Bicycle accidents can happen in a flash. One moment you’re riding safely, and the next, you’re on the ground trying to make sense of it all. In these stressful moments, knowing what evidence to collect can make a big difference later. It can help prove what really happened and support any insurance or legal claims you need to make.
In Van Nuys, bicycle accidents are a growing concern. The city has seen an increase in cyclist injuries in recent years. In 2023 alone, Los Angeles County reported over 1,500 bicycle-related crashes, with Van Nuys being one of the areas with the highest numbers.
Many of these cases involved distracted drivers or poorly marked bike lanes. After an accident, collecting solid proof is important, especially if you plan to speak with a bicycle accident lawyer in Van Nuys. This can help protect your rights and make sure you get proper help.
Make Sure You’re Safe First
Your safety comes before anything else. If you’re hurt, try not to move unless you must. Move yourself and your bicycle to the side of the road to stay clear of traffic. Call 911 right away to report the accident and ask for medical help. Even small injuries should be checked by a professional.
Call the Police and Get a Report
Always call the police after a bicycle accident. Ask the officer to make an official report. This report will include details about the crash, such as who was involved, what happened, and the location. The police report is one of the most trusted documents in legal and insurance claims. Ask how you can get a copy of it later.
Take Photos and Videos of the Scene
Use your phone to take pictures and videos before anything is moved. Get photos of your bicycle, the other vehicle, the road, and anything else that might be important. Include:
- Broken parts of your bicycle
- Any cars involved, especially the license plate
- Skid marks or broken glass
- Street signs, signals, and road conditions
- Weather, lighting, and traffic flow at the time
Photos give a clear picture of what happened and help back up your story.
Get Contact Information
Talk to people at the scene. Ask for the names, phone numbers, and addresses of:
- The driver of the car
- Any people who saw the accident
- The police officer
Make sure to ask witnesses what they saw and note it down if you can.
Exchange Insurance and License Info
Ask the driver for their insurance details. You should write down:
- The name of their insurance company
- Their policy number
- Their driver’s license number
- Their car’s license plate number
This info is needed for insurance claims and can help if the case goes to court.
Write Down What You Remember
As soon as you can, write down everything you remember. This includes:
- The time and date of the accident
- What you saw and heard
- In what direction were you riding
- What the driver or others said at the scene
Memories can fade quickly, so writing things down early helps you stay accurate.
Keep Your Bicycle and Clothes
Don’t throw away or fix anything yet. Your damaged bicycle, helmet, clothes, and gear are all proof of how serious the accident was. Take photos of them and store them safely. Even things like torn shoes or scratched bags can help show how hard you were hit.
Visit a Doctor and Keep Medical Records
Even if you feel okay, see a doctor right away. Some injuries don’t show up until hours or days later. Keep records of every doctor visit, test, bill, and prescription. If you have visible injuries like bruises, cuts, or swelling, take pictures of them each day. These records can be used to show how the accident affected your health.
Talk to a Lawyer
A bicycle accident lawyer can help put all the pieces together. They know what to look for and how to use your evidence to build a strong case. If you’re hurt or unsure about your next steps, a lawyer can explain your rights and help you avoid mistakes.
The Wrap-Up!
After a bicycle accident, the evidence you collect can speak for you when words or memories fall short. Take the time to gather the right proof. It can protect you, support your case, and help you get the care and fairness you deserve.
