Motorcycle accidents occur every day in the U.S. and often result in serious injuries. Because motorcycles lack the safety features that standard vehicles have, riders are more likely to suffer head injuries and other severe injuries. If you’ve been hurt in a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation. However, the steps you take immediately after the accident can have a big impact on how much compensation you receive. Here are the steps to take following a motorcycle accident.
Obtain Information from the Other Driver
The first thing you need to do after a motorcycle accident is to ask the other driver for his or her full name, contact information and insurance information. This way, if your lawyer needs to contact this person in the future, he or she can do easily.
Call the Police
A collision with a motorcycle usually results in property damage or injury, so it’s important to contact the police immediately. They will come to the scene of the accident and make a police report. This will report will include important information about the accident, such when and where it occurred, names of everyone involved, weather and roadway conditions and statements from parties and witnesses. Remember to get a copy of this police report for your records.
Get Medical Attention
As mentioned above, motorcycle accidents usually result in injuries. That’s why it’s crucial for you to seek medical care as soon as possible. A doctor will evaluate your injuries and recommend the appropriate treatment. Prompt medical care isn’t just vital for your health and well-being. It’s also important for proving your injuries. If you wait too long to see a doctor, the insurance company may try to argue that you aren’t as injured as you claim to be.
Write Down the Details of the Accident in a Journal
As soon as you are able, write down everything you remember about the accident in a journal. For example, you might want to include how the weather conditions were before the accident occurred and if you observed the other driver acting peculiar beforehand. The more information you remember about your case, the easier it will be to prove your damages in court.
Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer
Motorcycle accidents claims can involve a lot of complexities, so you don’t want to handle yours on your own. It’s important to work with a personal injury lawyer who specializes in motorcycle accident cases. He or she can help you gather evidence, identify witnesses, protect your legal rights and negotiate with the insurance company. With an experienced lawyer on your side, you will be more likely to receive fair compensation for your injuries.
If you were hurt in a motorcycle accident, contact a personal injury lawyer, like a motorcycle accident lawyer in Ames, IA today.
Thank you to JOHNSTON | MARTINEAU PLLP for their insight into motorcycle accidents.
