Phoenix is one of the fastest-growing cycling cities in the Southwest — and one of the most dangerous for cyclists. When a car hits a bike, the window for protecting your legal rights opens immediately and starts closing. Here's what actually matters in the first 48 hours.
At the scene
Call 911. A police report is the foundation of your insurance claim and creates an official record of what happened. Even if you feel okay, let paramedics evaluate you — adrenaline masks pain, and traumatic brain injuries, internal injuries, and spinal trauma frequently show no obvious symptoms at the scene. Before you leave: photograph all vehicles, the bike, skid marks, road conditions, traffic signals or signs, and any visible injuries. Note the locations of any traffic or business surveillance cameras in the area — that footage gets overwritten in 24 to 72 hours. Get the driver's full name, license number, plate, and insurance information. Get names and contact information from every witness you can find.
The same day
Don't give a recorded statement to the other driver's insurer. They will call quickly, often within 24 hours, presenting as helpful. Decline. You have no legal obligation to provide one, and recorded statements are used to minimize claims. Get medical care that same day even if the ER cleared you — follow up with your primary care doctor or an urgent care and establish a more complete medical record. Start a written log of your symptoms, pain levels, and how the injury is affecting your daily activities.
Within 48 hours
Contact a bicycle accident attorney before making any decision about the claim. Evidence preservation letters need to go out immediately — to the driver's insurer, to any business near the scene that may have surveillance footage, and if a government entity may be involved, to the relevant agency. The first settlement offer that comes in is almost never the right one. An attorney can evaluate what the claim is actually worth before you make any irreversible decisions.
Our bicycle accident attorneys handle claims throughout Phoenix and Scottsdale on a contingency fee basis. No fee unless we win. Call (480) 418-SHER (7437) or reach out online.