Steps To Take After A Bicycle Accident
Injured in a Bicycle Accident? Here’s What to Do Next
Getting hurt in a bicycle accident can be overwhelming. Between medical bills, insurance claims, and the stress of recovery, it’s easy to feel uncertain about where to start. The good news is that you don’t have to face it alone. Knowing what steps to take after a cycling crash can make a real difference in your physical, emotional, and financial recovery.
At Northern California Bicycle Law, our San Francisco bicycle accident lawyers have helped injured cyclists for decades. We understand the challenges riders face, from inattentive car drivers to confusing insurance procedures—and we’re here to guide you through every step of the process.
1. Get to Safety and Seek Medical Attention
Your priority after a bicycle crash should be your safety. Move to a secure area away from traffic if possible and call 911 immediately. Even if your injuries seem minor, get evaluated by a medical professional. Some injuries, such as concussions or internal trauma, may not appear right away.
Medical documentation is critical for linking your injuries to the crash. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention more than 130,000 bicyclists are injured in crashes each year—many with serious head injuries requiring medical care. Our attorneys represent clients suffering from traumatic brain injuries (TBI), spinal trauma, and crashes caused by “dooring”.
2. Report the Accident to Law Enforcement
Ensure that a police report is filed. The responding officer will document vital details—driver information, witness statements, and the accident scene. Request a copy of the report for your records, as it will help your lawyer establish liability.
If officers don’t respond to the scene, file a report with the San Francisco Municipal Transportation Agency (SFMTA) or your local police department. Keep all photos, witness contacts, and notes from the scene.
If the crash involved a poorly designed bike lane, unsafe roadway, or Muni bus, you must file a claim against the responsible city or county within six months—a much shorter deadline than California’s ordinary two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims.
3. Gather and Preserve Evidence
Compelling evidence strengthens your case. Take photos of your injuries, damaged bicycle, and crash location. Note weather, road conditions, traffic signals, and anything that contributed to the collision.
Don’t repair or discard damaged equipment or clothing until your lawyer reviews them. These items can demonstrate impact severity and fault. We can also help with property damage and bike replacement claims while pursuing your injury case.
4. At The Scene Exchange Information—But Be Careful What You Say
Exchange names, contact details, and insurance information with everyone involved, but avoid discussing fault or apologizing. Even simple statements of concern can be misinterpreted and used against you later. Let your attorney manage communications with insurance companies to protect your rights. Adjusters often minimize injuries, hear only what they want to hear and offer low settlements that don’t cover full losses.
5. Contact Our Bicycle Lawyers as Soon as Possible
Once your immediate medical needs are addressed, contact an experienced San Francisco bicycle accident lawyer. A lawyer familiar with California traffic laws and local conditions can guide your claim from start to finish.
At Northern California Bicycle Law, we have represented injured cyclists throughout the nine Bay Area counties for over 60 years. Our team identifies all potential sources of compensation—from negligent drivers and delivery companies to municipalities responsible for unsafe conditions.
6. Keep Track of Medical Treatment and Expenses
Maintain detailed records of your care and costs. Save receipts, hospital bills, and all related correspondence. Keep a journal documenting pain levels and how your injuries affect daily life. This information helps establish future costs for treating long-term injuries.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), medical expenses from bicycle accidents can easily exceed tens of thousands of dollars, especially when surgery, physical therapy, or extended rehabilitation are needed. Your lawyer can ensure that all damages are properly included in your claim.
7. Avoid Social Media Disclosures and Don’t Settle Too Soon
Avoid posting about your accident or recovery online. Insurance companies monitor social media for posts that could weaken your case. Optimism can be turned on you by selective editing of your posts. Value your personal privacy. Keep details private until your claim is resolved.
Do not accept a settlement offer without consulting your lawyer. Once you sign a release agreement in return for money, you have waived your right to future compensation even if additional injuries appear later. Always review settlement offers with an attorney before making decisions.
Our firm has a proven record of securing recoveries for victims in complex cases, including:
- Dooring Accidents (CVC 22517)
- Defective Roadway Claims (potholes, railway tracks)
- E-Bike and Scooter Liability
- Product liability for bicycle and helmet failures
8. Focus on Healing and Let Your Lawyer Deal with the Rest
Recovery takes time, and stress can slow your healing process. Once you have an attorney, they will assume responsibility for taking over communication with insurers, securing expert testimony, and negotiating on your behalf.
Our legal team at Northern California Bicycle Law works on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay anything unless we win your case. We are proud to protect injured cyclists and help them secure the compensation they deserve.
When to Call Northern California Bicycle Law
If you or someone you love has been injured in a bicycle accident in Northern California, reach out for a free consultation. We will review your case, explain your rights, and outline the compensation available to you.
With decades of experience in complex bicycle injury claims, our team is here to protect your interests and hold negligent parties accountable. Call (415) 981-7210 or complete our online contact form to start your recovery today. Leave the complex case navigation to us, while you focus on your healing.