In the chaos of a motorcycle accident, you may be unsure how to respond appropriately. In such high-stress situations, understanding the proper actions to take is vital. As an injured rider, being informed about the important do’s and don'ts at a motorcycle crash scene makes a difference in ensuring safety, preserving evidence, and facilitating the appropriate handling of the situation.
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What to Do After a Motorcycle Crash
The actions you take immediately following a motorcycle crash significantly impact your health, safety, and any potential legal case. Consider the following crucial steps:
- Remain calm and request emergency assistance. Call 911 and ask for medical personnel and law enforcement to come to the scene. Even if your injuries seem minor at first, many—such as internal bleeding or head trauma—may not be immediately apparent. It’s also essential to file a police report and obtain a copy.
- Move to a safe location. If possible, shift you and your bike to the side of the road or a nearby sidewalk to prevent further accidents or injuries.
- Gather information. Exchange contact and insurance information with the other parties involved in the accident. This includes the names, addresses, phone numbers, driver's license numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance details of all drivers involved. If there are any witnesses, get their contact information as well.
- Document the accident scene. Use your phone to take photos or videos of the scene, including the positions of the vehicles involved, any visible injuries, damage to your bike, and debris or skid marks on the road.
- Contact a motorcycle accident lawyer. Our motorcycle accident lawyers at Hupy and Abraham get to work immediately to help protect your legal rights and potential compensation.
What Not to Do After a Motorcycle Crash
While it's essential to take appropriate actions following a motorcycle accident, there are also certain things to avoid to protect your rights and potential legal case, such as:
- Don’t admit fault. Refrain from apologizing or admitting fault at the accident scene. Any statements you make can be used against you later in legal proceedings.
- Don’t leave the scene. Unless you require immediate medical attention, stay onsite until the necessary information is exchanged and the authorities are notified (if needed).
- Don’t provide a recorded statement. Insurance company adjusters may solicit a recorded statement from you shortly after the accident. It's best to politely refuse to do so until you consult your lawyer.
- Don’t accept a quick settlement. Insurers often extend a fast settlement offer in an attempt to resolve the case quickly and minimize their financial liability.
- Don’t discuss the accident on social media. Avoid posting details about the accident or your injuries on any social media channels. Anything you say online can potentially be used against you in a legal case.
How a Lawyer With Hupy and Abraham Helps You Prevent Mistakes
An experienced motorcycle lawyer at our firm provides valuable assistance to a motorcycle accident claim. Here are just a few ways we help you build a solid case:
- Preserving evidence. We’ll take prompt action to preserve critical evidence, such as surveillance footage, witness statements, and police reports, which can be crucial for reinforcing your claim.
- Calculating damages. It’s our responsibility to assess the full extent of your economic and non-economic damages to ensure you receive fair compensation.
- Handling insurance companies. Lawyers are well-versed in dealing with carriers and will negotiate claims on your behalf, protecting you from making statements or agreeing to settlements that may undervalue your case.
- Representing you in court. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, our experienced motorcycle accident lawyers are prepared to represent you in front of a judge or jury and fight for the compensation you deserve.
- Providing legal guidance. It’s our role to help you navigate the process with knowledge and solutions, ensuring you understand your rights and can make informed decisions that protect your best interests.
Recovering Motorcycle Accident Compensation
When you've been involved in a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to recover various damages, such as:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Loss of future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
By taking the appropriate actions at the accident scene, avoiding common mistakes, and seeking the guidance of an experienced personal injury attorney, you can protect your rights and increase your chances of recovering the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.
Contact Our Skilled Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Today
If you or a loved one was injured in a bike crash, contact our dedicated motorcycle accident lawyers at Hupy and Abraham. We offer a complimentary, no-obligation consultation to review your case.
To request a confidential appointment, please fill out our convenient contact form by clicking the button above. For immediate assistance, call us at 800-800-5678.