Knowing what to do after a motorcycle accident is important. The sad reality of operating a motorcycle is that other drivers simply fail to pay attention, and a motorcyclist needs to prepare for the worst. Preparation will help those involved think calmly and act quickly, which can help save lives.
Here is what to do if you or another rider is involved in a motorcycle accident.
Secure the Scene of the Accident
The very first thing to do when a motorcycle accident happens is to secure the scene. It is the responsibility of those involved, especially the wrongdoer, to ensure that the injured person is not further injured by oncoming traffic and other foreseeable hazards.
Call 911
After the imminent danger is past, call 911 as soon as possible. If you can coordinate securing the scene while someone else calls 911 that is even better. The sooner help arrives, the greater the chance of survival for the injured. The 911 operator is trained to gather important information from you. We cannot stress enough that if you are making a call to 911 that you must remain calm.
We have listened to many 911 calls where the caller is frantic, which is more harmful than helpful as it hinders the information the 911 operator needs to get. If you were involved and able to call 911 do so immediately.
Information Gathering
In any accident, it is important to gather and preserve all the evidence. It is even more so important to gather all the evidence possible in a motorcycle accident due to the increased chance of a catastrophic injury. If possible, get the other driver’s name, address, phone number, driver’s license number, and plate numbers.
If any eyewitnesses were present make sure to get their information and give it to the police officers when they arrive. If you were the rider, make sure to keep your bike. Keep it in the condition it was in at the time of the wreck in case the other driver refuses to accept responsibility. Take as many photos of the accident scene, the other vehicle, and your injuries, as possible.
Get Medical Treatment
It is always critical to receive necessary medical treatment after an accident. These types of accidents are serious, and nearly every rider suffers significant injuries when involved in a motorcycle wreck. You should seek medical treatment to begin your path to full recovery. How quickly should you get treatment? As soon as possible.
Insurance companies have somehow manufactured the concept that if an injured person doesn’t immediately seek treatment, they weren’t really hurt. This is patently false but is a significant strategy insurance companies and their attorneys use to harm your case. Getting immediate treatment and the required follow-up treatment stops insurance companies from making these bogus claims.
Seek Legal Help
Motorcyclists often find themselves frustrated with the outcome of their injury claim because they hired the wrong attorney. You need an attorney from the Genthe Law Firm who isn’t afraid to take a case to trial, and insurance companies know the lawyers that try cases.
We try cases, so, if you were injured in a motorcycle accident contact us today. Our attorneys are experienced in helping riders receive the financial compensation they deserve following a motorcycle accident.
