**** FREE LEGAL TIP FRIDAY **** TOP 6 THINGS TO DO IF YOU ARE IN A BICYCLE ACCIDENT They say once you learn to ride a bike, you never forget.... but do you know what to do if you are in an accident? Chances are, you don’t Here is a list of 6 things to do if you are struck while on your bike: 1. TAKE PHOTOS – of the scene, of your bike, of your injuries. If you or a witness has a camera, take a lot of photos from different angles to get every perspective. 2. TALK TO THE POLICE ONLY – If a driver tries to talk you out of calling the police, explain to them that you need to call the police to make a report and protect yourself. Do not discuss the accident with the driver, and do not talk to the driver’s insurance company until you have spoken with an attorney to be sure of your rights. 3. GET INFORMATION – from the driver, from the witnesses and from the police. Get the driver’s name, phone number, insurance information, make and model of car and tag information. Ask the witnesses for their names and contact information. Stay on the scene and get information from the police about how to obtain a copy of any report and get their badge number to help locate the report. 4. GO TO THE DOCTOR OR EMERGENCY ROOM IMMEDIATELY – if you are experiencing any pain or have any visible injuries, be sure to see a doctor right away. Sometimes, the pain will not become apparent for a few days after an accident, but it is important to be seen by someone to document your injuries and give you suggestions about future treatments. 5. GET AN ESTIMATE – of your property damage. Take your bike into a shop that will put a number on the amount of damage. Have the bike shop take photos as well. Don’t repair the bike or throw out a broken helmet or any other piece of property (ripped clothes, shoes etc) that may indicate the severity of the accident. 6. SPEAK TO AN ATTORNEY - remember, the insurance company’s primary responsibility is to minimize the amount of money the pay out for a claim. They are not there to make sure you are justly compensated. That is what Newman & McIntosh can do for you. Call us today with any questions or to review your case: 202.638.1331.
Posted on: Fri, 19 Jul 2013 18:10:24 +0000
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