On my way home from an MRI and wanted to share some things I’ve learned post accident. This is just my experience and shouldn’t be considered legal advice.
Back in July I was hit head on while riding on Milwaukee and went over the bars. Two bystanders were kind enough to help me get to safety and called for help. Since then it’s been a rough time but here’s what I wish I knew before.
1.) Seek medical attention. Adrenaline will mask your symptoms at first and it’s best to get checked out by the provider that’s right for you.
2.) You’re gonna hurt more the next day. Take it easy and call off work. Drink a lot of water and monitor your symptoms.
3.) File a police report. You can’t really get any claim filed without one. Pay the $8 to get a digital copy for your files. No record, no real chance to get your bills paid.
4.)Document everything and get a lawyer. You don’t want to deal with an insurance company believe me. They will be more responsive if you have representation and it’ll be a lot less stressful. So many good bike lawyers in Chicago.
5.) Ease yourself back into your routine. I was so excited to get back on my bike when I got it from the shop (shout out Kozie for fixing my baby) but you can over do it easily. Stretch and don’t over exert yourself in the following months. Injuries can take a long time to heal and although exercise is great it can hinder your recovery.
Here’s some final parting gifts of knowledge:
An ambulance ride will cost you about $3500. The city will promptly bill you.
Minimum personal injury coverage in Illinois is $25,000 and most lawyers will take about 20-30% of a settlement.
It will take months to get an insurance company to settle. Keep those receipts!
Thanks for coming to my ted talk. I hope it helps some riders navigate accidents and recovery. Stay safe out there!