Riding a motorcycle can be a beautiful experience. There is almost nothing that matches the experience and wonderment that it brings. Unfortunately, there is an inherent risk involved in this undertaking as well. It is no secret that motorcyclists are far more vulnerable to accidents, injuries, and even fatalities than a person in most other types of vehicles. Though accidents are not inevitable, the likelihood of them happening while on a motorcycle is quite high. In fact, motorcycle deaths happen 28 more times than deaths occurring from collisions between four-wheel vehicles. With this information in mind, the lawyers Jugo & Murphy in South Florida highly recommend that you know exactly what to do in the event that you are involved in a motorcycle accident. Learn more about the steps that you should take following a motorcycle accident below.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
When a motorcycle accident occurs, injuries frequently happen. This is true even if you are wearing the appropriate safety gear. It is essential that you seek immediate medical attention after an accident has occurred. If injuries are not apparent, it is still recommended that you seek medical attention. In many cases, your adrenaline is so high that you may not feel the effects of the accident until hours or days later. To ensure that you are safe as well as legally protected in the event that you choose to seek damages for your injuries, do not skip this step.
Exchange Contact Information
Gather the insurance information, license plate number, as well as contact information of the person(s) that you have been in an accident with. Take pictures of the vehicles involved and note their descriptions. Following this step will help to ensure that you are able to appropriately file an insurance claim.
Contact The Police
In most states, if there has been an injury or property damage above $500 you are required to contact the police. However, it is in your best interest to have a police report on file no matter how much property damage was caused. When the police arrive, ensure that you do not say anything to incriminate yourself. Never admit fault but be factually honest when asked questions by the police. Having a police report on file is imperative in building a potential personal injury case. Furthermore, take down the police officer’s information (name, badge number, etc.) for later reference. If you have not done so already, request medical attention when the officer arrives.
Collect Evidence And Identify Witnesses
Note the road conditions, weather, circumstances surrounding the accident, what potentially caused it, etc. Take pictures and videos of the scene if possible. Do not tamper with any of the evidence. Additionally, identify and interview witnesses of the accident. Take their information as well. This will be valuable information for your attorney to use when negotiating with insurance companies and determining fault.
Contact a Motorcycle Accident Attorney
You should contact a motorcycle accident attorney as soon as you can. Not only can they help if you choose to pursue damages for injuries, but they will also be an asset in the event that you are sued for causing the accident. Though you can certainly negotiate with insurance companies and file a personal injury suit on your own, you will likely be at a disadvantage since the insurance companies only work with experienced attorneys that know exactly what they are doing. Additionally, most personal injury attorneys do not charge for their services unless they recover damages on your behalf. Following these steps will help to protect you financially as well as legally in the event that you are involved in a motorcycle accident.
