San Diego Bike Accident Lawyer

Accidents do happen. In San Diego, bike accidents are a regular occurance. That's why we're here. The personal injury attorneys at Estey & Bomberger have helped thousands of injured victims all across California to get whey they deserve when they have been injured by someone or something else. When you are injured by another, you should not have to pay for damages and expenses related to the accident. We have recovered millions of dollars for injured victims and we will everything we can to do the same for you. If you are looking for a bike accident attorney in San Diego, call us today for a free consultation.

What to do if you've been in a bike accident

There is a process to getting through this traumatic event, and it is recommended to remain calm and focus upon information-gathering so you can later file a complete claim.

At the Scene:

• Stop. Remain at the scene. If you think you are injured, it is especially crucial that you stay as still as possible. If you are uninjured, check the others.
• Report the accident to the police, fire department, or paramedics immediately. Give them your location, the number of people involved, and if there are any injuries. If you don’t have a cell phone (or it was destroyed in the accident), ask to borrow a witness’ or anyone’s nearby. You could always go into a local store or business to make the call. Get their contact information just in case they need to be interviewed later by the police.
• Especially if there are injuries, call 911 immediately. Do not try to move them, but follow any guidance give to you over the phone by medical personnel.
• Try to keep the accident scene exactly how it was when the collision occurred. If possible, take pictures with an instamatic to use for developing your claim. Every detail is valid, and could play a crucial role in helping your case.
• Alert other motorists and bicyclists of the accident by placing flares or reflective triangles on the road. Automobile drivers often carry these items in their trunks, so ask around.
• Wait for the police to arrive. It is illegal to flee the scene prior to speaking with an officer to document the accident. If possible, ask witnesses to stick around as well. Their statements could greatly aid your case in the future.
• Take notes on the police and paramedics’ names and badge numbers.
• Request an accident report to be taken. Let them know you would also like a copy.
• Allow a paramedic to examine you, even if you don’t think you are hurt. Injuries may arise later, and your refusal to get examined may be used against you in court.
• Do not answer questions about the accident from anyone except police officers. Do not make general statements or assumptions as to who is at fault, but instead stick to the facts. It is especially important to not speak with the other party, their family, or their insurance company.
• Avoid conflict with the other driver.
• Do not sign anything prepared by the other driver that summarizes the accident.
• If a paramedic was not called to the scene for any reason, seek medical treatment on your own. Tell your doctor exactly what happened, and note all medical problems, even minor ones. Small ailments can develop into serious injuries in a matter of days or weeks. Give detailed descriptions of the injuries and pain. Be sure to take note of how your injuries affect daily tasks, work, or accomplishing schoolwork.

After the Accident:

• It would be in your best interests to create and maintain an accident file. Include all your contacts, notes, and statements. Also keep copies of medical records, bills, transportation expenses, and any other related information.
• Write a written report of the accident yourself. Try to remember as many details as possible. Include the names and contact information of witness and other parties involved.
• Keep multiple copies of these files. The police, insurance companies, and lawyers will undoubtedly request them, so it is easier to keep extras on hand.
• Obtain a police report of the accident.
• Speak to your lawyer as soon as possible. If your accident involved a motorist, your chances of getting a fair claim are not always high. An experienced and aggressive bicycle accident attorney who is familiar with bicycling themselves is your best bet. The San Diego lawyers at Estey & Bomberger have helped hundreds of clients overcome such trauma, and have a proven track record to assist you in achieving the claim you deserve.
• Talk to your insurance company as soon as possible to discuss time limits on filing claims, the expected next steps, and what you need to accomplish to make it all happen.
• Keep a communications log in your records. Note all conversations with lawyers, doctors, specialists, police, and others. Record their names, contact information, what the call was about, the length of the call, and the results of the call.