Bike Pittsburgh - Good tips if you are in an accident, they apply, but change Pittsburgh to Columbus!

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In a Crash?

Unfortunately, sometimes smooth sailing isn’t in the cards for everyone riding Pittsburgh’s streets. If you are in a crash, though. Here are some things you should do.
  1. If you are in pain, stay put. Don’t try to move. You could end up injuring yourself even more
  2. Call 9-1-1 or tell someone else to do it for you.
  3. Make sure to get the driver’s a) Name b) License Plate c) Insurance Info d) Contact Info. If there are any witnesses, get their name and contact info as well. Although you may be injured and incapacitated at the accident scene, that is your only chance to identify the motorist who hit you and the witness(s). After the ambulance takes you away, you will never get another chance to obtain this. It is not uncommon for the police officers to fail to get this information after the victim has left the scene. Ask someone to write down the tag number and their own information and give it to you, or put it in you pocket.If a bus is involved click here for more information on how to handle the Port Authority.
  4. Get a Police Report. Sometimes you may not feel pain until the next day and may need to see a doctor. Even if you don’t call 9-1-1, it’s important to get a police report. A police report can be filed at any time, even after the fact, and will be necessary if you need compensation for medical bills.
  5. Contact a lawyer.
  6. Contact your city councilperson and tell them your story and that you want safer cycling conditions in the city. Also dial 311 and tell the Mayor about the road hazard or dangerous situation.

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