Staying calm and being proactive after a motorcycle accident can be difficult when you are standing in the street and dealing with the tumult and stress of a crash. But acting reasonably and calmly can keep you and others safe and protect your legal rights.
Be safe
Even before you think about a personal injury lawsuit, your most important task after a motorcycle accident is assuring your safety.
Leave your motorcycle in the road unless it poses a danger. Keep your gear and helmet on until first responders arrive so you do not aggravate any injuries. Call 9-1-1 if you or anyone else is injured.
Contact police
Never leave the scene of the accident. Contact the police, even if the crash is minor.
The police will file a report, which may be important if you file a lawsuit. Police may also take photographs of the accident scene and gather information from witnesses. Be sure to find out how you can obtain a copy of the police report.
Gather information
Obtain insurance, tag number, license information and contact information from other motorists. Seek the name and phone numbers of any witnesses. Never apologize, lie or admit fault.
You can use your phone to photograph or videotape all damaged vehicles, the accident scene, any damaged property and traffic signs.
If you are injured, however, seek immediate assistance. Others can gather this information, except for insurance details, for you.
Medical aid
Seek medical assistance even if you believe you are unhurt because you may not realize that you have an injury. Because of the adrenaline rush following an accident, you may not suffer pain until later.
Also, you will need a medical report if you claim compensation for injuries. The defendant may claim that you are not entitled to compensation for injuries if you did not seek care.
Insurance
You need to contact your insurance company even if the accident is not your fault. You should contact your attorney first, however, before you provide details of the accident.
Records
Hold on to any bills or invoices associated with the accident. These include:
- Details of missed work and absences
- Repair or scrap costs for your motorcycle
- Medical and rehabilitation bills
- Medication bills
- Costs for childcare
- Travel expenses related to medical appointments and rehabilitation
An attorney can assist you with dealing with insurance companies and determining your options and right to compensation after a motorcycle crash. They can represent your interests in legal proceedings and negotiations.
