With e-bikes becoming more popular in Fort Lauderdale, there has been a steady increase in the number of accidents involving them. Whether it is a collision with a car or a pedestrian, victims often suffer painful injuries, leading to loss of income and rising medical debt.
However, there are things you can do immediately following the collision that can aid in your recovery, both financially and physically. Below, our e-bike accident lawyers in Fort Lauderdale explain the actions you should take to secure your healthy recovery and micromobility crash claim. If you have any questions, aFort Lauderdale bicycle accident attorney can help.
I: Your Immediate Safety and Medical Care
Following any motor vehicle collision, you should move to a safe location. Try to get to the side of the road away from any oncoming traffic. If your injuries prevent you from moving, or moving itself may put you in further danger, stay put until emergency services arrive.
Your next priority should be to seek immediate medical attention. In Fort Lauderdale, that would be the emergency room at Broward Health. E-bike accident victims can suffer such injuries as traumatic brain injuries (TBI), fractures, road rash, and spinal injuries. Your doctors can diagnose your injuries and start you on a treatment program.
Obtaining medical care immediately after the crash is critical for your recovery and the strength of your claim. Any delay between the accident and medical care can be used by the insurance companies to undervalue or deny your claim.
II. Call 911 and File an Accident Report
From the accident scene, you should call 911. Let the operator know what has happened and who is injured. When the Fort Lauderdale Police arrive, they will create a police report on the accident. This document contains very important information, which can be useful for your bike lane injury claim, such as:
- Parties involved with their contact and insurance information
- Vehicle information
- Injuries reported and property damage
- The officer’s assessment of the accident, including any citations given
This police report will help to establish fault in your accident.
III. Document the Accident Scene and Gather Evidence
Again, if your injuries allow you to move and you can do so without placing yourself in further harm, you should take photos and videos of:
- Your injuries
- The vehicles involved
- Road conditions and traffic signals
If it’s possible, you could also collect contact information from the other driver and any witnesses. Plus, you want to hold onto any damaged equipment, such as your helmet, e-bike, accessories, and personal effects.
All of these can be used as evidence in your e-bike accident claim.
IV. Avoid Common Mistakes After an Electric Bicycle Accident
Now, in addition to all the things you should do, there are a couple of things you should avoid doing. To reiterate its importance, you do not want to delay seeking medical treatment. Do not make assumptions about your health. See a doctor as soon as possible. You may have underlying issues that could worsen without a proper diagnosis. And as stated before, any delay in treatment can undermine the veracity of your claim.
Next, you want to be very careful with what you say. Do not admit fault or apologize after the accident. Do not give a recorded statement after the accident without speaking to a lawyer first. And avoid posting anything on social media for the time being.
The insurance companies are looking for every possible way to devalue your claim, and they will exploit every error in judgment you make to do so. Plus, as the victim, you are not the best source for determining fault. There may be other factors that contributed to the accident that you are unaware of. Instead, allow yourpersonal injury lawyer to investigate the accident to build your claim.
V. Follow Your Doctor’s Orders
Once you have received a diagnosis and started a treatment plan, you must follow through on it completely. You need to attend all appointments, take all your medications, and regularly communicate with your doctor about your progress. These actions allow you the best chance for recovery.
You should also be aware of the legal ramifications of missing parts of your treatment. Any lapse in treatment is another opportunity the insurance companies can use against your claim.
VI. Reach Out to an E-Bike Accident Attorney
We also advise that you consider speaking with an attorney. Most personal injury attorneys offer a free case consultation where they can listen to your side of the story and explain your legal options. If you hire an attorney, they can step in and manage your claim, allowing you to recover stress-free. They can:
- Investigate the accident scene
- Collect and preserve evidence before it is lost or destroyed
- Suggest medical doctors for your recovery
- Determine your damages, such as pain and suffering, medical bills, and lost wages
- Navigate the complex insurance coverage in bicycle accidents, such as yourpersonal injury protection (PIP) policy
- Explain howcomparative negligence may affect your claim
- File claims with all liable parties
- Negotiate on your behalf for the best possible settlement
- File your lawsuit before thestatute of limitations expires
- Represent you at a trial if you cannot reach a fair settlement
You deserve it for yourself to learn more about your case and how a lawyer may be able to help.
Call the Law Offices of Wolf & Pravato Today
After your e-bike accident, you should prioritize your health and safety. That means calling 911 and seeing a doctor immediately. Any delays or gaps in these suggested actions can have serious consequences for your physical recovery and financial compensation.
The e-bicycle accident attorneys with our law firm are here to assist you through the legal process, removing any stress and uncertainty you may have. Call (844) 643-7200 for your free case consultation. Plus, we work on contingency, so you pay nothing unless we win.
Call us today.