If you were injured while riding your bike in Asheville, you are not alone. Whether it occurred along the business corridors of Merrimon Avenue or while navigating the River Arts District, a bike collision can leave you contending with serious injuries and uncertainty about how you will pay for mounting medical bills and lost wages. Understanding what to do and when to hire a bicycle accident lawyer can prepare you for a favorable outcome to your injury claim.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention and Report the Accident
After a bike collision, your first priority should be your safety and health. Seek medical help, even if you do not think you are seriously injured. Certain injuries, like internal bleeding or concussions, may not show symptoms right away.
Call 911 or have someone take you to the nearest hospital, such as Mission Hospital. You should also report the incident to the police. An official report can help you document what happened and may be essential if you pursue legal action. As soon as you can, gather the police report tied to the collision. If one wasn’t made, you can ask that one be generated based on your testimony.
Gather Evidence and Identify Witnesses at the Scene
If you plan to pursue an injury claim so you can be compensated for the harm you suffered and your financial losses, preserving evidence from the crash scene is key. Take photos of your bike, visible injuries, road conditions, and any vehicles involved.
Collect the names and contact information of any witnesses who saw the collision. If the accident occurred near a trail or park, such as French Broad River Greenway or Carrier Park, note any surveillance cameras or traffic signals nearby. These details can support your claim and help show fault. Memory fades quickly after traumatic events. Writing down what happened as soon as you can ensures that you get the details right.
Avoid Speaking to Insurance Adjusters Without Legal Advice
Once the accident is reported, the at-fault party’s insurance may try to contact you. Avoid giving recorded statements or accepting settlement offers without first consulting with an attorney. Insurance adjusters often aim to minimize payouts and may use your words against you.
Hold off communicating with anyone tied to the at-fault party until you speak with an experienced personal injury attorney who can explain your rights and inform you of your options.
Acting without legal counsel could jeopardize your chance to recover full compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. As you consult with an attorney and prepare for your next steps, you can read up on the state’s strict contributory negligence law and other statutes that may affect your claim.
Understanding the Societal Toll of Bike Collisions in Asheville
Biking is a popular way to explore Asheville, with over 15 trails covering 85 miles throughout the region. From the Thermal Belt Rail Trail to the Catawba River Greenway, residents and visitors alike enjoy scenic rides through green spaces and riverside paths.
Even in a bike-friendly city, the risk of injury remains high. In 2024, 837 people were injured and 41 were killed while riding a bike on North Carolina roads. Between 2020 and 2024, bike crashes led to 157 deaths and 3,306 injuries statewide.
This ongoing toll underscores the vulnerability of cyclists, especially in urban areas where roadways are shared with high-speed traffic. Trails may offer some safety, but once riders leave those paths, they face serious risks.
FAQs
Q: What Should I Do Immediately After a Bicycle Accident in Asheville?
A: If you were hit while riding your bicycle, call 911 and report the crash. Request medical help, even if you feel okay. Gather the driver’s name, insurance details, and photos of the scene, along with other important details to back your claim. Avoid admitting fault with the driver or negotiating with their insurance carrier. Speak with a personal injury lawyer who can secure the evidence you need to file an injury claim that fully compensates you for the harm you suffered.
Q: Why Is Medical Treatment Important After a Bicycle Accident?
A: Getting medical treatment immediately after an injury has multiple benefits. One, it documents your injuries and links them directly to the accident. Two, the documentation creates a clear timeline of when you were injured and sought medical attention, which is critical for building your case. Even if your injuries seem minor, your symptoms could worsen later, especially if you suffered a head injury.
Q: What Compensation Can You Recover After a Bicycle Accident in North Carolina?
A: Following a bicycle accident in North Carolina, you may be able to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and any long-term physical limitations that interfere with your ability to work or perform normal activities. North Carolina’s contributory negligence law bars recovery if you are even slightly at fault, so it is critical to have a lawyer represent you through the injury claim process.
Q: What Insurance May Cover Your Injuries After a Bicycle Accident?
A: If you suffered an injury while riding your bike, the at-fault party’s auto liability insurance may compensate you for your injuries. If the driver is uninsured or fled the scene, your own uninsured motorist coverage might apply. In some cases, homeowner or umbrella policies could provide limited coverage. A lawyer can identify all available policies and pursue claims to make sure you are not left paying out of pocket.
Contact a Trusted Bike Accident Lawyer Today
If you were injured while riding your bike in Asheville, it is important to have someone on your side who understands what you are going through. As a local firm with over 30 years of experience representing clients in this community, we know the area, the roads, and the challenges injured cyclists face.
At Bridgman Gantt Law Offices, we are committed to helping individuals across North Carolina move forward after serious injuries. We take the time to investigate what happened, explain your options, and pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to learn how we can assist you with your bicycle accident case.
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