Post Crash Resource Guide
Bike Easy has created this guide to prepare you with information for if the unimaginable
happens. As bicycling rates have increased since 2020 in New Orleans, fatalities that
involve motorized vehicles are also on the rise. If you or someone you know has experienced a crash, you may feel a mix of emotions and not know what to do. We hope that this resource will provide some guidance so that you know you are not alone.
10 Things to Do After a Bike Crash
- Dial 911: call the police or an ambulance immediately. If you are unable to do so, ask someone to help.
- Always wait for the police to arrive and file an official report. Make sure the officer on scene does this. A police report provides documentation detailing the incident, including the identity of witnesses.
- Get the business card, badge number, and/or name of the officer.
- Leave your bike in the same state it was after the crash, if possible. It is best if the police see the crash scene undisturbed.
- Obtain the contact information of any witnesses.
- Immediately seek medical attention, either at the scene, the emergency room, hospital or doctor’s office. When in doubt go to the ER! Give all complaints to the doctor. Medical records are proof that you were injured and document the extent of your injuries.
- Take photos of injuries and keep a diary of how you feel after the crash.
- Never negotiate with the driver of the vehicle, regardless of who may be at fault. Get photos of the car, license plate, driver’s license and insurance card, along with the names of any passengers.
- Give no written or recorded statements to anyone until you talk to an attorney. This includes insurance companies. Refrain from making statements to anyone including on social media beyond “I was in a crash, but I am alive”.
- Even if it looks to be in good condition, have a local bike shop assess your bike to make sure it is safe to ride. Bikes are not meant to be hit by cars.
