Motorcycle accidents can be incredibly traumatic, both physically and emotionally. In the chaotic moments following a crash, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure of what steps to take. However, knowing what to do after a motorcycle accident can make all the difference in ensuring you take the right steps to protect your health, legal rights, and potential compensation while avoiding common pitfalls that could jeopardize your case.
This guide will walk you through the actions you should take immediately after an accident, common mistakes to avoid, and how an experienced attorney can help your claim, so you are prepared to handle the aftermath of a motorcycle accident with confidence.
Table of Contents
- 1. Ensure Your Safety and the Safety of Others
- 2. Check for Injuries
- 3. Contact Emergency Services
- 4. Gather Evidence
- 5. Exchange Information
- 6. Notify Your Insurance Company
- 7. Consult With a Motorcycle Accident Attorney
- What Not To Do After a Motorcycle Accident
- The Wolf Pack® Is Here For You After a Motorcycle Accident
- Related Articles & Info
1. Ensure Your Safety and the Safety of Others
Your first priority after a motorcycle accident should be to ensure everyone’s safety.
- Move to a safe area if possible, away from traffic. If you’re able to move, get yourself and your motorcycle to a safe spot to avoid further accidents. If traffic is heavy, moving off the road can prevent another collision.
- Turn off the motorcycle to avoid further danger. A running engine or fuel leaks can pose fire risks. Switch off your bike to eliminate these dangers.
2. Check for Injuries
Accidents can lead to serious injuries, even if you don’t feel the pain immediately.
- Assess your own injuries. Take a moment to check yourself for any injuries. Adrenaline may mask pain, so it’s important to inspect thoroughly.
- Check on others involved in the accident. If you can, check to see if anyone else involved in the accident is injured and provide assistance where necessary.
- Call 911 if anyone is injured. Even minor injuries should be addressed by professionals, as conditions like internal bleeding might not be immediately visible.
3. Contact Emergency Services
Report the accident, regardless of how minor it may seem.
- Follow the instructions of emergency personnel. Cooperate with the police, paramedics, and any other emergency responders. When they arrive, their guidance can help ensure your safety and proper documentation of the incident.
- Request a copy of the police report. After the police document the accident, make sure to obtain a copy of the report for your records. This report can be useful for insurance claims and any legal actions that may arise.
4. Gather Evidence
The more information you collect at the scene, the better your chances are of building a solid insurance or legal claim.
- Take pictures of the accident scene, your injuries, and any vehicle damage. Photographing these details can provide valuable evidence of the impact and damage caused.
- Document road conditions, weather, and traffic signs. Environmental factors like slick roads or missing signs can play a significant role in accident claims.
5. Exchange Information
Once you’ve assessed the scene and ensured your safety, it’s important to exchange information with the other parties involved.
- Share contact and insurance details with other parties. This is essential for future insurance claims and legal proceedings.
- Collect contact information from any witnesses. Witnesses can provide impartial accounts of the accident and help confirm your side of the story.
6. Notify Your Insurance Company
After you’ve left the scene, contact your insurance company to report the accident.
- Provide them with all necessary details including the police report number, contact information of the other driver, and any evidence you’ve gathered.
- Ask about the claims process and next steps. Confirm with your insurance company what documentation or information they will need from you, and ask for a clear outline of what to expect during the claims process, including timelines and any potential coverage for medical expenses or repairs.
7. Consult With a Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Motorcycle accidents can lead to complex legal claims, especially if you’ve been injured.
- A motorcycle accident attorney can help protect your rights. They can help ensure you get fair compensation for any injuries or damages sustained in the accident.
- An attorney can help you navigate the legal process, including dealing with insurance companies and representing you in court if needed.
What Not To Do After a Motorcycle Accident
While there are many steps you should take after an accident, there are also several things to avoid:
- Do not leave the scene of the accident. Leaving before authorities arrive can result in serious legal consequences, even if the accident seems minor.
- Do not admit fault or apologize. Even if you believe the accident was your fault, avoid admitting blame on the scene. Legal responsibility will be determined based on evidence.
- Do not delay medical attention. Even if you don’t feel injured right away, seek medical attention as soon as possible to rule out any hidden injuries.
The Wolf Pack® Is Here For You After a Motorcycle Accident
At Phillip S. Georges, PLLC, we understand how overwhelming the aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be. Knowing what to do after a motorcycle accident is important, but having the right legal team by your side can make all the difference. Our experienced motorcycle accident attorneys in Nashville, Milwaukee, and Norfolk are here to help you navigate the complex legal process, fight for your rights, and secure compensation. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let The Wolf Pack® be your advocate during this difficult time.