference.
Gather Information
Collecting information at the scene is vital. Obtain the name, address, phone number, driver’s license number, and insurance details of any drivers involved. If there are witnesses, ask for their names and contact information. Their accounts can be invaluable for your case. Note the make, model, color, and license plate number of the vehicles involved. Get the name and badge number of the responding officers.
Document The Scene
Use your phone to take photos and videos of the scene, including your bicycle and any damage it sustained, the vehicles involved and their positions relative to the accident, any visible injuries you have, skid marks, road conditions, traffic signs, and signals. Capture anything else that might be relevant to understanding how the accident occurred. This information could be useful for the New York City bicycle accident lawyers who are handling your case.
Do Not Admit Fault
In the chaos following an accident, it can be easy to say something that might be construed as admitting fault. Even if you feel you might have contributed to the accident, avoid making statements that could be used against you later. Let the facts speak for themselves and allow the investigation to determine fault.
Seek Medical Attention
Even if you don’t feel seriously injured, it is crucial to see a doctor as soon as possible after the accident. Some injuries, like concussions or internal injuries, may not manifest immediately. A prompt medical examination ensures that your injuries are documented, which is essential for any legal claims.
Contact A Bicycle Accident Lawyer
After addressing immediate concerns, reach out to a specialized bicycle accident lawyer. These attorneys have the expertise to navigate the complexities of personal injury law and can help you secure the compensation you deserve. They can assist with investigating the accident by gathering and preserving evidence, interviewing witnesses, and working with experts to reconstruct the accident. They can handle communications and negotiations with insurance companies to ensure you receive a fair settlement. Additionally, they can represent you in court if a fair settlement cannot be reached and a lawsuit becomes necessary.
The Importance Of Legal Support
Navigating the aftermath of a bicycle accident can be daunting. An experienced New York City bicycle accident attorney can provide invaluable support, guiding you through the legal process, and advocating on your behalf. They understand the unique challenges faced by cyclists and are committed to helping you achieve the best possible outcome.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a bicycle accident, don’t hesitate to seek professional legal assistance from The Eskesen Law Firm. We have won many different types of cases like this, and will be able to represent you in or out of court. Protect your rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you need to recover and move forward with your life.
