As the popularity of electric bicycles (e-bikes) continues to rise in Alberta, so does the risk of accidents involving these vehicles. If you or a loved one has been involved in an e-bike accident, it’s essential to understand the steps you must take to care for your health and well-being and protect your rights. Fortunately, James H. Brown and Associates are here to help! Below we will outline the steps to follow after an e-bike accident and some mistakes to avoid when pursuing an e-bike accident claim. Continue reading to learn more.
1) Seek Medical Attention
Your health and well-being should always be your first priority after an e-bike or bicycle accident. Even if you think your injuries are minor, it is crucial to seek medication attention immediately. Some injuries may not be apparent right away, but they can still have long-term implications. Moreover, medical documentation plays a critical role in establishing the link between the bicycle accident and your injuries when pursuing a claim.
2) Document the Accident Scene
Next, preserving evidence from the accident scene is critical for supporting your e-bike accident claim. If possible, take photos or videos of the accident scene, including any visible damage to your e-bike, the surrounding environment, and any relevant road signs or traffic signals. This documentation will help James H. Brown and Associates establish the conditions and factors present during the accident and will aid in determining liability.
3) Gather Witness Information
Eyewitness testimonies can significantly bolster your e-bike accident case. If there were any witnesses to your accident, try to gather their contact information. Their statements can provide valuable insights and support your version of events. Moreover, witness testimonies can serve as critical evidence in establishing liability and support for your claim.
4) Report the Accident
Then, contact the appropriate authorities to report your e-bike/ bicycle accident. This step is essential for creating an official record of the incident. It is a legal requirement in Alberta to report accidents involving injuries or property damage. So make sure to obtain a copy of the accident report, as it can serve as vital evidence for your claim.
5) Preserve Evidence
Preserving evidence related to your e-bike accident is crucial. Make sure to keep all documents and records concerning your accident, such as medical bills, invoices for bike repairs, and anything related to your accident or injuries. Also, maintain a record of any missed workdays or loss of income due to your e-bike accident. Preserving evidence not only strengthens your case but also helps in demonstrating the full extent of your damages.
6) Consult an E-Bike/ Bicycle Accident Lawyer
Finally, seek legal representation from an award-winning bicycle accident lawyer from James H. Brown and associates. An experienced lawyer from James H. Brown and Associates will have the expertise and knowledge to navigate you through the complexities of your e-bike accident claim. We will assist you in understanding your rights, assessing the value of your claim, negotiating with insurance companies on your behalf, and representing you in court (if necessary).
Mistakes to Avoid:
Two mistakes are critical to avoid when considering pursuing an e-bike accident claim. Below, we will cover what these mistakes are and why you should do your best to avoid them:
Delaying the Claim Process
One of the most common mistakes accident victims stumble into is delaying the initiation of the claim process. Delaying the crucial steps outlined previously can negatively impact your accident claim. It may even result in missed opportunities for gathering evidence and attaining witness testimonies. So don’t hesitate to reach out to James H. Brown and Associates as soon as possible.
Providing a Recorded Statement without Legal Counsel
After a bicycle or e-bike accident, insurance adjusters will request that you provide a recorded statement regarding the accident. It is crucial to avoid providing this statement without consulting a lawyer from James H. Brown and Associates first. Insurance companies often use your statement against you to minimize or deny your claim. Our team will guide you in navigating these requests and ensuring your rights are protected.
Get Legal Guidance from James H. Brown and Associates Today!
If you or a loved one has been involved in an e-bike or bicycle accident, following the appropriate steps and avoiding common mistakes is crucial for protecting your rights and attaining a successful claim. Equally important, consult an experienced e-bike accident lawyer, like those at James H. Brown and Associates; our expert team will direct you through the legal process, advocate for your rights and work tirelessly to ensure you receive fair compensation.
Contact James H. Brown and Associates today and schedule your free, no-obligation consultation with one of our expert personal injury lawyers.
