5 Steps to Take if You Are Injured in a Bicycle Crash in Las Vegas

In the last decade, Las Vegas has seen a significant increase in the number of cyclists taking to the roads every day. The city has taken steps to make itself more bicycle-friendly and has reportedly added around 400 miles of bike lanes to the city’s bustling streets. Cycling is a relatively inexpensive, eco-friendly, and healthy way to get around. However, bike accidents are often more severe than automobile accidents, and by some metrics, they are 3.5 times more likely to be fatal. 

As more and more bikes have been mixed in with the city’s everyday vehicle traffic, the rate of bicycle accidents has risen. Las Vegas has been listed as the 3rd most dangerous city for riders, partially due to the city’s higher speed limits. According to local bicycle advocacy organizations, the majority of crashes are caused by an automobile driver’s inattention. While some accidents are minor, many bike crashes can be severe, cause lifelong injuries, or be fatal. Incidentally, it is important that all cyclists are aware of the correct steps to take in the unfortunate case of an accident.

Steps to Take if You Are Injured in a Bicycle Accident

1) Make sure you are in a safe spot: If you are able to move, find a way out to get out of the road. From here, you can evaluate yourself for injuries. The most common injuries are concussions, abrasions (also known as road rash), fractures, dislocations, and strains. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or call for an ambulance.

2) Call 911: It is a good idea to notify the police of an accident even if you don’t feel that you are hurt. Sometimes you may not begin to feel a serious injury until hours after it occurs, and some aches that may feel minor at first can turn out to be lifelong injuries. The police are there to help get the facts straight and can be crucial in the judicial or insurance process. Never try to bargain with the driver or accept money. Some drivers will apologize and take the blame in the moment, but deny everything when their insurance is asked to cover the victim’s medical bills. Report all your injuries to the police, and make sure that your version of events is documented in the official accident report. 

3) Get the information of other parties: Never leave a scene before talking to the other parties involved. Collect the contact information of the driver, including their phone number, address, name, and insurance information. Try and collect the contact information of any witnesses if possible. 

4) Document injuries: It’s important to see a medical professional soon after an accident, and to save any medical records they may give you. This serves as proof of an injury and may be very important in getting compensated for medical bills, lost income, and other issues that are all too common after bicycle accidents. 

5) Reach out to an experienced personal injury lawyer: Sometimes, a simple letter from an experienced Las Vegas bike accident attorney can solve any complications in the legal or insurance process. Many cases like these are settled without going to trial at all. If an attorney from the other party contacts you, it is critical to speak to a knowledgeable Las Vegas personal injury lawyer before responding and saying something that may eventually be used against you. 

Speak With a Las Vegas Bicycle Accident Attorney Today

Bicycle accidents are all too common. If you or a loved one have been injured in a bicycle accident in Las Vegas the Aaron Law Group can help you file a claim against the negligent party for compensation. Contact Aaron Law Group today to schedule a free consultation at (702) 550-1111.