Why This Matters
Imagine you’re cycling down State Street in Salt Lake City, enjoying the crisp mountain air, when a distracted driver swerves into your lane. You’re thrown off your bike, your wrist throbbing, and your mind racing—what now? Bicycle accidents can be overwhelming, but knowing what to do can protect your health, rights, and future. Utah law gives you specific protections, and acting quickly can make all the difference. Let’s break it down into simple, actionable steps.
Step-by-Step Guide
- Ensure Your Safety First
If you’re in the road, move to a safe spot if you can—Salt Lake City streets like 700 East can be busy. If you’re seriously hurt, stay put and call 911.
- Why It Matters: Your safety is priority one. Plus, emergency responders create reports that can support your case.
- Why It Matters: Your safety is priority one. Plus, emergency responders create reports that can support your case.
- Seek Medical Attention
Even if you feel “fine,” see a doctor. Injuries like concussions or internal bruising might not show up right away.
- Local Tip: Head to Intermountain Medical Center or a nearby urgent care in Salt Lake City—they’re equipped for accident victims. Keep all medical records; they’re crucial for claims.
- Local Tip: Head to Intermountain Medical Center or a nearby urgent care in Salt Lake City—they’re equipped for accident victims. Keep all medical records; they’re crucial for claims.
- Report the Accident
Call the Salt Lake City Police Department to file a report, especially if a vehicle was involved. Utah law requires reporting accidents with injuries or significant damage.
- Pro Tip: Get the officer’s name and report number—it’s key evidence for insurance or legal claims.
- Pro Tip: Get the officer’s name and report number—it’s key evidence for insurance or legal claims.
- Gather Evidence at the Scene
Snap photos of your bike, the vehicle, road conditions, and your injuries. Collect contact info from witnesses—cyclists on the Wasatch Front often have dashcams or can corroborate your story.
- Example: A cyclist on 200 South got a witness’s statement that proved the driver ran a red light, strengthening their claim.
- Example: A cyclist on 200 South got a witness’s statement that proved the driver ran a red light, strengthening their claim.
- Notify Your Insurance (And Theirs)
Report the accident to your insurance company, and if a driver was at fault, contact their insurer too. Utah operates under a fault-based system, so the at-fault party’s insurance should cover your damages.
- What to Say: Stick to the facts—don’t admit fault or speculate.
- What to Say: Stick to the facts—don’t admit fault or speculate.
- Consult a Bicycle Accident Attorney in Salt Lake City
If you’re facing medical bills, bike repairs, or lost wages, a lawyer can help. They’ll navigate Utah’s laws, like the comparative negligence rule, which can reduce your compensation if you’re partially at fault.
- Ceda Law Group Pitch: At Ceda Law Group, we’ve helped Salt Lake City cyclists recover what they deserve—call us for a free consultation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Not Getting Medical Care: “I’ll tough it out” can backfire—unseen injuries worsen, and lack of records weakens your case.
- Admitting Fault: Saying “I’m sorry” at the scene can be used against you. Let the facts speak.
- Delaying Action: Utah has a three-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, but evidence fades fast—act now.
Take Control of Your Recovery
A bicycle accident can leave you shaken, but you’ve got more power than you think. Follow these steps, and you’ll be on the path to healing—physically and financially. Ceda Law Group is here for Salt Lake City cyclists—contact us today for a free case review.
