If you have the misfortune of being involved in a crash, it can be overwhelming and you may not know what to do. When your blood is pumping, your mind is racing, and you may be injured, the last thing you want to do is have to Google what to do. Below are our steps for the best actions to take after a collision.
Before we start, we always recommend carrying your cell phone, ID, a listed emergency contact, and something to write with/on in case your phone is broken. A bracelet like a RoadID can provide your information, emergency contacts and allergy information if needed.
- Do not immediately move – you may be more injured than you think.
- Dial 911. Request the police and an ambulance to your location.
- Leave your bike in the same state it was after the crash. Take pictures of the scene, including your bike, any damage to yourself, damage to the motor vehicle, and license plate number.
- Obtain the contact information of any witnesses.
- Always wait for the police to arrive and file an official report.
- Get the business card of the officer. Write your report number on the card in addition to getting a copy.
- Immediately seek medical attention. When in doubt, go to the ER!
- Never negotiate with the driver of the vehicle at the scene of the crash, regardless of who may be at fault. Get the driver’s name and their insurance and contact information, along with the names and contacts of any passengers. You may discover additional injuries or destruction to property after the crash.
- Make no statement to insurance until you talk to a lawyer.
Involved in a crash or want to report a close call? Submit your report on our website.
Data collected from the Close Call form can help us and agency partners assess potential conflict points and the frequency of near misses (or unreported crashes) involving bicyclists, pedestrians and motor vehicle drivers. Bicycle and pedestrian related crashes are under reported and this offers another way to address persistent issues.
If you have encountered a dangerous road hazard call 311 or visit our Report Hazards and Issues page. In an emergency, please call 911.
Riding bikes comes with risks — like all vehicles. If you have been in a crash involving a bicycle and aren’t sure where to begin, contact the Law Offices of Joseph J. Steffen, Jr. for a free consultation.
Joseph J. Steffen Jr is an avid cyclist who specializes in local bicycle law, and serves on the board of Bike Walk Savannah. His focus and passion is for safe cycling for you and your family here in the Southeast, knowing the challenges of working with police officers on their reports, and picking an unbiased jury panel at trial that will understand a cyclists right to SHARE THE ROAD.
Visit joesteffen.com/bicycle-law for more information.
This blog post is produced thanks to support from the Governor’s Office of Highway Safety.
IT HAPPENED almost 13 years ago. On Aug. 27 2005, I was hit by a car while riding my bike.