What to Do If You’re Injured in a Hit-and-Run Bicycle Accident

Being involved in any type of vehicle accident can be a traumatic experience, but when you’re riding a bicycle and are struck by a driver who then flees the scene, the situation becomes even more complicated. A hit-and-run bicycle accident leaves you with not only physical injuries but also a sense of frustration and confusion about how to proceed. If you find yourself in this situation, it’s important to take immediate action to protect your health and your legal rights. 

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

The first and most important step is to make sure you’re safe and seek medical help. Even if you don’t feel severe pain right away, it’s essential to get checked out by a medical professional. Injuries from bicycle accidents—such as concussions, broken bones, or internal injuries—may not always be immediately apparent. Having a medical record of your injuries is also crucial for any future legal claims or insurance settlements.

If possible, avoid leaving the scene of the accident until help arrives. If you’re able to, move to a safe location, but don’t attempt to ride away or leave the area entirely. Remember, your health is the priority, and prompt medical attention can prevent complications down the road.

Report the Accident to the Police

Once you’ve secured medical help, the next step is to contact law enforcement. In Pennsylvania, you are required by law to report any accident involving injury or property damage. Reporting a hit-and-run is especially important because it helps create a record of the incident. The police will file an accident report, which may be valuable in helping to identify the driver who fled the scene. They will also assist in documenting the evidence and gathering witness statements.

If you’re unable to make the report yourself, have a friend or bystander do it on your behalf. The sooner the police are involved, the more likely they are to track down the responsible party.

Collect Any Available Evidence

While you’re waiting for law enforcement or medical professionals to arrive, try to gather as much information as you can about the incident. This could be difficult if you’re injured, but any details you can collect will be helpful. Try to remember or observe the following:

• The make, model, and color of the vehicle involved

• The license plate number, if you were able to see it

• Any distinctive features, like bumper stickers or damage

• The direction in which the vehicle fled

• The time and location of the accident

• Statements from any witnesses who saw the crash

Even though the driver left the scene, having as much information as possible could help authorities locate them. If you’re able to, take pictures of the scene, including any damage to your bike, the road conditions, and your injuries. This documentation can be vital if you need to file a claim later.

Notify Your Insurance Company

After reporting the accident to the police, it’s important to contact your insurance company to inform them about the hit-and-run. If you have uninsured motorist coverage (UM), your insurance may cover the costs of your medical bills, bike repair, and other damages, even if the driver is not caught. However, UM coverage can be complicated, so it’s important to fully understand your policy and what it covers.

In some cases, your health insurance may also help cover immediate medical expenses, but this doesn’t relieve you from the need to report the accident to your auto or bicycle insurance company. Be sure to document all communications with your insurer, as well as any medical expenses you incur.

Understand Pennsylvania’s Hit-and-Run Laws

In Pennsylvania, hit-and-run accidents are considered serious offenses, and the penalties for drivers who flee the scene are severe. Under Pennsylvania law, the driver involved in a crash that causes injury or death is required to stop, provide assistance, and exchange information with the victim. If the driver leaves the scene without doing so, they can face criminal charges, including fines, license suspension, and even jail time.

However, these legal consequences don’t always translate into immediate compensation for the victim. This is why it’s important to have a solid understanding of how your insurance works in cases like this and what legal options are available.

Pursue Legal Action with the Help of an Attorney

If you’re injured in a hit-and-run bicycle accident, one of the best things you can do is consult with a personal injury attorney who has experience handling these types of cases. A lawyer will help you understand your rights, guide you through the claims process, and ensure you pursue the appropriate avenues to secure compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.

If the police are unable to identify the driver, or if the driver is uninsured, your attorney may assist in negotiating with your insurance company or in filing a lawsuit. In some cases, if the driver is found, your attorney may help you pursue a personal injury claim against the at-fault party.

Take Care of Your Health and Well-Being

In addition to handling the legal and financial aspects of the accident, it’s crucial to take care of yourself as you recover from your injuries. This may include physical therapy, follow-up medical appointments, or mental health support if you’re experiencing anxiety or trauma from the incident. Don’t hesitate to seek support from family, friends, or professionals to help you through this difficult time.

Consider the Long-Term Impact

Being involved in a hit-and-run accident can have long-lasting effects, not only physically but emotionally and financially. Bicycle accidents can result in serious injuries, and the costs associated with recovery—both medical and lost income—can add up quickly. The process of seeking compensation and dealing with insurance companies may also be frustrating and time-consuming. Having the right legal support and understanding your options can make the process less overwhelming.

Conclusion

A hit-and-run bicycle accident can leave you feeling helpless, but by following the steps outlined above, you can better protect your health and rights. The most important things to remember are to get medical help immediately, report the incident to the authorities, gather evidence, and consult with a personal injury attorney. Navigating the aftermath of a hit-and-run is complicated, but with the right approach, you can hold the responsible party accountable and recover the compensation you deserve.