Portland is nationally recognized as a bike-friendly city. People use bikes to commute to work, while families enjoy the city’s many biking trails on the weekend. However, as many of Portland’s roads are shared by cyclists and motorists, accidents do occur. If you’ve been injured in a biking accident in the Portland or Vancouver area, here are some basic steps you should take to ensure that you understand your options for collecting the compensation you deserve.
Seek Medical Attention as Soon as Possible
Biking accidents can result in serious injuries. If you need immediate medical attention, call for an ambulance right away. Even if you don’t believe your injuries require a hospital visit, you should still make an appointment with a doctor within the next few days to have your injuries assessed. Some conditions, such as traumatic brain injuries, may not be immediately apparent, so it’s a good idea to have a medical professional determine the nature and severity of your injuries. Additionally, these medical records will likely prove useful when pursuing a claim later on.
Report the Incident to the Necessary Authorities
According to the Oregon DMV, an Oregon Traffic Accident and Insurance Report must be filed within 72 hours of the accident when injuries are involved. If you are injured in the incident, you should also notify the police so that an officer can create an official police report that documents the details of the accident. Make sure to tell the officer your account of what happened, especially if you witnessed the other party violating any laws that contributed to the accident. You can request a copy of the accident report when you decide to pursue a claim to recover compensation.
Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney
Coping with the costly medical bills, lost wages, and other unanticipated expenses can be overwhelming, and the thought of battling with insurance companies to recover compensation may sound like the last thing you want to do during your recovery. That’s why it’s a good idea to work with a knowledgeable personal injury lawyer who can listen to the specifics of your situation and help you determine the most strategic path forward. Your attorney will handle these negotiations and work hard to recover the compensation you need to get your life back on track.
If you’ve been injured in a cycling accident in the Portland or Vancouver area, contact the dedicated and compassionate personal injury attorneys at Henderson Taylor Law Firm today by calling (360) 737-1478.