WHAT SHOULD A CYCLIST DO AFTER BEING INVOLVED IN A TRAFFIC ACCIDENT?

*The information generally applies to Turkey

Experiencing a traffic accident can be traumatic. However, taking the right steps helps protect both your health and your legal rights. This guide explains the post-accident process clearly and practically.

1. Check Yourself First

The first thing to do after an accident is to assess yourself:

• Are you conscious?
• Do you have bleeding, fractures, or injuries?

If you are injured:

• Do not move unnecessarily
• Call emergency services (112)

Even if you think you are unharmed:

👉 If you hit your head, get checked at a hospital.

Some injuries and symptoms may appear later.

2. Prevent a Secondary Accident

• One of the biggest risks after a crash is a second accident.
• Move yourself and your bicycle to a safe location
• Do not remain in a position that endangers traffic
• Ask for help from people nearby if necessary

3. Documenting the Scene Is Critical

One of the most important steps to avoid losing your rights is collecting evidence.

📸 Be sure to record:

• Damage to the bicycle
• The vehicle’s condition and license plate
• The road, intersection, and traffic signs
• Brake marks and impact points

👥 If possible:

• Get witness names and contact information

4. Accident Report / Police Procedure

Depending on the type of accident, there are two possible procedures:

✔ If there is only property damage:

• An accident report form is completed.

✔ If there are injuries or disagreements:

• Police or gendarmerie should be called.

📌 Important:

• The report must clearly state that you were riding a bicycle
• Never sign documents before reading them carefully

5. Bicycle Damage Process

A bicycle is legally considered a vehicle, and damage compensation may be claimed.

Steps to follow:

1. Take the bicycle to a service shop
2. Have the damage assessed
3. Obtain a report and invoice

During the insurance process:

• An insurance adjuster may be assigned
• Compensation is paid according to the damage report

6. Insurance Claim

Damages are generally covered by the other party’s traffic insurance.

Required documents usually include:

• Accident report / police report
• Photos
• Repair invoice or damage assessment
• ID and bank account information (IBAN)

📌 If payment is denied:

👉 You may apply to the Insurance Arbitration Commission, which is usually faster than court proceedings.

7. Your Rights Are Not Limited to the Bicycle

After an accident, you may claim compensation for:

• 🚲 Bicycle repair or replacement
• 🪖 Equipment damage (helmet, glasses, clothing)
• 💼 Loss of income
• 🧠 Moral compensation / emotional damages (in case of injury)

8. Most Common Mistakes

• Leaving the scene saying “I’m fine”
• Not taking photos or videos
• Settling without an official report
• Not getting a medical report

👉 These mistakes can make it much harder to claim your rights later.

9. Remember: A Cyclist Is Also a Driver in Traffic

In Türkiye, bicycles are legally recognized as vehicles and therefore have both rights and responsibilities.

This means you fully have the right to seek compensation after an accident.

SUMMARY

After an accident, focus on these 4 essential steps:

1. Health
2. Safety
3. Documentation
4. Official procedures

If you handle these correctly, you will have control over most of the process.