It may be difficult to know what to do following a motorcycle accident. This is especially true if you have never been involved in a traffic accident. However, the steps that a rider takes immediately after following the crash can have a substantial impact on the success of an insurance claim. Below are seven steps a Tennessee motorcycle attorney recommends riders to take following a motorcycle accident.
Seven Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident in Tennessee
1. Report the motorcycle accident immediately.
Calling 911 is typically the quickest and easiest way to report a motorcycle crash. An accident should be reported to the police even though the rider may not believe he or she is seriously injured. A written accident report is an important piece of evidence in an insurance accident claim. This is because it is official evidence that the crash occurred, and it may state that the other driver’s actions contributed to the cause of the crash.
2. Seek medical attention for injuries.
Motorcyclists are at a high risk for severe injuries in a motorcycle crash because of the lack of protection provided by the vehicle. Therefore, many riders are transported directly to the emergency room from the accident scene by an ambulance. However, riders who do not go to the emergency room should see their doctor for an examination as soon as possible. Delays in seeking medical care can be used by an insurance provider to claim that the injuries were not sustained in the crash because the rider did not see a doctor for days or weeks following the crash.
3. Make videos of the accident scene or take photographs.
Videos of the accident scene before the vehicles are moved can help prove fault for a motorcycle accident. Whenever possible, a rider should try to make a video or take photographs of the accident scene. However, only do this if doing so does not put the rider or others at risk for injury or harm.
4. Do not agree to provide written or recorded statements for insurance companies.
An insurance adjuster may request that an accident victim provide a recorded or written statement to process an insurance claim. The adjuster may explain that the statement is necessary to open a claim or to investigate a claim. However, requesting victim statements is an insurance tactic used by many companies to obtain information they intend to use to undervalue or deny valid injury claims. It is best to consult with a Tennessee motorcycle attorney before providing any statements or signing any releases or documents. Make the right call before it is too late.
5. Document injuries with written notes and photographs.
As the rider recovers from injuries sustained in the accident, it is a good idea to document the recovery with written notes and photographs. Photographs of the injuries immediately after the crash and throughout recover can help prove the severity of the injuries. Also, written notes about daily pain levels and the struggle to recover from injuries can also help with a pain and suffering claim. Ultimately, good pictures and solid notes help prove your damages.
6. Document all financial losses.
A motorcyclist injured in an accident may be entitled to compensation for financial losses and expenses related to the crash. However, the rider must have proof of the financial damages to receive compensation. Therefore, riders should keep careful records of all expenses related to the crash, including loss of income, medical bills, travel expenses, payment for help with household chores, and other out-of-pocket expenses.
7. Contact a Tennessee Motorcycle Attorney
Contact the personal injury attorneys at Cummings Law today. Our motorcycle injury attorneys can help you take additional steps to improve your chance of recovering maximum compensation for your claim. We’ll explain your legal rights and options for seeking compensation for your losses, damages, and injuries. Also, we will investigate the accident to gather evidence and identify the party responsible for the crash. And, we’ll deal with the insurance company so that you can focus on recovering from your motorcycle accident injuries.
Posted in: Motorcycle Accidents