Top 5 Mistakes Bikers Make After an Accident and How a Lawyer Can Help

1. Thomas Forsyth - Bicycle Attorney TOP 5 MISTAKES BIKERS MAKE AFTER AN ACCIDENT AND HOW A LAWYER CAN HELP

2. Mistake 1: Failing to Seek Medical Attention Immediately After a bicycle accident, you may feel unhurt or consider your injuries minor. However, some injuries—such as concussions or soft tissue damage—can take time to show symptoms. Failing to seek medical attention promptly could weaken your legal case, especially if your condition worsens. Seeking immediate medical care not only ensures your well-being but also creates crucial documentation for any potential legal claims. A bicycle injury lawyer can help ensure that all medical records and diagnoses are properly documented, which is essential for proving liability compensation. In California, personal injury claims must be filed within two years, but taking swift action is vital. Delaying medical treatment or legal consultation can greatly affect the outcome of your case, making it harder to recover lost wages, medical expenses, and other damages. A lawyer can guide you through the legal complexities and negotiations with insurance companies, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. and securing fair

3. Mistake 2: Not Reporting the Accident to Authorities In the urgency following an accident, many cyclists fail to call the police, a mistake that can leave them without official documentation. This lack of evidence makes proving liability more challenging later. According to the California Office of Traffic Safety, nearly 65% of bicycle accidents involve motor vehicles, yet many go unreported or lack proper documentation. Reporting the accident to the authorities ensures that an official report is filed, which is crucial for establishing fault. A bike injury lawyer can use this report to strengthen your case, whether negotiating with insurance companies or presenting evidence in court. Having an official record also helps ensure that your case is properly handled by local authorities, improving your chances of securing fair compensation. Additionally, police reports provide details like witness statements and accident conditions, which can be critical in legal proceedings. Without this documentation, insurance companies may downplay your claim, making it harder to recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

4. Mistake 3: Admitting Fault at the Scene After an accident, it's easy to become flustered and say something you might regret, such as admitting fault. Even if you believe you made a mistake, it’s crucial not to verbally acknowledge it at the scene, as anything you say can be used against you in court. California follows a comparative fault rule, meaning you could be partially responsible for the accident, but admitting fault may reduce your chances of securing compensation. Instead, stay calm and focus on gathering evidence at the scene, like taking photos, getting witness statements, and collecting other relevant details. This documentation will be vital to your case later on. A bike injury lawyer can assist in navigating the legal complexities, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you’re not unfairly held responsible for the accident. They will work to build a strong case, fighting for fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

5. Mistake 4: Settling Too Quickly with Insurance Insurance companies are known for offering quick settlements after an accident, often aiming to minimize costs rather than provide fair compensation. Cyclists who aren’t fully aware of the extent of their injuries or future medical needs may settle too quickly and accept less than what they’re entitled to. Studies show that accident victims who hire a bike injury lawyer typically receive much higher settlements than those who settle on their own. With an attorney's assistance, you can ensure that all your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future expenses are accurately considered. A lawyer will handle negotiations with insurance companies, gather crucial evidence, and advocate for your best interests, helping to secure the full compensation you deserve. They will also ensure that no aspect of your claim, including potential long-term care, is overlooked.

6. Mistake 5: Failing to Document Evidence and Witnesses In the heat of the moment after an accident, you might forget to collect vital evidence, such as photos of the scene, witness contact information, or even the damage to your bicycle. Without this evidence, proving your case can become significantly more difficult. A bike injury lawyer can help you understand what to document and how to properly preserve evidence that strengthens your claim. They will also assist in identifying and contacting witnesses who can provide testimony on your behalf. In California, bicycle accidents often involve complex factors like road conditions, traffic laws, and sometimes even e-bikes. Proper documentation ensures that all aspects of your case are covered and that liability is thoroughly proven. Without key evidence, insurance companies and courts may downplay your claim, leaving you with inadequate compensation. A lawyer will make sure that everything, from medical records to accident reports, is carefully preserved to support your case and protect your rights throughout the legal process.

7. How a Bike Injury Lawyer Can Help You Having an experienced bike injury attorney by your side can make all the difference when it comes to securing compensation after an accident. My team and I, Thomas Forsyth, have years of experience fighting for cyclists in California. We understand the intricacies of California’s bicycle accident laws and can navigate the complex legal system to ensure your rights are fully protected. A bike injury lawyer will help you with: ● Legal Representation: Managing your case with efficiency and effectiveness in court. ● Insurance Negotiations: Advocating for a fair settlement and protecting you from lowball offers. ● Expert Advice: Clarifying your legal rights and helping you understand the full value of your claim. ● Witness and Evidence Management: Gathering all necessary documentation to strengthen your case and ensure proper legal handling. ● Case Evaluation: Offering an in-depth review of your case to determine the best legal strategy and possible outcomes. ● Medical Referrals: Connecting you with trusted healthcare providers who specialize in bike accident injuries, ensuring you receive the best care. With a skilled attorney, you gain a dedicated advocate who will protect your interests and fight for fair compensation throughout the entire legal process.

8. Meet Our Lawyer THOMAS FORSYTH Bicycle Attorney

9. Contact Us https://bicycleattorney.net/ +1 626-720-4411 With law offices in Pasadena, CA and San Jose, CA, Thomas Forsyth has over 25 years of experience representing cyclists in bicycle accident cases. He covers expert fees and filing costs, working on a contingency basis—no fees unless you win. Thomas has successfully handled thousands of cases, securing fair settlements for his clients. He proudly serves cyclists in Pasadena, San Jose, Silicon Valley, the San Francisco Bay Area, Oakland, Berkeley, Southern California, Palm Springs, Palm Desert, and surrounding areas.Call 24/7 for a free, confidential consultation. Evening and weekend calls are welcome. forsythlaw@gmail.com 215 N. Marengo Ave., 3rd Floor Pasadena, California 91101 2033 Gateway Place, Suite 500, San Jose, California 95110