Legally Speaking: 10 Steps to Protect Yourself in an Accident

It is very important to protect yourself in case of an accident while riding your bike. Everything you do, or don’t do, after a crash can affect you legally. Check out this list of 10 things you can do to help protect yourself in case of an accident.

[icon_list_item type=”check-square-o”]Ride with a cell phone, personal identification, emergency contact, and something to write with.[/icon_list_item]

[icon_list_item type=”check-square-o”]Dial 911: call the police or an ambulance immediately. If you are unable to do so, ask someone to help.[/icon_list_item]
[icon_list_item type=”check-square-o”]Always wait for the police to arrive and file an official accident report. A police report provides documentation detailing the incident, including the identity of witnesses.[/icon_list_item]
[icon_list_item type=”check-square-o”]Get the business card of the officer.[/icon_list_item]
[icon_list_item type=”check-square-o”]Leave your bike in the same state it was after the accident, if possible. It is best if the police see the accident scene undisturbed.[/icon_list_item]
[icon_list_item type=”check-square-o”]Obtain the contact information of any witnesses.[/icon_list_item]
[icon_list_item type=”check-square-o”]Immediately seek medical attention, either at the scene, the emergency room, hospital or doctor’s office. When in doubt go to the ER! Give all complaints to the doctor. Medical records are proof that you were injured and document the extent of your injuries.[/icon_list_item]
[icon_list_item type=”check-square-o”]Take photos of injuries and keep a diary of how you feel after the accident.[/icon_list_item]
[icon_list_item type=”check-square-o”]Never negotiate with the driver of the vehicle, regardless of who may be at fault. Get the driver’s name and his or her insurance information, along with the names of any passengers.[/icon_list_item]
[icon_list_item type=”check-square-o”]Give no written or recorded statements to anyone.[/icon_list_item]

Those looking to keep this information close at hand can contact me to receive a sticker you can place on your top tube, or anywhere else you find handy.

Photo by Salim Virji via Flickr