The growing use of electric bikes, or e-bikes, has led to more drivers sharing the road with these vehicles. Laws are less well known, and oversights are very common. Many simply do not know who has the right of way. If you are in an accident, it is essential that you know what to do. Here are some steps to take after a Davie e-bike accident.
Always Protect Yourself and Your Well-being
Your first step after an e-bike accident is to call 911 to request immediate medical care and police at the scene. If you can check on the other person, do so. If you are in immediate danger, move out of the way of further harm. These steps will preserve your health and well-being.
Document the Scene of the Accident
If everyone is safe or getting care, use this time to capture as much information as possible about what occurred. Your phone can be one of the best tools you have in these accidents. Take photos or videos of:
- The entire accident scene, including demonstrating the location of both vehicles and people after the incident
- The weather conditions
- Traffic lights and crosswalks, which may provide insight into what occurred
- The damage to your vehicle and theirs
- Your injuries
- Any debris in the roadway
This information becomes vital later. The police may benefit from using it, and your attorney will as well. It can be helpful in recreating what occurred and caused the accident.
Speak to Witnesses
Gather information from anyone who stops to help. You just need their name and contact information, but if they are willing to share any information they have about what occurred, record those details. Be very careful not to incriminate yourself during those conversations.
Get Medical Care Immediately
E-Bike accidents can cause serious injury and risk to life. It is not uncommon for individuals to suffer traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and broken bones. In some cases, you may not know an injury exists right away. Internal bleeding, whiplash, and some forms of head trauma have no outward signs initially.
When you go to the hospital, describe exactly what happened. Request a full workup. Then, follow up with all of the medical care recommended for you. That means getting treatment and continuing to go to any follow-up appointments. Document those instances.
Seek the Help of an E-Bike Attorney
Now is the best time to act and speak to an e-bike accident lawyer in Davie. When you contact a lawyer in advance, they can provide you with hands-on support immediately, including informing insurance companies of what occurred and handling police reports. They will work immediately to preserve evidence and help you get the care you need.
Your attorney will also work to prove who is at fault. This depends on the type of e-bike, the situations involved, and the actions of those involved. Let your attorney build your case and claim so insurance companies do not take further advantage of your rights. Your attorney fully understands Florida e-bike laws that may impact your case.
Seek Legal Guidance Right Away
Do not hesitate to contact a Davie e-bike accident lawyer if you have injuries. The laws can be confusing. Your attorney can provide critical information to protect your future.