After a Vancouver bicycle accident, some victims face significant financial strain while they recover from their injuries. A bicycle crash can leave cyclists with horrific injuries due to their lack of protection in a collision with another vehicle or the road. Costly medical bills, coupled with the inability to work, can make a stressful time even worse. Fortunately, bicycle accident victims may have several options to seek compensation for their losses.
The Insurance Corporation of British Columbia (ICBC) offers no-fault benefits to cyclists injured in a bicycle traffic collision. If you’ve been hurt, you might also be eligible to seek compensation by filing a tort claim against the at-fault motorist’s third-party liability insurance provider.
In British Columbia, all motorists must carry at least $200,000 in third-party liability coverage. This type of compensation may be available for medical expenses, lost wages, and repair costs after a bicycle accident under certain circumstances. However, knowing whether you are eligible to sue is complicated. A Vancouver bicycle accident lawyer can help determine your legal options.
Here, the experienced injury lawyers at Warnett Hallen LLP discuss what to do after a bicycle accident to protect your ability to claim the benefits you need. Keep reading or contact us today to learn more in a free consultation.
Wait for the Police to Arrive and Get a Report
Motorists and cyclists in Vancouver must stop and remain at the scene of an accident to exchange information and render aid as necessary. Unless you need emergency medical care, wait for the police to arrive.
When you discuss the details of the bicycle crash with the police, make sure you tell them your side of the story while sticking to the facts. After officers finish the police report, request a copy of it for your records.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
If you sustained significant injuries, seeking timely medical attention is one of the most important steps you can take. Even if your injuries seem relatively minor, it’s essential to get examined and ensure your injuries are correctly diagnosed. Prompt medical treatment also creates a formal record of your medical condition and connects it to the bicycle accident, which will serve as important proof later.
As you heal, be sure to follow your doctor’s recommendations and attend all check-up appointments. Sticking to your treatment protocol demonstrates to insurance companies and other interested parties that you take your health seriously.
Obtain the Driver’s Information
One of the most important aspects of any bicycle accident claim is knowing where to file it. To claim compensation from an at-fault driver, you must first obtain their contact information and insurance details.
When you speak to a motorist after a Vancouver bicycle accident, make sure you record the following information:
- The driver’s name and contact details
- The driver’s license number and province
- Their vehicle make, model, and license plate number
- Their auto insurance provider and policy number
Never Negotiate with the Motorist
Some motorists want to avoid insurance or police involvement and may attempt to negotiate with you directly after an accident. Even if the driver seems apologetic or makes an attractive offer, don’t fall for this tactic. Agreeing to an informal, off-the-books settlement could come back to haunt you later.
It’s always best to report accidents as required by law and seek compensation through the appropriate insurance and legal channels.
Obtain Witness Information
If any eyewitnesses saw the bicycle accident occur, obtain their contact information. Ask for statements about what happened and write down their responses along with their names and contact details. This way, you will have a record of their reaction to the crash and a way for your bicycle accident lawyer to contact them for formal statements later. Witnesses could also provide supporting testimony if your case goes to trial.
Document What Happened and Keep Evidence
Take pictures of the crash site if you can. Try to capture the scene from as many angles as possible, as well as any supporting photos of skid marks, road obstructions, or other evidence that tells the story of how the bicycle accident occurred. Retain other proof such as the clothing and helmet you were wearing at the time of the crash, photos of bicycle damage, pay stubs, medical bills, and receipts from other accident-related expenses.
Also, take photographs of visible injuries immediately after the accident and as they heal. This can help you demonstrate the nature and severity of your injuries and the amount of time you suffered from their effects.
Finally, write down everything you can remember about the bicycle crash and how it occurred while the memories are still fresh. If your injuries make it challenging to write, ask a friend or family member for help.
Never Negotiate with the Insurance Company
ICBC may make an appealing initial settlement offer hoping that you will accept less than you deserve. It can be hard to turn down quick cash when you’re facing overwhelming medical bills, but you should never negotiate directly with the insurance company yourself. Once you accept a settlement offer, you can’t go back and ask for more money later on, even if you discover new injuries or symptoms related to the accident.
A knowledgeable bicycle accident lawyer from Warnett Hallen LLP can help you calculate a reasonable estimate for your claim and demand fair compensation for your losses. Once our legal team determines the value of your claim, we can negotiate aggressively with the insurance company while you focus on your recovery.
Talk to a Vancouver Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today
At Warnett Hallen LLP, a dedicated Vancouver bicycle accident lawyer can help you file an ICBC claim and determine whether you have a tort claim against the negligent motorist. Contact us to discuss the details of your bicycle accident case with a compassionate and attentive team member today. The first consultation is free.
