As a cyclist, you are well aware of the dangers that you might face when you are out on the roads. You understand you must do everything that you possibly can to stand out and make yourself visible. You also understand the importance of obeying traffic laws and riding predictably.
However, even the safest cyclists can be in a crash. If you are hit by a driver who didn’t use a turn signal while you were cycling, you could suffer serious damages and severe injuries. You can pursue a personal injury claim to recover compensation to cover your losses.
Improper Lane Change
All drivers and operators of any vehicles, including bicycles, motorcycles, trucks, and cars, must properly signal when merging or changing lanes. If a vehicle changes lanes without warning, which means without using a turn signal, then an improper lane change has taken place.
Failure to signal is a violation of traffic laws and is an example of negligence. If you can show a driver was negligent, then you can have a successful personal injury claim and get compensated for your economic and non-economic losses suffered in the crash.
However, proving that the driver didn’t signal could be a challenge unless there are witnesses. Often, a driver will not admit he or she failed to properly signal before a crash.
You should stay on the accident scene and call the police. An accident report should be completed. That report is beneficial for the insurance claim and to prove what happened as a result of the crash.
If you are physically able to do so, you should take photos of the accident scene and of the damages suffered. Ask any witnesses to provide statements with their names and contact details.
After the Accident
It is imperative to establish medical care right after the accident. While injuries might not seem serious, failure to establish care will destroy your personal injury claim. Many injuries aren’t apparent until days after the crash or they might not peak until even weeks later. Therefore, it is important to be checked by a healthcare provider the day of the accident.
If injuries are visible, get photos of them for your records. You will need to maintain thorough documentation to support your claim. Here are some documents that can help your personal injury claim after you were hit by a driver who didn’t use a turn signal:
- Medical records
- Medical bills
- Proof of lost wages
- Repair estimates
- Prescription receipts
- Receipts for medical devices
Consult With a Personal Injury Lawyer
If you were cycling and you were hit by a driver who didn’t use a turn signal, you should consult with a personal injury attorney who is licensed to practice in your state. With the help of an accident injury lawyer, you are much more likely to recover compensation for your damages. Complete the Free Case Evaluation Form on this page today to have your accident details reviewed by a lawyer in your area.
