What you need to know

Whether you’re hit by a car while walking or on your motorcycle, bike, or scooter, always make sure  you call the police, get witness information and if possible, photographic evidence of the scene.

Your first reaction might be to forgive a motorist for hitting you, especially when it’s clear they’re really sorry. Remember: in nine out of ten bicycle accident claims, the driver won’t have to reimburse the injured cyclist themselves. Instead, personal injury compensation comes from their insurance company.

Whenever possible, you should provide a lawyer with any documents that might be relevant to your case. These include:

Police reports

Copies of medical reports and bills from doctors and hospitals

Information about the insurer of the person who caused your injury

Any photographs you have of the accident scene, your property damage, and your injuries

Receipts for any personal items (such as bicycle gear) you had to replace due to the accident