One Call, That’s All 800-404-9000
CASE EVALUATIONS ARE FAST, EASY, AND FREE.
According to the Arizona Department of Transportation, there were 1,379 bicycle crashes across the state in 2024. If you’re hurt in a bicycle crash in Mesa, your next steps can significantly impact your ability to file a successful bicycle accident claim in Mesa.
Bicycle crashes can leave cyclists dealing with not just physical injuries, but legal and financial challenges. Knowing what to do immediately after a crash helps protect your health, your rights, and your future recovery.
Our Mesa bicycle accident lawyer at Craig Swapp & Associates always emphasizes that the decisions you make in those early moments and days can affect how well your bicycle accident claim is resolved, whether through settlement or court judgment.
Whether the crash was caused by a distracted driver, a pothole, or unsafe road conditions, take the following actions to protect your health and your right to compensation.
Move out of harm’s way as best you can. If you’re still on the road or in a high-traffic area, try to reach a sidewalk or the shoulder.
Some bicycle accident injuries, such as internal bleeding, concussions, or fractures, may not be obvious right away. Even if you’re able to stand, note any dizziness, swelling, or sharp pain and avoid minimizing your symptoms.
Always report the accident, even if it seems minor. Request both law enforcement and medical assistance. The Mesa Police Department will typically prepare an official crash report, which is crucial for documenting the incident.
Even if paramedics clear you at the scene, follow up with a doctor. Medical records serve two key purposes: ensuring your injuries are treated properly and supporting your bicycle accident claim in Mesa.
If a driver was involved, ask for their:
Stay calm and avoid confrontation. Never admit fault, even casually.
Witnesses can help verify your version of events. Get their names and phone numbers if they’re willing to provide them. Their testimony could make a big difference if the driver disputes liability.
Use your phone to take photos or videos of:
Make notes about what happened while your memory is fresh, including the time of day, how the crash occurred, and any verbal exchanges with the driver.
Do not repair your bicycle, wash your clothes, or throw away damaged gear. Keep everything in the condition it was immediately after the accident. These items may become evidence later.
Legal representation from a personal injury lawyer in Arizona helps protect your rights. A lawyer can deal with the insurance companies, gather further evidence, and determine the full value of your claim.
You or your lawyer should inform the at-fault driver’s insurer that you plan to file an injury claim. Be careful not to give a recorded statement or accept a quick settlement without legal counsel. You may also need to notify your own insurer, depending on the coverage you carry.
Cyclists in Mesa are granted many of the same rights and responsibilities as motor vehicle drivers. They must also follow the same traffic laws, but also benefit from legal protections when others cause harm. If a driver hits a cyclist, they can be held liable for the resulting damages.
It’s also important to note that, despite these legal protections, taking the right steps is crucial. Arizona follows a pure comparative fault system. That means even if you were partially at fault (e.g., not wearing visible clothing at night or failing to signal), you can still recover damages; your total compensation will simply be reduced by your percentage of fault.
Arizona sets a statute of limitations of 2 years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit. This includes accidents that lead to wrongful death, starting from the date of the person’s death.
There are some exceptions that apply:
Consulting a personal injury lawyer can help you determine your filing window and preserve your right to compensation.
Bicycle accidents are often blamed on the cyclist, especially in cases without witnesses. A lawyer’s role is to investigate the crash, prove liability, and handle all legal and insurance hurdles so you can focus on healing.
Here’s how an experienced bicycle accident lawyer in Mesa can help:
If fair compensation can’t be reached in negotiations, your attorney can take your case to court.
Whether you’re filing a bicycle accident claim in Mesa or dealing with pushback from the insurance company, the legal guidance you choose matters. At Craig Swapp & Associates, we have dedicated personal injury lawyers in Arizona ready to help the moment you reach out for help after a bicycle crash.
Call us at 480-605-2499 or send us a message about your case by answering our online form here to schedule your free consultation.
Written By: Ryan Swapp Legal Review By: Craig Swapp