What to Do After a Bicycle Accident in Rolla

No matter how it happens, an accident can have long-lasting impacts on everyone involved. This is especially true if a cyclist is harmed in an accident. In such cases, it is essential to know how to handle the situation with a clear head, even during the most emotional moments.

At AW Smith Law, we have seen all kinds of accidents and their effects on victims and their families. Our bike crash attorneys could help you understand what to do after a bicycle accident in Rolla and seek compensation if you have been injured.

First Step: Ensure Your Safety or the Safety of Others

One of the most important things you can do after a Rolla bicycle accident is ensure your safety. This typically involves moving yourself or others out of the road. We understand that it is not always possible to move a victim or yourself if injured. If this is the case, stay put and call 911.

Step Two: Report the Accident

After a Rolla bicycle crash, contacting 911 is essential. In general, those involved in an accident have 30 days to file a police report if:

Someone is injured or killed
There is property damage that exceeds $500

Mo. Rev. Stat. § 303.040 also clarifies that accidents should be reported to the Missouri Driver License Bureau if an uninsured motorist was involved or the incident happened less than a year ago.

In most cases, the police will automatically file a report at the scene of an accident. However, it is up to those involved to ensure it has been filed.

Step Three: Seek Medical Attention

Even if you do not suspect serious injury, it is still essential to get thoroughly checked by a medical team following your bike wreck in Rolla. Immediately after an accident, adrenaline may reduce pain, leading you to think you are unharmed. Other injuries, including internal injuries, may not appear for hours or days.

On-site medical teams will assess the accident scene and examine everyone involved with extra care. They are trained to recognize the injuries that may occur during a bicycle accident and can notify the emergency room if injuries are severe.

Step Four: Gather Scene Information

After an assessment by a medical team, exchange information with other individuals and witnesses involved in the accident. Some key information to obtain includes:

Name
Address
Phone numbers
License plate (if a vehicle was involved)
Insurance information
Photographs of the scene

In the days following your Rolla bicycle accident, keep up with protective clothing, your damaged bicycle, and all other things related to the incident. These items can serve as evidence should you file a claim against the at-fault party’s insurance.

Step Five: Never Admit Fault

Missouri is an at-fault state, meaning your responsibility for an accident can affect the compensation available to you. Rolla bicycle wreck victims can seek compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurance, which legally should have a minimum of:

$25,000 per person for bodily injury
$50,000 per accident for bodily injury
$25,000 per accident for property

Insurance coverage can help with recovery costs. However, if it does not cover all injury expenses or a loss of life, speak with an attorney who could help you pursue fair compensation from the responsible driver.

Step Six: Contact AW Smith Law for Information Regarding What to Do After a Bicycle Accident

Knowing what to do after a bicycle accident in Rolla is not easy. AW Smith Law understands the emotional and physical toll that these wrecks can take on victims, and we are dedicated to securing the best possible outcomes for our clients’ injury claims. We offer free consultations and sometimes work on a contingency basis. Contact us to learn more.