Bicycling is a fun, healthy way to get around, but it can also be dangerous. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2015 there were 818 bicyclists killed in traffic crashes and an estimated 45,000 injured. If you or someone you love is hit by a car while riding a bike, it’s important to know what to do. Here are some tips on how to help your loved one recover after a bicycle accident.
Seek Legal Representation
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The first thing you should do after your loved one is involved in a bicycle accident is to seek legal representation. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you navigate the complex legal process and get the compensation your loved one deserves. If you’re in Florida, consulting with a Spring Hill personal injury attorney might be your best option. A reputable attorney will be able to answer any questions you have and help you understand your rights. An attorney will also:
- Investigate the accident and gather evidence: This includes talking to witnesses, reviewing police reports, and collecting evidence from the scene of the accident.
- Handle all communication with the insurance companies: After an accident, you’ll likely be dealing with insurance adjusters who will try to lowball you on your settlement. An attorney will handle all communication with the insurance companies so you don’t have to worry about it.
- Negotiate a fair settlement: If the insurance company won’t give you a fair settlement, your attorney will take them to court.
- Prepare for trial: If your case goes to trial, your attorney will be by your side every step of the way.
Get Medical Treatment
Even if your loved one doesn’t seem to be seriously injured, it’s important to get medical treatment right away. Some injuries, such as concussions, might not be immediately apparent. A doctor can conduct a thorough examination and order tests, if necessary. Getting prompt medical treatment is also important for documenting the injuries sustained in the accident. Insurance companies often try to downplay the severity of an injury, so having detailed medical records can be crucial in getting fair compensation.
Follow Up With Doctor’s Appointments
After being released from the hospital, your loved one will likely have follow-up appointments with their doctor. It’s important to make sure they go to all of these appointments and follow the doctor’s orders. This will not only ensure they’re on the road to recovery, but it will also provide more documentation of the injuries sustained.
Start Physical Therapy
Physical therapy can be an effective treatment for many different types of injuries. A physical therapist can help your loved one regain strength and mobility. They’ll also teach them exercises to help prevent further injury. If your loved one is having trouble paying for physical therapy, some personal injury attorneys offer free consultations to discuss your options.
Give Them Time to Heal
Recovering from a bicycle accident takes time. Your loved one might be in pain and have a lot of other things on their mind. It’s important to be patient and give them time to heal both physically and emotionally. If you need help taking care of your loved one, don’t hesitate to ask for help from family and friends.
Mental Health Support
After a traumatic event like a bicycle accident, your loved one might be dealing with anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). It’s important to get them the mental health support they need. If you’re not sure where to turn, your doctor or attorney can likely provide you with some resources.
- Psychotherapy: Psychotherapy is a type of therapy that can help your loved ones deal with their emotions. A therapist can help them process the accident and any trauma they might have experienced.
- Group Therapy: Group therapy can be helpful for people who are struggling to cope with their injuries. In group therapy, people share their experiences and offer support to each other.
- Support Groups: There are also many support groups available for people who have been in a bicycle accident. These groups provide a safe space for people to share their stories and connect with others who understand what they’re going through.
File A Personal Injury Claim
If your loved one was injured in a bicycle accident that was caused by someone else, they might be entitled to compensation. A personal injury claim can help cover the cost of medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. An experienced personal injury attorney can evaluate your case and help you get the compensation you deserve. The steps to filing a claim include:
- Gather evidence: To file a personal injury claim, you’ll need to gather evidence of the accident. This can include photos of the scene, witness statements, and medical records.
- Hire an attorney: An experienced personal injury attorney can help you navigate the legal process and get the compensation you deserve.
- File a claim: Once you have gathered all the necessary evidence, you’ll need to file a claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company.
- Negotiate a settlement: If the insurance company denies your claim or offers a low settlement, your attorney can negotiate on your behalf.
- Go to trial: If you and the insurance company can’t reach a settlement, your case will go to trial. Your attorney will represent you in court and help you get the compensation you deserve.
Spend Time With Them
Recovering from a bicycle accident can be a long and difficult process. Your loved one will need your support to get through it. Spend time with them, and let them know you’re there for them. Help them with their recovery, and be patient as they heal both physically and emotionally. You can even do small things to help, like bringing them meals or running errands for them.
No one ever expects to be in a bicycle accident. But if it does happen, it’s important to know what to do. By following these tips, you can help your loved one recover physically and emotionally. And if the accident was caused by someone else, you might be able to get them compensation for their injuries.
