5 Things You Should Do After A Motorcycle Crash
Motorcycle accidents occur 28 times more often than cars, even though motorcyclists only make up roughly 5% of all drivers.
When you drive a motorcycle, you can never let your guard down. If you do get into an accident, you need to make the right steps to protect yourself.
This article is going to walk you through the 5 things you need to do after a motorcycle crash.
Read on to learn more!
Table of Contents
1. Safety First
You should always do your best to avoid careless accidents by following these rider safety tips. One of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents is being in a driver’s blind spot. If a car swerves into your lane without seeing you, it’s possible for you to get major injuries. Common motorcycle accident injuries include road rash, broken bones, facial disfigurement, and burns.
Your health is a priority, so check yourself for injuries and ensure that you’re okay. If you can walk, make sure you can move away from the road. Don’t leave the scene of the accident before speaking to the police. Safety is always the first priority and to stay safe on the road, you will need safety equipment. Here’s an infographic about Motorcycle Safety Equipment.
2. Call 911 After a Motorcycle Crash
Once you’re safely off the road, call 911 immediately to report the accident. Depending on how severe the scene is, police and paramedics may be dispatched. In some cases, a police officer might not be available if it is a minor crash.
Most times the police will be able to come, though. Speaking with them is crucial for building your case. Their job is to interview the drivers, any witnesses who can shed light on who caused the motorcycle accident, take photos as evidence, and document every detail of the accident for a police report.
Be sure to cooperate fully and never admit fault to the officer or the other driver. All of the information collected for the police report can and will be used in court.
3. Collect Information
Even if a police officer comes to document the scene, it’s always wise to gather your own evidence, too. Take pictures of the vehicles and any injuries you may have sustained.
Speak with the other driver only to swap insurance information. Don’t say anything else because they will try to use what you say against you in court. Be sure to write down the officer’s police badge number, the report number, all of the license plates involved, and any other relevant contact information.
4. Contact Your Insurance Provider
Informing your insurance agency as soon as you can after a crash is always best. Never admit fault and don’t be afraid to decline to answer certain questions. Your job is to only report the basic information of the crash for their records.
If they ask about personal or vehicular damage, tell them that you’ll provide the information after you see a doctor and mechanic. If you underestimate any damages, you can cheat yourself from rightful compensation.
5. Speak to a Lawyer
There are plenty of reasons why you should seek legal protection. Whether you need to prove your innocence or get more money from your insurance agency, an attorney can be your most helpful tool. If you need a Los Angeles motorcycle accident attorney, Ghozland Law Firm is dedicated to helping you win your case.
A motorcycle accident attorney will help you navigate the sticky communications between the police and another driver. They will use all of the evidence gathered at the scene to build a case that proves you were not at fault. This way, you can feel assured that you will receive rightful compensation for your injuries and your motorcycle.
Want More Legal Help?
If you’ve been in a motorcycle crash or any other accident, having the right lawyer is crucial. Halt Law Directory is your best resource for matching you with an attorney that suits your legal needs. If you have any questions about how our services can help you, please contact us.
