How do I Report a Bicycle Accident to Law Enforcement?

When you are involved in a bicycle accident, it can leave you suffering from devastating injuries. Worse, you may not have the tools to get the compensation you need for a full recovery. Many drivers try to pin the blame on the bicyclist, making it hard for you to get compensated fairly.

If you are struggling to get started on your claim, which begins with an accident report, reach out to an experienced Sacramento bicycle accident lawyer at Triumph Law.  We can guide you through the steps of how to report a bicycle accident to law enforcement, and we can be there for you every bit of the way through your case. Read on to learn more about reporting your bicycle accident and how we are only a call or click away.

Filing a Traffic Collision Report

If you are considering pursuing compensation for your accident, one of the first steps you will need to take is to file a traffic collision report. This begins by simply contacting law enforcement in the wake of the accident. Keep in mind that you may need to file this as soon as possible to avoid legal complications in penalties for failing to report an accident.

The SR1 Form

The reporting process for a bicycle accident specifically includes your SR1 form. This form should contain any information needed about what happened and how to contact you. Remember that these forms must always be completed if there were an injury, a death, or property damage of more than $1,000 in your accident.

How Ensures the Protection of Your Rights and Seeks Compensation after a Bicycle Accident?

Following a bicycle accident, you need to ensure your rights are protected and that you have the opportunity to seek compensation. However, when you are injured, it can be difficult to take the right steps towards compensation. Below are just a few specific steps you and your attorney can take following your bicycle collision to protect your rights and get the full recovery you need.

Document the Accident Scene

Following the accident, it is vital to document as much of the scene as possible. Evidence decays or is destroyed over time, especially as the accident scene is cleaned up. Getting photo or video evidence of the exact details of the scene after your crash is crucial.

Gather Evidence

Evidence from the accident scene is only the beginning of the evidence collection you will need to complete. Further evidence includes traffic accident reports, medical records, and even expert witness testimony. These pieces of evidence can be used to prove that your injuries were related to the accident and that the other party was negligent.

Seek Medical Attention

In the immediate aftermath of a bicycle accident, you may feel fine. However, that does not mean you have not suffered injuries. In fact, the adrenaline of being involved in a crash may be preventing you from feeling those injuries.

Because of this, it is vital to seek medical care as soon as possible. Pursuing treatment now can also create a record of the healthcare you have received for your injuries, but protecting your safety should be first priority. Even if you feel okay now, getting medical care can save your life.

Report the Accident

Following your bicycle accident, you also need to report the accident to the authorities. If you fail to report, you may face legal penalties such as fines. Report your accident as quickly as possible, as having the police on the scene can provide useful reports for your case.

It Is Critical to Seek Legal Support After a Bicycle Accident in California

‍Following a bicycle accident in California, getting advice may be your next step. Legal support can provide crucial tools and resources for your case that you may not otherwise have access to. Below are a few ways that we can help bicycle accident victims like you.

Negotiate with Insurers

Insurance companies are for-profit businesses, meaning they will try to protect their business interests. That means your first settlement offer may be much lower than what you are due. Your bicycle accident lawyer can provide the negotiation tools needed for your case.

File a Personal Injury Lawsuit

When you are hurt in a bicycle accident, you may have grounds for a lawsuit. However, you may struggle to file a legal claim without professional support. We can help you pursue a personal injury lawsuit for the many injuries you suffered because of the collision.

California Bicycle Accident FAQ

If you are struggling to get answers in the wake of your bicycle accident, our team is here to help. We offer case-specific guidance to our clients as they need it. You can also check out our most commonly asked questions below while you wait for your consultation.

What Types of Damages Can I Claim in a Bicycle Accident Case?

Bicycle accident damages include economic and non-economic damages. Your economic damages should cover any financial losses you have suffered, such as property damage or medical care. Your non-economic damages under CIV §1431.2 include any intangible suffering you have experienced, such as pain and suffering or emotional trauma.

What if the At-Fault Party does Not Have Insurance?

If the at-fault party does not have insurance, that takes away your opportunity to settle with their insurance company. However, if you carry uninsured driver coverage, you may be able to use your own insurance company. You also always have the opportunity to seek out an attorney to file a lawsuit.

How Long do I Have to File a Bicycle Accident Claim in California?

According to the California Department of Motor Vehicles, if you have been involved in a bicycle accident that led to injury, death, or more than $1,000 in damages, you have 10 days to file a report. You also have two years from the date of the accident to finally sue for your bicycle accident claim under CCP §335.1. If you are struggling to meet these deadlines, reach out to an attorney for help.

How Long Will It Take to Settle My Bicycle Accident Claim?

The length of your bicycle accident claim can vary. For simpler, more straightforward cases, it may be settled in a few months. However, if the insurance company fights back, it may take us longer to pursue compensation.

Can I Still File a Claim if I Was Partially Liable for the Bicycle Accident?

While California’s comparative negligence laws under California Civil Code §1714 can impact your case, you may still be able to file. Comparative negligence laws state that your claim may be reduced if you were partly at fault for the accident. However, this does not prevent you from filing.

Consult a Top-Rated Bicycle Accident Law Firm in California Today

Recovery from a bicycle accident can be difficult. Fortunately, you do not have to act alone. Your respected bicycle accident lawyer at Triumph Law is here to help.

Our team offers support for reporting your accident and beyond. From the initial report to the final verdict, our law office is focused on helping you get compensated fairly. To start with a free consultation, reach out to our team by calling or filling out our online contact form.