Ontario roads, especially in Toronto, can be extremely dangerous for cyclists and unfortunately, accidents are common. If you’ve been injured in a bicycle accident, you are typically entitled to accident benefits, but there are steps you should take right away to insure that you get the compensation you deserve.

Below, you’ll learn exactly what you need to do after a bicycle accident to take care of yourself.

Step 1: Call 911

If anyone involved in the accident is seriously hurt, call 911 right away. Even if you’re unsure whether someone has been injured, it’s best to call 911.

Step 2: Take Information

Get the basic information of the driver who hit you. This includes their name, the name of their insurance company, and their license plate number. If possible, take a photo of their driver’s license, license plate and registration. Have someone else gather this information for you if you’re unable to do it yourself.

Step 3: Report the Accident to the Police

All accidents that result in over $2,000 in damage must be reported to the police. This is a key step, especially if you plan to file a lawsuit, as the police will investigate, determine how the accident happened, and file a report that can be used as evidence. If your accident isn’t as serious, visit a collision reporting center. Ideally, do this with everyone involved in the accident so you can all file reports.

Step 4: Seek Medical Attention

Visit a hospital or other medical provider right away after your accident, even if you aren’t sure about the severity of your injuries. Make sure to be honest about your injuries when you discuss them with your doctor, as they will take notes that you can use to support a lawsuit.

Avoid exaggerating as well as underestimating the extent of your injuries as your doctor can’t properly treat you without accurate information. In addition, if you don’t fully report your injuries, insurance companies can use a lack of notation to argue that your injuries aren’t serious, so make sure to discuss all injuries with a doctor.

Step 5: Contact Your Insurance Company

Regardless of whether the accident was your fault or another person’s, you should be entitled to accident benefits for medical care, rehabilitation, and income replacement. If you have car insurance, contact your own insurance company. If you do not, contact the insurance company of the automobile driver. If the driver does not have insurance, you can apply to the Motor Vehicle Accident Claims Fund.

Something many people don’t know is that if you have home insurance, it often covers bicycle damage. It’s a good idea to contact a lawyer at this point because, if your insurance company pays less than you feel you’re entitled to, you’ll already have a lawyer in place to fight for your rights.

Step 6: Contact a Personal Injury Lawyer

If you’ve sustained serious injuries as a result of the automobile driver’s fault, you may be eligible for several types of compensation. These include medical expenses, loss of income, pain and suffering, housekeeping, and more.

Because of government restrictions, not everyone injured in a car accident in Ontario is entitled to compensation. If your injuries are not serious or permanent, it can be difficult to get compensation for pain and suffering and other expenses.

This is why it’s important to contact a lawyer. They will help you gather evidence, support you in navigating the complicated lawsuit process, and offer you legal advice to help you get as much compensation as possible.

Even if you’re unsure whether you have a case, visiting a lawyer is usually worth it. Consultations are typically free, and a lawyer can help you determine whether it’s a good idea to file a lawsuit.

If you or a loved one has been injured in a bicycle accident, book a free consultation with a bicycle accident lawyer.