Bicycle accidents involving vehicles can be life-altering events, often leaving cyclists with serious injuries, significant medical bills, and emotional trauma. If you've been hit by a vehicle while riding your bike in South Carolina, it's crucial to take immediate steps to protect your health, safety, and legal rights. In this blog post, we'll guide you on what to do if you are involved in a bicycle accident with a vehicle and explain how a South Carolina bicycle accident lawyer can help you seek the compensation you deserve.

1. Ensure Your Safety and Seek Medical Attention

The first priority after any bicycle accident is your health and safety. Here's what to do immediately:

• Move to a Safe Area: If possible, move out of the road or away from traffic to avoid further injury.
• Call 911: Contact emergency services right away, especially if you are injured. Even if you don't feel seriously hurt, it's important to get checked by medical professionals, as some injuries (like concussions or internal injuries) may not show immediate symptoms.
• Wait for Medical Help: Remain at the scene until paramedics arrive, even if your injuries seem minor. It's important that an official record of your injuries is created.

2. Gather Evidence at the Scene of the Accident

Once you've ensured your safety and sought medical attention, gathering evidence from the scene can be crucial for your case later on. Some key steps to take include:

• Take Photos of the Scene: Document everything – the location of the accident, any visible injuries, damage to your bike, the vehicle involved, traffic signs, road conditions, and any other relevant details.
• Get Contact Information: Collect the name, phone number, and insurance details of the driver, as well as the make, model, and license plate of the vehicle. If there are any witnesses, ask for their contact information as well.
• Write Down Your Account of the Accident: While the details are fresh in your mind, write down your version of events. Record any factors that may have contributed to the accident, such as weather conditions, distracted driving, or improper lane changes.

3. Report the Accident to the Authorities

If law enforcement hasn't already responded to the scene, it's essential to file a police report after the accident. This document serves as an official record of the incident and can be critical when filing a claim. Make sure to:

• Provide Accurate Details: Be honest and clear about what happened, and avoid speculating or admitting fault.
• Request a Copy of the Report: After the report is filed, request a copy from the police department. This can be a vital part of your case when proving liability.

4. Notify Your Insurance Company

Even if the accident was caused by the driver of a vehicle, it's important to inform your own insurance company about the incident. This ensures your coverage options are reviewed and helps protect your ability to recover damages. Some key points to keep in mind:

• File a Claim: If you have bicycle or personal injury protection (PIP) coverage, notify your insurer and file a claim.
• Avoid Settling Too Quickly: Insurance companies may try to offer you a quick settlement, but it's important not to accept any offers before consulting with a lawyer. Accepting an early offer may not fully compensate you for your injuries.

5. Keep Detailed Records of Your Injuries and Expenses

As your recovery progresses, keep careful records of all medical treatments and any expenses related to your injuries. This may include:

• Medical Bills: Keep track of hospital visits, prescriptions, surgeries, physical therapy, and any other medical treatment.
• Lost Wages: If you miss work due to your injuries, document your lost wages and income.
• Pain and Suffering: Keep a journal of how your injuries are affecting your daily life, including emotional and physical challenges.

These records will help build your case and ensure you receive fair compensation for both economic and non-economic damages.

6. Contact an Experienced South Carolina Bicycle Accident Lawyer

After an accident involving a vehicle and a bicycle, it's essential to have an experienced South Carolina bicycle accident attorney by your side. An attorney can:

• Investigate the Accident: Your lawyer will conduct a thorough investigation to determine liability, gather evidence, and identify the responsible parties.
• Communicate with Insurance Companies: Lawyers handle negotiations with insurance companies, ensuring you don't settle for less than you deserve.
• Advocate for Your Rights: If necessary, your attorney can take your case to court to pursue a fair and just outcome, including compensation for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and more.

7. Understand Your Rights as a Cyclist in South Carolina

South Carolina law protects cyclists and grants them the right to ride on most public roads. Drivers are required to give cyclists a safe distance when passing, and they must follow traffic laws to avoid accidents. If you've been hit by a vehicle while cycling, it's important to understand that you may be entitled to compensation based on the following:

• Negligence: If the driver was negligent (speeding, distracted driving, failure to yield, etc.), they may be liable for your injuries.
• Comparative Fault: South Carolina follows a comparative fault rule, which means that if you were partially responsible for the accident, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault. However, even if you were partially at fault, you may still be entitled to compensation.

Contact a South Carolina Bicycle Accident Lawyer Today

If you've been hit by a vehicle while riding your bicycle, the legal team at Hopkins Law Firm is here to help. We understand how overwhelming the aftermath of a bicycle accident can be, and we are committed to helping you recover the compensation you deserve for your injuries, medical expenses, and lost wages.

Contact us today at (843) 314-4202 or through our online form to schedule a free consultation. Our team of experienced bicycle accident lawyers is here to guide you through every step of the legal process and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Disclaimer: This blog post is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. For specific legal advice regarding your motorcycle accident claim, please consult with a licensed South Carolina personal injury attorney.