If you have been injured while riding a bike in the Denver Metro Area, you need to understand that the complex process of securing compensation should not be handled alone. The most important step you can take after seeking medical attention is to contact an experienced Denver Bicycle Accident Attorney. This immediate action protects your legal rights and allows you to focus solely on your recovery.
Three Crucial Steps After a Denver Bike Crash
The evidence collected right after a crash is vital. Follow these steps to safeguard your future claim:
1. Obtain Immediate Medical Care
Your health is paramount. Do not delay seeing a doctor, even for injuries that appear minor. A medical evaluation creates an official record that legally links your injuries directly to the accident.
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Legal Importance: Insurance companies often challenge claims based on gaps in treatment. A Denver Bicycle Accident Attorney will use these prompt records to prove the severity and causation of your damages.
2. Document the Scene Thoroughly
If physically possible, gather information before conditions change:
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Photos and Video: Capture all damage to your bike, the vehicle, and your injuries. Photograph the scene, including skid marks, road hazards, and traffic signs.
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Witness Information: Get names and contact details for everyone who saw the crash. Witness testimony is a powerful tool for your lawyer.
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Police Report: Ensure an official report is filed and get the report number.
3. Reject Contact from Insurance Adjusters
Never give a recorded statement or accept a settlement offer from the at-fault party’s insurer without consulting a lawyer. Their goal is to get you to admit fault or settle for the lowest possible amount.
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Expertise: Direct all communication to your Denver Bicycle Accident Attorney. They are skilled negotiators who will manage these communications to ensure you are not taken advantage of.
The Colorado Advantage: Why Local Expertise Matters
Bicycle accident cases in Colorado involve specific laws that only an experienced local lawyer fully understands:
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Modified Comparative Negligence: Colorado law dictates that if you are found to be 50% or more at fault, you lose your right to compensation. A skilled bike crash lawyer will aggressively challenge any attempts to shift blame to you, ensuring you are eligible for maximum recovery.
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Bike Right-of-Way: Your attorney knows local statutes regarding cyclist rights, including safe passing laws and the critical issue of “dooring” (when a driver opens a car door into a cyclist’s path), which are often central to proving negligence.
