Motorcycle accidents can be very serious, often resulting in severe injuries or death. In the United States, there are around 88,000 motorcycle accidents each year, and they account for nearly 15% of all traffic fatalities. While some accidents are unavoidable, many are caused by the negligence or recklessness of drivers on the road. If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, it is important to take steps to protect your legal rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Here are seven steps to take after suffering an accident:
1. Get Out Of Danger
The first thing you need to do is get yourself and others out of danger. If you are able to move, try to move the motorcycle to the side of the road. However, sometimes it is not safe to move the bike, and you may need to wait for help to arrive. Some Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Orange County include low visibility, head-on collisions, and distracted driving. When a head-on collision occurs, for example, it can be extremely dangerous to attempt to move the motorcycle. This is because the weight and momentum of the bike can cause serious secondary injuries to the rider. If you are injured, do not try to move. Wait for emergency personnel to arrive. If you are able to move and there is no one else around, try to call for help.
2. Seek Medical Attention
It is important to seek medical attention right away, even if you do not think that you are injured. Many injuries, such as neck and back injuries, can take time to manifest themselves. You may also have internal injuries that require treatment. A doctor will be able to assess your injuries and provide appropriate treatment.
In addition, if someone else is hurt in the accident, try to get them medical attention as well. If they are unconscious, do not move them. Wait for emergency personnel to arrive. Sometimes, people who are not injured in an accident become hysterical or confused. Do not leave them alone.
3. Notify the Police
The police should come on the scene immediately as they are often required by law to investigate any motorcycle crash that causes injury or property damage. They will take down all the pertinent information, including the names of those involved, insurance information, and any other eyewitnesses. This is also an opportunity to get a copy of the police report, which can be helpful if you decide to pursue a claim against the other driver. A police report can also help your lawyer determine whether you have a valid case.
4. Call Your Lawyer
Motorcyclists are one of the most vulnerable groups on the road. Because they are not as visible as cars and trucks, and because they often travel at high speeds, motorcyclists are more likely to be in an accident. When that happens, it is crucial to have a lawyer who knows the law and can help you get the compensation you deserve. A lawyer can help you file a claim, deal with the insurance company, and represent you in court. If you have been in an accident, call your lawyer immediately.
5. Gather Evidence
In any accident case, it is important to gather evidence as soon as possible. This includes photos of the scene, witness statements, and medical records. Use a camera or your phone to shoot footage of the situation and your injuries if you are able. Keeping a notebook of everything that happened after the accident is a good idea. If you decide to submit a claim against the insurance provider, this will be crucial. Your lawyer will be able to help you with this process. He/she will also be able to advise you on whether you should pursue a case in court.
6. Decide Whether to Claim an Insurance Claim
After an accident, you will likely have to make a decision about whether to file a claim against the other driver’s insurance company. This can be a difficult decision, especially if you are not sure who is at fault. There are a few things to consider when making your decision.
- How severe are your injuries? If you have suffered significant injuries, it is likely that you will need to file a claim in order to cover your medical expenses.
- Who is at fault? If the other driver is clearly responsible for the accident, it is likely that you will have a successful claim.
- What are the odds of winning? Not all cases are successful. If the other driver has a good lawyer, your odds of winning may be low.
Whatever the situation is, your lawyer should be able to help you make the decision that is best for you.
7. Rest and Take Time Off
After a motorcycle accident, it is important to take some time off to rest and recover. This may mean taking a few weeks or even months off work. Your employer should be understanding and allow you to take the time you need. You should also focus on your healing, both physically and emotionally. Seek out counseling if needed and take the time to relax and de-stress. Yoga or meditation can be helpful in this situation. An accident can be a traumatic experience, so it is important to give yourself time to heal.
Motorcycle accidents can be extremely traumatic experiences, both physically and emotionally. If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, it is important to remember to take care of yourself first and foremost. This means getting yourself and others out of danger, seeking medical attention, notifying the police, and contacting your lawyer. You may also want to gather evidence at the scene of the accident and decide whether or not to make a claim on your insurance policy. Finally, it is important to rest and take some time off after an accident. These steps will help you get through this difficult time as smoothly as possible. Hopefully, following this advice will help you recover both physically and emotionally from your motorcycle accident.
