Accidents Can Happen!
What to do if you are involved in an accident on your bicycle.
Wheel Life column - 31 July, 1999
by Todd Litman and Suzanne Kort - Victoria Transport Policy Institute

Cycling is actually a safe sport if you take basic precautions, such as following traffic rules and wearing a helmet. Dr. Meyer Hillman, an expert on the benefits of cycling, estimates that the fatality risk from cycling is offset twenty times over by the increased longevity from aerobic health benefits.

Most cyclists ride for years or even their entire life without having a serious crash, but even the most cautious cyclist can have an accident due to causes beyond their control. If that ever happens to you, it is important to maintain control over what happens next.

We've heard of accidents caused by apparently "nice" drivers who show great concern at the crash scene and politely provide their name and phone number as required. Then, when the victim later calls to work out a settlement, the information turns out to be fake!

If a collision could have caused an injury, property damage worth $100 or more, if it may have involved alcohol or drugs, or if there is any lack of cooperation from the vehicle driver, keep witnesses there and call the police to the scene.

Collect the following information. If you are too injured or upset, ask a trustworthy-looking bystander to do this. If in doubt, call the cops.

• Date, time, location and weather conditions.
• Name, address and license number of driver. Copy this information from the driver's license onto a sheet of paper that you keep. Don't accept a business card without verifying that the name is the same as on the driver's license.
• Vehicle make, model, colour and license plate number.
• Name and phone numbers of witnesses.
• Description of accident, including drawings as needed.
• Photographs of damages, medical statements, receipts and records of lost work time.

As quickly as possible (preferably the same day) have a medical checkup, file a police report, and file an ICBC claim if it involved a motor vehicle. Have your bike and helmet checked at a bike shop, and obtain estimates of repair or replacement costs. Save all documents.

All expenses caused by a motor vehicle crash should be covered by ICBC, including damages resulting from a hit-and-run collision. Contact a personal injury lawyer if you are not satisfied with the settlement ICBC proposes. You may want to contact a lawyer before talking with ICBC about a settlement. Lawyers don't charge for an initial consultation, so there is no risk. Do not accept a settlement until your doctor has given you a clean bill of health, and always seek legal assistance if you may have permanent injuries.

Damages from crashes caused by dogs, other cyclists, pedestrians, or roadway hazards may involve a court settlement (or at least the threat of one). Always consult a lawyer in such cases.