What should I do after a motorcycle accident?
You’ve just been involved in a motorcycle accident, and you’re wondering what to do next. You’re probably feeling scared and overwhelmed. However, your actions immediately following the accident may affect your future dramatically, so you need to make the right decisions. Follow these steps to cover all of your bases.
1. Call for help.
If people are injured and/or vehicles are damaged, call 911 for assistance. Anyone who is injured will receive the medical attention they need, and the police will come to the scene to make a report of the accident.
2. Remain at the scene.
No matter who caused the accident, you should remain at the scene until the police have arrived and made their report. Otherwise, you could receive a leaving the scene of the accident ticket. Also not having a police report will hurt your injury claim.
3. Take pictures.
If possible, take pictures of the accident scene before vehicles are moved. You will be able to use these pictures as evidence if you need to file a lawsuit at a later date. You cannot take too many pictures
4. Exchange important information.
If you are able to do so, exchange important information with all of the other people who were involved in the accident. Be sure to ask for names, phone numbers and insurance information.
If there are witnesses to the accident, collect their contact information as well.
5. Get an estimate of the damage to your vehicle.
If your motorcycle was damaged, the responsible insurance company will prepare an estimate of the cost of repairs or replacement. Obtain a copy of this estimate and review it. If you don’t agree with the estimate, obtain a second opinion from another professional.
6. Obtain copies of your medical records.
Keep records of all of your diagnoses and medical treatments following the accident, as well as the cost of each service you receive. You should also keep track of how much work you miss so that you can calculate lost wages.
7. Keep your damaged helmet, gear and clothes.
These items may be useful if a lawsuit is necessary. You should also take good photos of the damaged items.
8. Contact an attorney.
Insurance companies want to settle your claim with as little expense as possible. In many cases, the initial settlement offer you receive won’t be enough to repair your motorcycle and pay your medical bills, let alone compensate you for the pain and suffering you experienced during and after the accident. If you were seriously injured in the accident you or a family member should contact an experienced motorcycle attorney quickly (avoid lawyers who call you-or have someone call you on their behalf- offering to represent you-this is improper for the attorney).
9. Do not give a recorded statement to the insurance company.
Nothing good can come of this.
10. Go to the doctor if you are injured.
Continue treating as long as you need to be. Don’t quit treatment before the doctor releases you.
If you want more information about what you should do after a motorcycle accident and learn more about common missteps (and how to avoid them) order your copy my free book before you speak with another lawyer or anyone from the other drivers insurance company.
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Clearly, situations where a victim would benefit from legal representation for a motorcycle accident claim far outnumber situations in which having an attorney is unnecessary. Fortunately, we are here to provide you with the assistance you need after a crash. When you are ready to take the next steps, contact me at 417 883-5886 or Toll Free a 1800 345-0535 for a free, no-obligation consultation.