I was hit today. What should I have done?

So I read much of the articles and fb posts that Chainlink puts out, but I don't post much.  I appreciate any advice you might have for me.

 

I thought I saw an article here some time back that was dedicated to advice about what to do if you are ever in an accident.  I can't seem to find it.

 

At 3:10 - 3:20ish today I was headed south in the slow lane of Kimball just north of Belmont.  The right turn only lane was full of stopped cars waiting on the light, which was fine with me since I was headed south through the intersection. So I continue straight to the left of the stopped cars (that are turning right) and a large white windowless econo van had stopped short to let out a jeep (unbeknownst to me) exiting the small strip mall at 3216 N Kimball.  The jeep, seeing the stopped van looked at the northbound Kimball traffic but neglected to see me (maybe because of the van) and pulled out t-boning me.  My front wheel went under the bike and I tumbled off the hood.

 

He backed into the lot and parked and I got his phone number (called it immediately to verify), a photo of his plates, and a photo of insurance.  I was so frazzled that I didn't ask to get a photo of his driver's license.

 

After some hemming and hawing - I did not immediately call the police and he offered $80 to fix my bike (likely not enough).  It’s a '63 Schwinn varsity that my father in law bought brand new and gave it to me.

 

I called my wife to pick me up and we went to the 14th district station to file a report (HY-460583).

 

I plan on setting an appointment with my doctor for a once over.  My leg was barely scuffed, but getting it looked at won't hurt.

 

What did I do wrong so that I'm better prepared next time?  Where should I take my bike for repairs?  I've been to several shops, but just don't have a favorite.

thanks.

shane

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Permalink Reply by Jordan M S on October 13, 2015 at 2:34pm
I have a few things to say, but really my advice comes down to: contact a bike lawyer. I think it would have been better to have an accident report immediately I presume - I know it didnt seem like a big deal at the time (I wouldn't have thought to do it myself when it happened to me except for the fact I had fellow bikers around when I got hit that told me point blank to do so) but it was an accident and that's what CPD are there for. As far as the police report and how to deal with the police, again that's something that can be answered by professionals (lawyers).
Also, don't discount your injuries as trivial, especially not until you wake up tomorrow morning. Being knocked off your bike for any reason is a big deal for your body!
I'm glad you didn't take the 80 bucks, and your next step at the minimum would be dealing with their insurance - again, you need a bike lawyer (I had an excellent experience with Freeman Kevenides and there's another one connected with chainlink I think).
I have been hit several times, but I'm not an expert (again, those are the lawyers!).
Permalink Reply by Mike Keating on October 14, 2015 at 2:07am

Shane, 

I'm a longtime sponsor of theChainlink and focus on bicycle cases. The "Illinois Bicycle Lawyer" ad to the right is me. I'd be happy to talk to you about this. Email me at mike@keatinglegal.com or call my cell anytime: 312-208-7702. 

By the way, you pretty much did everything right in terms of getting information and documenting the crash. The bottom line is call me anytime you have any questions. We are here to help.

We recently did an Infographic on this very subject. But Jordan is right, if you have any questions contact me anytime. I'll always take your call and all initial consultations are always free and with no obligation. At a minimum I'm always able to answer people's questions. 

I hope you are ok. Take care. 

Permalink Reply by Jive Ace Tofurkey on October 14, 2015 at 9:23am

Thank you for the replies.  I appreciate it.  I'm definitely more sore today.  I've set a an appointment with my Dr.

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