What Should I Take Pictures of if I am Injured in a Bicycle Accident?
If possible, try to take pictures of the accident scene including street signs and lights, important landmarks, vehicles/bicycles involved and the damage done to them, and your physical injuries.
Photographs can be useful tools in preparing to bring a bicycle accident claim. Following an accident, evidence is often lost as people leave the scene, repair their bikes and vehicles, and injuries heal. A place that was the scene of an accident might change for various reasons, including street construction projects or seasonal conditions. Having photos that were taken same-day will ensure an accurate depiction of conditions at the time of the event.
What can I use to Support my Case After an Illinois Bicycle Accident?
If you are hurt in a bike accident and are physically well enough to do so, have someone take photos of the accident scene including street signs, traffic signals, landmarks, damage to your bike and any vehicles involved, preferably from different angles. You should have pictures taken of your injuries, both immediately following the accident and throughout your treatment and healing process. Pictures should be taken in the hospital, including photos of medical equipment involved. These photos show the extent of your injuries and are more convincing than the words of a doctor.
Many Chicago area cyclists use video cameras on their helmets or handlebars. These small video recorders capture crucial images leading up to the collision and the moments following. Understandably, these videos can have an impact on insurance adjusters and juries when they see how a bicycle accident happened in “real time.”
What's the Point of Capturing all This Information?
Collecting evidence helps build your case for monetary damages. In a negligence cause of action, you will argue that the person who injured you on your bike was negligent and their negligence was the direct cause your injuries and damages. You (the plaintiff) or your attorney will need to plead and prove the following elements:
- You (the bicyclist) were injured
- The defendant breached their duty to not hit and injure you
- The defendant's breach was the cause of your injures
- You suffered tangible and intangible damages as a result
Rosenfeld Injury Lawyers LLC comes in immediately after bike accidents and helps injured victims and their families do everything necessary to preserve their rights. We can represent you on contingency, which means that you don't pay us if we don't win a financial recovery for you. Call our offices today so we can help you get started in receiving your rightful compensation.