According to a report from KGW 8, a seven-year-old child was seriously injured after being struck by a vehicle while riding his bike. The collision occurred in McMinnville, about an hour southwest of Portland. The child was transported via medical helicopter to the Willamette Valley Medical Center. The collision is still under investigation by the law enforcement.
Motorists have a legal responsibility to look out for the health and safety of bicyclists—especially children. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that boys between the ages of 5 and 14 are at the highest risk of severe bike accident injuries. Here, our Portland bicycle accident lawyer explains what you need to do if your child is hurt in a bike accident in Oregon.
What to Do If Your Child is Hit By a Car While Riding a Bike in Oregon
If your child was injured while riding a bike, it is imperative that you take swift action to protect their health, safety, and rights. Negligent drivers must be held accountable. Here are four steps to take if your child is struck by a vehicle while riding a bicycle in Portland:
- Seek Emergency Medical Attention: A child involved in a bike-vehicle crash needs immediate medical attention. All bike injuries should be evaluated by a doctor. A child’s medical needs always come first. Emergency care and follow-up care is required.
- Report & Document the Crash: When a car strikes a child on a bike resulting in injuries, that collision should be reported to the police. It is the law in Oregon. Make sure that the crash is fully documented.
- Avoid Giving a Statement to an Insurance Company: As a parent, you may get a phone call from the driver’s insurance company. Keep in mind that the insurer is not on your side. You have no legal responsibility to provide an insurer with a recorded statement.
- Get Professional Help: You do not have to navigate the personal injury claims process alone. Your child deserves justice and you need compensation to pay your bills. A Portland bicycle accident attorney will protect your family’s rights and interests.
As a parent, you have the right to initiate a personal injury claim on behalf of your child. Though, there are some specialized rules and regulations that apply to these cases. It is crucial that you work with a Portland child injury attorney who has experience handling bike accident claims.
Schedule a Free Consultation With a Bike Accident Injury Lawyer in Portland, OR
At The Johnston Law Firm, LLC, our Oregon personal injury attorney has extensive experience representing bike accident victims. If you or your loved one was hurt in a collision with a motor vehicle, we can help. Call us at (503) 546-3167 or contact our legal team for your free, no obligation initial consultation. From our Portland law office, we handle bike accident claims throughout the region, including in Lake Oswego, Beaverton, Tigard, Hillsboro, and Gresham.