Riding a motorcycle is an exhilarating experience, but it also comes with inherent risks. When you’re on a motorcycle, you have less protection than the average person on the road. Also, because your bike is smaller than most other vehicles, it can be easier to miss in traffic. Whether you’re a new rider or have been cruising for years, it’s important to understand what to do if you ever get involved in a motorcycle accident.
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Check for Injuries
The first priority should be to make sure everyone involved, including yourself, is okay. If anyone has been injured, get medical help as soon as possible. Sometimes a simple injury will go unnoticed for hours or even days after an accident, so even if you think you’re okay, you should get yourself checked out whenever you can. If you have any injuries that require medical attention, you’ll have to communicate with your insurance provider to document the extent of these injuries.
Examine the Scene
Once you’re out of immediate danger and have been checked for injuries, you should look at the scene to get as much information as possible about what happened. Look at the position of your motorcycle and the other vehicle, as well as any damage that was done. Ask yourself what factors might have contributed to the accident. Were there any road hazards nearby? Visibility issues? Even if you don’t think that it’s evident that the other driver was at fault, taking pictures of the scene may help you later.
Exchange Information
You need to exchange information with the other driver and any passengers. You want to make sure that you get the other driver’s name, address, phone number, insurance information, and license plate number. If there are any passengers, ask for their names and information as well. You should also check to see if there are any witnesses and take down their contact information. Another person may have seen something in the crash that you weren’t aware of, and it also helps to have someone back you up if there’s a dispute about what happened.
Get Legal Help
While you may feel like you’re in good shape after an accident, you never know what the other driver may try to do. It’s a good idea to contact a motorcycle injury attorney to get advice on your situation and see if you have a case. A legal professional can help you collect the evidence you need to prove your case and help you navigate the insurance process. Make sure you have all of your facts straight before going to court. If you can prove that the other person was at fault, your attorney can help you recover the money you need to pay for medical bills, lost wages, and more.
The most important thing to do after an accident is to stay calm. No matter the circumstance, don’t do anything rash. You don’t want to make the situation worse for yourself. Your goal should be to get back on your feet and put this situation behind you.