In 2022, motorcycle accidents accounted for 14.3% of all traffic accidents. These accidents can be traumatic and end in devastating injury or death.
If you’re a motorcyclist, you may know all the motorcycle safety tips, but it’s just as important to know the steps to take following a motorcycle accident. Although this process begins with seeking medical attention, there are several post-accident steps to take to protect your rights and navigate the aftermath of an accident. If you’re wondering which steps to take next, we can help.
Here’s a guide to 11 crucial steps to take after a motorcycle accident.
1. Ensure Your Safety First
A motorcycle accident can occur when you least expect it. Even if you’re riding safely, an accident can occur with devastating consequences. These types of accidents can be traumatic experiences, resulting in serious injury or death.
When you’re involved in a motorcycle accident, you must first ensure your safety and the safety of others. If possible, move yourself and your motorcycle out of the road to prevent another accident. Use your hazard lights, a road flare, or warning triangles to alert others on the road.
2. Check for Injuries
You may feel disoriented following a motorcycle accident. If possible, assess yourself for any injuries. Even if you think your injuries are minor, you should call 911, requesting medical assistance to the scene of the accident.
When an ambulance or medical help arrives, accept their help. In the aftermath of an accident, you may not realize the extent of your injuries. Some accident injuries may not be apparent right away. That’s why it’s so important to make sure you receive a full medical evaluation following a motorcycle accident.
3. Call the Police
No matter the extent of the accident, you should call the police and report the accident. A police report serves as an official record of the accident. This could serve as evidence for any potential legal or insurance claims down the road.
When the police arrive at the scene, be sure to offer accurate information about the events of the accident. Avoid taking the blame for the crash or making any speculative statements to the police or other accident victims.
4. Do Not Admit Fault
The moments following a motorcycle accident can be chaotic. Your first instinct may be to apologize or take the blame. Fight the urge to do this.
If you admit fault, your words could be used against you at a later time. This is also true when dealing with the insurance company. Choose your words carefully and avoid any sort of admission that could negatively affect your claim.
5. Gather Important Information
Gather any information possible at the scene of the accident. Critical information includes:
- The contact information and insurance details of the parties involved
- The names and badge numbers of the responding officers
- Make, model, and plate number of the other vehicle
- Witness contact information
- Photos of your motorcycle, other vehicles, visible injuries, and accident scene.
Your smartphone is a useful tool following an accident. The pictures or videos you take following an accident can be used to strengthen your case if it goes to trial.
6. Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance company to report the accident as soon as possible. Offer the relevant details and follow the instructions to file a claim. Give an honest account of the accident, but avoid any written statements or accepting blame until you’ve spoken with a motorcycle accident attorney.
7. Understand Your Insurance Coverage
Take the time to read and understand your insurance policy. It’s a good idea to know what is covered under your plan, such as medical costs and property damage.
Understand the limits on insurance payouts. Being informed can help you avoid unexpected surprises and ensure you’re getting appropriate compensation for your claim. Before you accept a quick insurance settlement, consult a personal injury lawyer who can help you understand your rights and navigate the legal process.
8. Seek Medical Attention
Even if you received medical care immediately following the accident, you should follow up with a doctor. Some serious injuries like concussions or internal bleeding may not be evident right away. Some injuries may not be apparent for hours, days, or even weeks after a crash. Your medical records may be valuable evidence if you pursue legal action for damages.
9. Document Everything
Keep detailed records of any accident-related expenses. Save documentation of medical bills, lost wages, therapy, rental car costs, or other expenses related to your accident. It’s a good idea to keep a log of how your injuries are affecting your daily life. This information may be crucial if you decide to pursue further legal action.
10. Consult a Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Consult a personal injury lawyer who specializes in motorcycle accident cases. Their experience and knowledge of accident prevention and motorcycle laws are key to helping you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries. They have the legal knowledge necessary to protect your rights and negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf.
11. Follow Up With Your Doctor
If you’re pursuing a motorcycle accident claim, listen to your doctor and adhere to your treatment plan. Failing to follow up with your doctor or attend scheduled appointments could jeopardize your health and negatively impact your motorcycle accident claim. The insurance company could argue that your injuries weren’t severe if you fail to follow through on your medical appointments or physical therapy.
Steps to Take Following a Motorcycle Accident
Dealing with a serious injury following a motorcycle accident is difficult and stressful, to say the least. You may be facing mounting medical bills, lost wages, or emotional turmoil.
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident, it’s in your best interest to consult a motorcycle accident attorney as soon as possible. At Cummings Law, we will fight aggressively for the compensation you deserve.
Brian Cummings is an experienced motorcycle accident attorney committed to protecting the rights of motorcyclists. We understand how difficult the aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be and will work to get you the highest possible compensation.
Contact Cummings Law today to schedule a consultation.
Posted in: Motorcycle Accidents