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Bicycle accidents are unfortunately common in Portland. There is always a risk to riding a bike, and many cyclists suffer from serious and debilitating injuries due to negligent drivers and other dangerous conditions.
If you are involved in a bicycle accident, it can be difficult to know what to do next. In these situations, it is important to take steps so that you can protect yourself, seek the help you need, and preserve evidence for your future accident claim.
Oregon follows a fault-based insurance system. If a driver causes a collision and causes injury to any person, he or she is financially liable for any losses that the victim experiences. Cyclists have the right to file a lawsuit or insurance claim against drivers who cause bicycle accidents.
By filing this type of claim, you can recover a settlement to pay for your economic losses, as well as your non-economic pain and suffering. The following are some of the most common forms of damages in bicycle accident cases.
To gather evidence and seek the help you need following the collision, take the following steps immediately after your bicycle collision.
First, call 911 and report the accident to the police. The officer who responds to the scene will create a report that will contain valuable data, such as when the accident occurred; the names and contact information of witnesses and the involved parties; and how the officer believed that the collision happened. Ask for the officer’s name and badge number so that you can find the report later.
Next, seek medical care. Go to the hospital and save all medical records related to your treatment and injuries. Always go to the doctor, even if you do not feel hurt; receiving treatment can help you avoid potentially life-threatening internal injuries. Additionally, failure to seek care could impact your future case.
If you are able, document evidence at the scene of the accident. Take as many photographs and videos as possible of your injuries and property damage. Make sure to document any traffic signs, signals, debris, and other factors related to the collision.
Exchange contact details with any witnesses in the area. Briefly collect the at-fault driver’s contact, license, and insurance information.
After you receive medical care, contact a Portland bicycle accident attorney who can represent your case. Your attorney can carefully evaluate your collision and identify your optimal path to maximum compensation.
Do not speak to anyone about your case until you contact a lawyer—especially the at-fault driver or his or her insurance company. Anything that you say about the accident could harm your claim in the long run. Instead, only discuss the collision with your lawyer.
If you are injured in a Portland bicycle accident, you may be eligible for financial compensation. In these situations, you need a bicycle accident attorney in Portland who can advocate for your best interests and work to secure the settlement that you deserve. As soon as possible following your collision, contact a Portland bicycle accident lawyer who can help you take the first steps toward filing a claim.
