In just a few seconds, a peaceful ride through Bloomington’s neighborhoods or bike paths can turn into a medical emergency and a legal nightmare. If you’re thinking, “I got hit by a car on my bike what now? you’re not alone.
At Onward Injury Law, we’ve helped many cyclists in Bloomington, IL who are dealing with injuries, insurance claims, and overwhelming medical bills. Here’s a step-by-step guide on what to do if you’ve been hit while biking and how to protect your rights.
Step 1: Prioritize Your Safety and Get Medical Help
The first few moments after a crash are crucial. If you’re injured, try to stay still and wait for emergency responders. Internal injuries or concussions may not show immediate symptoms.
If you can move safely, get out of the roadway to avoid further harm. Your health should always be the top priority after saying, “I got hit by a car on my bike.”
Step 2: Call 911 and File a Police Report
Always call the police, even if the crash seems minor. The responding officers will file an official report documenting the details of the incident. This report will be critical for insurance claims and any legal action that may follow.
Make sure to provide your side of the story and confirm the report includes your account of the event. If you’re too injured to talk on scene, follow up with the police department as soon as you’re able.
Step 3: Exchange Information
Request the other driver’s full name, phone number, driver’s license information, and insurance provider details. If any witnesses are present, gather their names and contact information too—their accounts may prove crucial if there’s a disagreement over who was at fault
When telling others, including law enforcement, what happened, just stick to the facts. Avoid admitting fault, even if you’re feeling shaken or confused. It’s okay to say, “I got hit by a car on my bike, and I’m not sure what happened yet.”
Step 4: Document Everything
If you’re able, take photos of:
- The crash scene
- Your bike and any visible damage
- The car and license plate
- Any injuries you’ve sustained
- Traffic signs or signals near the site
Also, keep a record of your medical visits, treatment plans, and expenses. These documents help support your injury claim and prove the extent of damages you’ve suffered since the incident.
Step 5: Notify Your Insurance Company
You may be asking yourself, “If I got hit by a car on my bike, does my auto insurance offer any coverage? In some cases, yes.
If the driver was at fault, their auto insurance should cover your injuries and bike damage. But if the driver is uninsured, underinsured, or flees the scene, you may be able to use your own uninsured motorist coverage or personal injury protection if you have it.
It’s important to notify your insurer promptly, but don’t feel pressured to accept a quick settlement. Always speak with a legal professional before agreeing to any terms.
Step 6: Get Medical Follow-Up and Track Your Recovery
Many bike accident injuries, such as road rash, fractures, or concussions, require ongoing care. Follow through with all medical appointments and treatments, and keep a personal journal of your symptoms, pain levels, and how the injuries impact your daily life.
If you’re thinking, “I got hit by a car on my bike and I’m struggling to recover,” documenting these struggles is key in securing fair compensation.
Step 7: Understand Your Rights Under Illinois Law
Illinois law allows injured bicyclists to pursue compensation for damages if the driver was negligent. These damages can include:
- Medical expenses (past and future)
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Emotional distress
If the accident occurred due to unsafe driving, distracted behavior, or failure to yield, the driver can be held financially accountable. Even if you share some responsibility for the accident, Illinois applies a modified comparative fault rule, which allows you to seek compensation as long as you’re found to be less than 51% at fault.
Step 8: Speak with a Personal Injury Attorney
After the initial shock of “I got hit by a car on my bike” wears off, the legal and insurance process can become overwhelming.
Investigate the crash and gather evidence
- Communicate with insurance companies
- Calculate your damages accurately
- File a personal injury claim
- Represent you in negotiations or court
At Onward Injury Law, we’re here to help you seek fair compensation and protect your future after a serious accident. We’ve handled countless bicycle-related injury cases in Bloomington and understand the unique challenges cyclists face in the legal system.
Common Causes of Bike-Vehicle Collisions in Bloomington
Knowing the common causes of bicycle accidents can be key to avoiding them in the future.
Common causes include:
- Drivers failing to yield at intersections
- Opening car doors into bike lanes
- Distracted or impaired driving
- Unsafe passing or following too closely
- Poor road maintenance or visibility issues
Although practicing defensive cycling is essential, it’s typically the driver’s duty to remain attentive and safely share the road with cyclists.
Final Thoughts: Don’t Handle It Alone
If you’re thinking, “I got hit by a car on my bike—now what?”, know that you’re not alone. The aftermath of a bike accident can be physically, emotionally, and financially draining. But with the right legal guidance and support, you can protect your rights and begin your path to recovery.
Onward Injury Law is committed to helping injured cyclists in Bloomington get the justice and compensation they deserve. If you’ve been injured in a bicycle crash, contact us today for a free consultation. We’ll stand by your side every step of the way.
