How To Collect Austin Bike Accident Evidence

There’s an Austin bike accident myth that if a vehicle strikes your car, you’ll automatically recover damages. However, in reality, to actually collect compensation you need to prove that the other party was responsible for the accident. That’s why gathering evidence is so important. Let’s go over the evidence you need to get while you’re at the scene.

Get Information from the Driver

You’ll need to file a claim against the other driver to collect damages. Start by gathering information about the driver and the vehicle.

Ask to see his or her driver’s license and write down their:

• Name
• Address
• Date of birth

Then, write down the name of the driver’s insurance company and the policy number. Finally, write down the license plate number and vehicle identification number.

Sometimes, drivers don’t stay at the scene of the accident. If the driver flees, attempt to write down the license plate number. Even a partial plate number can help you locate the driver so you can file a claim.

Get Witnesses’ Contact Information

Witnesses are usually present at accident scenes and important because they can help you prove your case when pursuing compensation. Make sure to get their contact information so an Austin bike accident attorney such as Steven C. Lee & Associates can reach out and collect their statements.

Take Photos and Videos

Photos and videos are two of the most critical pieces of evidence you can get from the scene.  Steven C. Lee can use photos and videos to reconstruct the accident, which can help you prove liability (eg, fault and cause).

Make sure you take photos and videos from all angles. You also want to snap photographs or take videos of your bicycle, outfit, shoes, helmet, and any injuries.  

Write Down the Facts of the Case

You should also write down the facts of the case while they are fresh in your mind. Include as much information as possible, such as the:

• Weather conditions
• Amount of traffic
• Driver statements and admissions

Keep the document in a safe place so you can hand it over to your attorney.

Get a Copy of the Police Report

Be sure to call the police.  If you do so, a police officer will come to the scene and make a report. Tell the officer what happened, but do not admit fault. Once the officer finishes the report, he or she might give you a copy. If not, ask the officer where you can obtain a copy for your records.

What If You are Seriously Injured?

Your health and safety are the priority. If you are seriously injured, call 911 and go to the hospital. While waiting for the ambulance, ask a witness to gather the information for you. Provide your contact number so the witness can reach out. If you don’t see a witness, Steven C. Lee & Associates can go to the scene and gather the evidence for you.

Get Help from Austin Bike Accident Attorney Steven C. Lee & Associates

Gathering evidence is just one of the steps you need to take after a bicycle accident. You also need to investigate the accident and file a claim. Unless you have experience investigating claims and negotiating with insurance companies, this will be quite challenging. Instead of trying to do it yourself, contact Austin bike accident lawyer Steven C. Lee for help.