Bicycle accident-immediate help checklist: This is how you behave correctly

In a bicycle accident, minutes or even seconds often decide how serious the consequences will be. That's precisely why it's important that you know how to react correctly in such a situation. This guide prepares you for an emergency and gives you a clear plan of action so that you can act calmly and thoughtfully in an emergency. With this knowledge you are prepared – for yourself and for others.

Immediate measures: The first minute is crucial

Your own safety is always top priority! Before you help others, you must protect yourself.

1. Get a quick overview of the situation

2. Get yourself out of the danger zone (e.g. away from moving traffic)

3. Position your bike as a warning sign or use a warning triangle if available

4. Turn on your bike's hazard lights, if equipped

5. In the dark, wear your reflective vest or use the lighting on your smartphone

📍 Quick location help

The emergency call app "Nora" automatically transmits your GPS location to the rescue control center - perfect if you don't know the exact address in a panic.

First aid for injured people (basic principles)

Staying calm is the be-all and end-all of first aid. 

1. Speak to the injured person and check their ability to react

2. Check breathing and pulse

3. If unconscious: in a stable position on your side

4. If you are not breathing: Start resuscitation measures immediately (30 chest compressions, 2 rescue breaths)

5. If bleeding: Press the wound with a clean cloth or bandage material

6. If bone fractures are suspected: immobilize the affected part and do not move it

Important: Only remove the helmet if no breathing can be detected or if the injured person is conscious and expressly requests this

⏱️ Golden rule for head injuries

After a head-involved fall, you should watch for symptoms such as nausea, blurred vision, or confusion for 48 hours - these could indicate a concussion.

When and how to make the emergency call

If in doubt, always call emergency services! It's better to have too much than too little.

The emergency number 112 is valid throughout Europe and is free of charge.

You should have the following information ready (remember: W-questions):

• Where did the accident happen? (street name, intersection, prominent points)
• What happened? (Short description)
• How many Are there any injuries?
• Which Are there injuries?
• Wait for inquiries! Don't hang up until the dispatcher tells you to.

Pro tip: Use emergency call apps that automatically transmit your location.

The accident checklist: step by step

Document the accident scene in detail – this can be crucial for insurance and legal questions later.

1. Photograph the accident scene from different angles

2. Record the position of vehicles, bicycles and relevant objects

3. Photograph damage to bicycles, cars or other objects

4. Take pictures of skid marks, broken glass or other signs of an accident

5. Create a simple sketch with the most important positions

Data collection of those involved in the accident

Collect all important contact details of those involved:

• Full name
• Address
• Telephone number
• Email address
• For drivers: license plate number, vehicle type, insurance and insurance number
• For cyclists: type of bicycle, possibly frame number

Witnesses

Speak to possible witnesses directly before they leave the scene of the accident and note their contact details (name, telephone number, email). If possible, ask them to provide a brief description of what happened in the accident and ask the witnesses if they would be willing to repeat their statements at a later date. 

Master special situations

At one Solo accident Good documentation is often just as important as in accidents involving other people. Even if you fell alone, you should photograph the scene of the accident and the cause of the fall, especially if infrastructure deficiencies such as potholes or defective bike paths led to the accident. In the event of such defects, it may make sense to inform the responsible authority in order to avoid further accidents and possibly assert claims.

In the event of accidents with other road users

When dealing with others involved in an accident, it is important to remain objective and avoid assigning blame, as this often only exacerbates the situation. Politely but firmly insist on exchanging all relevant data and always call the police in the event of accidents involving motor vehicles, even if the damage appears to be minor. Never sign any documents at the scene of an accident, especially any acknowledgments of guilt - you should only make such decisions after legal advice and calmly.

Accidents involving children

Particular caution is required in accidents involving children, as they often perceive injuries differently or are unable to assess them correctly. Even if the injuries seem harmless at first glance, you should always insist on a medical examination, especially for head injuries - even if a helmet was worn. Inform the parents or guardians immediately and remain calm and reassuring when dealing with the child to avoid panic.

Accidents in bad weather or in the dark

Adverse circumstances such as rain, snow or darkness require additional safety measures. Secure the scene of the accident particularly well and use all available aids such as your smartphone flashlight, reflectors or bicycle lights to increase visibility. Be aware of the increased risk of slipping when wet and ensure that everyone involved is taken to a safe, dry place to avoid hypothermia or further accidents.

Accident? Helmet protects!

We can't always avoid accidents, but you can do something preventative to protect your head with the right KED helmet!

Protect your head

After the accident: The most important next steps

Even after your accident, there are a few important aspects that you should consider. 

Medical follow-up care

Never underestimate injuries – even if they seem harmless at first. After any physical contact accident, you should see a doctor who can professionally assess and document your injuries, which can be crucial for insurance claims later. Pay particular attention to symptoms that may be delayed, such as dizziness, headaches, or nausea, as these could indicate more serious injuries. For a full recovery, it is important that you follow all doctor's instructions for aftercare and attend follow-up appointments.

Inform insurance companies

Report the accident to all relevant insurance companies promptly to secure your claims. This usually includes your private accident insurance, liability insurance and health insurance - if you are traveling on business, you should also inform your employer as it could be a commuting accident. Carefully collect and keep all receipts for accident-related expenses, including taxi fares, medications and repairs, so that you can submit them to the insurance company later.

Pay attention to legal aspects

Know your rights and obligations after a bicycle accident to best protect your interests. In the event of accidents that result in property damage or personal injury, you are usually entitled to compensation, but you must observe the deadline for reporting damage, which is often one week. If the case is more complicated or there is greater damage, it may make sense to seek legal advice in order to enforce your claims. When making statements to the police, it is important to describe what happened soberly and objectively, without hasty accusations or speculation.

Prevention: Travel safely with KED

Predictive driving is the best protection against accidents! To avoid accidents, you should always keep a sufficient distance from other road users (especially from the door opening area of ​​parked cars), observe traffic rules and right of way and use existing cycle paths. 

Ensure good visibility with reflective clothing and functioning lighting, avoid distracting headphones in traffic and regularly check the functionality of your bike - especially brakes, tires and lights. With a high quality KED helmet, which was developed for your specific needs, you are also optimally protected and can enjoy your independence on two wheels with the certainty that you have taken care of your safety in the best possible way.