Bicycling is an incredible way to stay active, commute, and explore, but accidents can happen even to the most careful riders. Whether you’re on a city street, a rural road, or a mountain trail, knowing what to do in the event of a bike accident can protect your safety, health, and legal rights.
This guide will walk you through the crucial steps to take after a bicycle accident and provide a list of attorneys and support groups across the U.S. to help you recover.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Bicycle Accident
1. Ensure Your Safety and Check for Injuries
- Move to a safe location if possible, away from traffic or further hazards.
- Assess your injuries and avoid moving if you suspect serious harm. Even minor injuries can worsen without proper care.
2. Call 911 and Report the Bike Accident
- Request emergency medical attention if you or anyone else is injured.
- Ask for law enforcement to document the crash, especially if a motor vehicle is involved. A police report can be critical for insurance claims and legal action.
3. Gather Information at the Scene
- Exchange details with the driver (if involved), including their name, contact information, driver’s license, vehicle registration, and insurance details.
- Document the scene by taking photos of the accident site, your bicycle, vehicle damage, injuries, and any road hazards that may have contributed to the crash.
- Get witness contact information, as their statements can help clarify what happened.
4. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
- Even if you feel okay, some injuries (like concussions or internal injuries) may not show symptoms right away. Getting checked by a doctor can provide medical documentation that may be essential later.
5. Report the Bike Accident to Insurance
- If the accident involved a motor vehicle, notify your auto or health insurance provider.
- Avoid admitting fault or making assumptions about what happened—stick to the facts when providing information.
6. Consult a Bicycle Accident Attorney
- A personal injury attorney experienced in bicycle accidents can help protect your rights, ensure fair compensation, and navigate insurance claims or lawsuits if necessary.
Top Bicycle Accident Attorneys in the U.S.
If you’re injured in a bike accident, a skilled attorney can help you get the compensation you deserve for medical bills, lost wages, and damages. Here are some reputable bicycle accident lawyers across the country:
National and Multi-State Bicycle Accident Law Firms
- Bike Law USA
- Specializes in cycling-related cases nationwide.
- Website: www.bikelaw.com
- Kass & Moses Bicycle Accident Lawyers
- A law firm dedicated to bike injury cases across multiple states.
- Website: www.bicycleaccidentlawyers.com
- Walkup, Melodia, Kelly & Schoenberger
- Experienced in bike accident cases with nationwide reach.
- Website: www.walkuplawoffice.com
Regional Bike Accident Attorneys
- Pacific Northwest:Washington Bike Law – Protecting cyclists’ rights in Washington state.
- Website: www.washingtonbikelaw.com
- California:Bay Area Bicycle Law – The only California law firm exclusively focused on bicycle law.
- Website: www.bayareabicyclelaw.com
- Northeast:Flanzig & Flanzig LLP (New York & New Jersey) – A top firm representing cyclists in NYC and beyond.
- Website: www.nybikelawyer.com
- Midwest:Keating Law Offices (Chicago, IL) – Chicago-based bicycle law specialists.
- Website: www.keatinglegal.com
- Southeast:Dolan Law Firm (Atlanta, GA) – Serving cyclists across Georgia.
- Website: www.dolanlawfirm.com
- Texas:Bike Law Texas – Advocates for injured cyclists in Texas.
- Website: www.bikelaw.com/texas
Support Groups & Resources for Injured Cyclists
If you’ve been in a bike accident, getting support—physically, emotionally, and legally—can be crucial. These organizations advocate for cyclists, provide resources, and connect you with others who have been through similar experiences.
National Cycling Advocacy & Support Groups
- PeopleForBikes – Works to improve cycling infrastructure and policy in the U.S.
- Website: www.peopleforbikes.org
- League of American Bicyclists – Promotes bike-friendly communities and cyclist education.
- Website: www.bikeleague.org
- RoadID Crash Detection & Emergency Alerts – Helps cyclists stay safe and alert emergency contacts in case of an accident.
- Website: www.roadid.com
- National Center for Safe Routes to School – Advocates for safer roads for cyclists and pedestrians.
- Website: www.saferoutesinfo.org
Local Bicycle Coalitions & Support Groups
- San Francisco Bicycle Coalition (CA) – Offers legal resources, safety workshops, and support for injured cyclists.
- Website: www.sfbike.org
- Chicago Bicycle Coalition (IL) – Provides advocacy, support groups, and legal assistance referrals.
- Website: www.activetrans.org
- Bike Pittsburgh (PA) – Works on cycling safety initiatives and provides post-crash resources.
- Website: www.bikepgh.org
- Los Angeles County Bicycle Coalition (CA) – Advocates for cyclists’ rights and offers legal resources.
- Website: www.la-bike.org
- Bicycle Colorado (CO) – Helps injured cyclists find legal support and safety resources.
- Website: www.bicyclecolorado.org
Final Thoughts: Stay Safe & Know Your Rights
Bicycle accidents can be frightening and overwhelming, but knowing what to do in the aftermath can make a significant difference in your recovery and legal protection. Prioritize your safety, document everything, seek medical attention, and don’t hesitate to reach out for legal assistance if needed.
If you or a loved one has been in a bike accident, connecting with an attorney and support groups can help you navigate the challenges ahead. Stay safe, ride smart, and advocate for safer cycling communities.
