Steps to take if you are a cyclist in a hit-and-run

Cyclists are at an extreme disadvantage on roadways. They have far less protection than people inside of a car. It is for this reason that the number of bicycle accident fatalities appears to be on the rise in the state, according to a report from The Denver Post.

An accident involving a cyclist becomes even more complicated when the vehicle flees the scene. At this point, it may seem as though there is nothing you can do. Fortunately, you do have options, and you should pursue them to protect your rights.

Get a police report

Even if you did not see the vehicle’s license plate, you should still contact the police to report the accident. The police can surprisingly do a lot with just a little information. If nothing else, an official police report will help with your insurance claim.

Identify witnesses

You may not have gotten a good look at the car, but someone in the vicinity might have. Talk to pedestrians or people in nearby stores to see if they got a better look at the vehicle. Get any eyewitnesses’ contact information. Ask if they would be able to speak to the police and testify in court if it gets to that point.

Receive medical attention

Do not worry about your damaged bike or getting to work on time. After a collision like this, you need to see a doctor immediately. You may insist you feel fine, but there could be internal damage only a doctor can discover.

Notify health and auto insurance companies

Generally, you have 24 hours to notify your auto and health insurance agencies of the incident. You should not have to pay out of your own pocket for medical expenses incurred from someone else’s negligence.

Many drivers seem to have an inherent bias against cyclists for no reason whatsoever. Protect yourself on the road by riding defensively, and protect your rights by taking a negligent driver to court after a hit-and-run.

Category:

• BICYCLE ACCIDENTS