Increasingly in recent years, cycling has become very popular – and for good reason. It’s a great way to get exercise, save money on gas, reduce pollution, and simply have fun. Many cities across the country are recognizing the benefits of bicycling by creating trail systems and bike lanes, and many cyclists are making good use of them. While cycling is a wonderful and healthy option, it is important to remain aware that any time you share the roadways with other vehicles, there is a risk of being involved in an accident. All too often, in the case of cyclists, some of those accidents can, unfortunately, be hit-and-run accidents. The question is – what do you do if you find yourself in this situation?
Here are a few helpful tips:
- Seek Medical Treatment: Certainly, if you have been injured as a result of your accident, the first and most important step you can take is to seek medical treatment. After any accident, even one in which you feel like you may not have sustained injuries that require medical treatment, it is still very important to seek an evaluation from a medical professional. When you see your medical provider, advise the provider that you were in an accident, explain the circumstances, and receive a thorough evaluation, so that you can begin receiving any treatment you may need.
- File a Police Report: Filing a police report after any motor vehicle accident is always essential. The police can investigate the scene, gather facts, speak to witnesses, and create an accident report that may later be very important and helpful evidence in any claim that you file.
- Document the Scene and Look for Witnesses: If you are able, taking any pictures of the scene, and getting the names and contact information of any witnesses can be extremely helpful to any future investigation conducted or lawsuit filed.
- Inform your Insurance Company: Depending upon the type of insurance you have, your accident may be covered. In an ideal scenario, the driver who hit you will be identified and held liable, but it can never hurt to cover your bases and be certain that you are working effectively toward obtaining the compensation you need and deserve after an accident.
- Retain a Lawyer: The importance of this last step can’t be overstated. Having a knowledgeable and experienced attorney on your side who understands the law pertaining to hit-and-run accidents can make all the difference as you seek the compensation you deserve. A lawyer who understands accident law will be able to listen to your story and advise you as to what types of damages may be available in your case. That attorney should also be able to help you craft the best legal strategy to work toward obtaining the most value for your claim.
Being in an accident can certainly be a shocking and unsettling experience. It doesn’t have to be an experience that you face alone, however. Following these helpful tips and having a legal team on your side that can fight for you and help you assert your rights can make all the difference in how quickly you can put the accident past you and move forward toward a brighter and better chapter ahead. At Roden Law, that’s where we come in.
CALL RODEN LAW TODAY
If you are the victim of a hit-and-run accident, you may feel overwhelmed. You may be angry. You may be worried and anxious, wondering how you will afford to pay the medical bills that keep coming in, while also trying to focus on healing and recovery. All of those feelings are normal and understandable. At Roden Law, our dedicated and experienced team of accident attorneys understand the complex emotions and circumstances that accident victims face – and we know how to help. We understand the law, and we know how to use that knowledge to pursue the best legal strategies on your behalf. We’ll fight for the maximum amount of compensation you deserve, and we’ll keep you informed and involved in your case every step of the way. Call us today to discuss your case and learn how we might be able to help. We look forward to speaking with you soon.
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