Cyclists in Colorado: What to Do if You Are Hit by a Car

Cyclists getting injured by cars is not an uncommon occurrence. In fact, Boulder Vision Zero reports that 255 cyclists were injured by cars in Boulder alone from 2009 to 2019.

Whether riding a bike or behind the wheel, it’s crucial to be aware of your surroundings and stay safe on the road. However, it’s always prudent to prepare for the worst-case scenario. That’s why we’ve compiled a comprehensive guide on what to do if you are hit by a car while cycling in Colorado.

First Steps after a Bike Accident in Denver, Colorado

Getting hit by a car while riding your bike is a scary and shocking experience. That’s why it’s vital to understand the necessary actions to take post-accident before heading out on the road.

Here’s what to do:

Call the police and file a report.
Make notes of the accident and take photos/videos of the scene, the car, your bicycle, and your injuries.
Collect information from the driver, including:

Their name, contact information, and insurance information.
License plate number and other identifying details about the vehicle.

Seek medical attention: This step is key even if your injuries don’t seem severe. You could be in a state of shock, in which case the pain would be less noticeable. If you delay treatment, this could raise a red flag and cause law enforcement to wonder if the accident caused your injuries.
Keep your damaged equipment: This evidence is essential – especially if the driver of the vehicle disputes your claim.
Call a lawyer: An experienced Colorado bike accident attorney will help you navigate the ins and outs of the legal system and ensure you receive the financial compensation you are entitled to.

What if I am involved in a hit and run?

Hit and runs describe an incident where a driver hits a person, object, or another vehicle and flees the scene without providing information to the victim. If you are a cyclist involved in a hit and run, be sure to do the following:

Get all the information you can from witnesses.
Make notes of all you can remember about the vehicle that hit you.
Still seek medical attention right away. In all likelihood, your health insurance will cover the expenses.

You’ll also want to contact a Denver hit-and-run attorney immediately. Colorado law requires insurance companies to provide uninsured motorist coverage for bodily and property damage when a hit and run occurs. This means that your own insurance company should cover these types of collisions without increasing your rates. A lawyer can help you gather the evidence you need to prove your claim and receive the compensation you are owed under Colorado law.

Financial Compensation

If the driver of the vehicle is found to be at fault for your cycling accident, you can expect compensation for any of the following economic damages:

Damage to your bicycle
Damage to your equipment or gear
Medical bills
Rehabilitation
Loss of wages
Loss of future earnings

Of course, the specifics of financial losses and compensation vary on a case-by-case basis. You can typically prove economic damages through documentary evidence; however, you’ll want to hire an experienced lawyer to help you identify the amount of damages you’ve truly suffered.

Bicycle Accidents in Colorado

A car and bicycle crash can happen for many reasons, including but not limited to poor visibility, driver impairment, driver distraction, ignoring traffic laws, following a bicycle too closely, a defective bicycle, or a bicyclist’s failure to signal.

If you have experienced a bicycle accident involving a car and need help, don’t hesitate to contact a Denver bike accident attorney. If you require an accident lawyer in Colorado, Boyle Law Firm is the place to go. Our skilled attorneys can ensure you get the compensation you deserve so you can get back on your bike in no time.