Every day, a bicycle accident happens nearly every single minute nationwide. Each year, more than 500,000 people are injured and 700 cyclists killed nationwide in bicycle accidents, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Sadly, Missouri is not immune to bicycle accidents. More than 2 million people ride bicycles regularly in Missouri. Just recently, a 44-year-old cyclist was killed in Kirksville when a tractor-trailer truck struck his bike one recent Tuesday morning.

Many cities and states have passed laws requiring cyclists, especially children, to wear helmets at all times. Laws vary throughout the country. In Missouri, some municipalities have laws requiring cyclists to wear helmets, while other communities do not have such laws. But you should know that wearing a bicycle “helmet is the single most effective way to prevent head injury,” according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. And especially in the case of children, wearing a properly fitted helmet can significantly reduce the risk of head injuries. One study found that bicycle helmets reduce the risk of head injuries in children by 63 percent.

Even so, bicycle accidents happen. What would you do if you were injured in one? Do you have an action plan for how you would handle such a traumatic event? Here are some suggested steps you can take if you’re injured in a bicycle accident, especially one involving a car or any other kind of motor vehicle.

• Contact the police. Even if you don’t think you’re injured, make sure the police come to the accident. Be especially sure police take your statement about the accident. This is your chance to tell your side of the story.
• Gather information. Write down the names, phone numbers and addresses of all witnesses and drivers involved in the accident. Write down anything important about the scene of the accident. Traffic signs, road conditions, anything out of the ordinary. Don’t miss your opportunity to record this information.
• Seek immediate medical attention. Your life could be at stake. Just because you don’t think you’re injured doesn’t mean you’re okay. Let a medical professional decide whether or not you’re healthy.

Don’t let a bicycle accident ruin your life. Take action. Contact the Law Offices of Tolbert Beadle & Musgrave. Our skilled attorneys can expertly handle your bicycle accident injury case. When you choose us, we will work tirelessly to get you the compensation and justice you deserve for your bicycle accident injury.

Bicycle accident injury cases are complicated. Don’t leave your future to chance. Go with the legal team that knows how to win: Tolbert Beadle & Musgrave. They’re on your side.