Accidents are bad and while we certainly hope you are fortunate enough to never have one, we do want you to be prepared in the event something happens to you or a fellow rider while you are out on two wheels. Here are a few things you can do to best protect yourself both before and after a crash.

 

BEFORE AN ACCIDENT

 

• Protect Yourself: Wear a helmet.

• Carry Identification: Bring an ID, emergency contact and insurance information with you.

• Ride with Others: Ride in groups of two or more and share everyone's emergency contact information.

• Get Insurance: Maintain uninsured / under insured coverage on your auto insurance policy.  

• Be Smart & Aware: Take a CyclingSavvy course.

 

AFTER AN ACCIDENT

 

• Take Stock: Did you hit your head? Can you remember your name and the date? If you are with someone who crashes, these are important questions to ask. If you are alone and able to see and speak, please call for help and move out of the road if possible.

• Call 911 and Request that A Police Officer be Dispatched to the Scene of the Crash: Once the paramedics arrive, please communicate as clearly as possible with the paramedics. Ask the responding police officer to write up a traffic collision report. If a police report is not filed, you may face difficulties in filing an insurance claim. Get the business card of the responding police officer for reference.

• Exchange Information: Get the following information from the driver, witnesses, and all parties involved: name, address, phone number, driver’s license number, license plate number, car make and model, and insurance information. Never negotiate with the driver of the vehicle - no matter who may be at fault.

• Preserve Evidence

  • Use your phone to take photos of your injuries, your bike, and the scene of the crash. This way, you can show the pictures to your bike injury lawyer later.

  • Put everything in writing: make notes as detailed as possible regarding date, time, place, how the crash occurred, and any information regarding your case.

  • Draw a diagram of the positions of everyone involved in the crash.

  • Keep and photograph your clothing, gear, and any accessories you were wearing when during the crash. Do not wash them.

  • It is important to take photos of your bike before it is taken to a bike shop for an estimate of damages or repairs.

• Have A Check-up With Your Doctor: Symptoms from injuries sustained in a crash may not show up immediately. Following up with your doctor after a crash provides a detailed record of your injuries that will assist your attorney in a personal injury claim.

• Seek Legal Advice From A Cycling Lawyer: Call the lawyers at AgnewBrusavich at (310) 928-9081 for a free case evaluation with one of their experienced and trusted bicycle accident attorneys, even if you only suffered minor injuries. They will help you determine the best options and protect your rights.

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BIG ORANGE CRASH FUND

 

If you are a member of Big Orange and have been in an accident where your team kit, helmet, or bike have sustained damage, contact us about the Crash Fund.