Due to the nature of the vehicle, getting into a motorcycle often results in serious injuries or fatalities, and is one of the most dangerous types of accidents you or a loved one could suffer from. If you’ve been hurt in a motorcycle accident, follow these steps immediately to ensure you get the coverage you deserve.
Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident
Although each motorcycle accident is unique, there are some general steps that everyone involved should follow.
A motorcycle accident lawyer will be able to advise you on the best course of action as well as the steps you should take. However, there are certain steps that should be taken regardless of whether or not you have retained a lawyer.
Here are the 6 steps on what to do after a motorcycle accident.
Step 1. Seek medical attention.
A minor motorcycle accident could result in just a few bumps and bruises, but anything more serious could leave the driver with a head injury or broken bones. Regardless of what kind of spill you or your loved one suffered from, seek medical attention immediately to check for any underlying injuries.
Step 2. File a police report.
Immediately after your accident, get out of the roadway as soon as you can. Continuing to take up space in the road is dangerous and could result in another collision if a driver isn’t paying attention. Call the police to come assess the situation and put together a police report. The officer will speak to all parties involved separately to get everyone’s point of view, then will name fault in the report.
Step 3. Talk to witnesses.
If anyone who witnessed the accident pulled over to help, talk to them to get their accounts of what happened. What they saw might have been much different from what you remember in the moment, so it’s a good idea to speak to multiple witnesses if possible, especially if you weren’t the driver at fault. They can corroborate your story and strengthen your personal injury case.
Step 4. File an insurance claim.
The next step is to file a claim with your insurance company. You’ll want to get the damages to your bike fixed as soon as possible, especially if it’s your main or only mode of transportation. You’ll bring the police report to your insurance agent and they can help you to make your claim.
Step 5. Talk to a personal injury attorney.
Getting into a motorcycle accident can be hazy, and many judges can rule out of favor of the motorcyclist if they weren’t wearing the proper gear. Working with a personal injury attorney can help make sure that doesn’t happen. You deserve to get on with your life, and you need compensation for the damages to your bike and to your body to do so.
When riding your motorcycle, remember to always wear protective gear and a helmet. If you or a loved one gets into a motorcycle accident, contact The May Firm today to discuss your case.