The Short Answer:
After a motorcycle accident, you should immediately get out of traffic if it’s safe, call 911, and seek medical attention before doing anything else. The page explains the importance of keeping your protective gear on until you are evaluated, filing a police report, and carefully documenting the scene with photos and witness information. It also stresses reporting the accident to your insurance company without speculating or admitting fault and speaking with a motorcycle accident lawyer before accepting any settlement to protect your legal rights and potential compensation.
Key Takeaways
- Do not move your motorcycle unless it’s necessary to prevent further danger.
- Leave your helmet and protective gear on until medical professionals tell you otherwise.
- Always request a police report, even for crashes that seem minor.
- Take photos and gather witness contact information before leaving the scene if you can safely do so.
- Stick to basic facts when speaking with insurance adjusters and avoid discussing fault.
- Consult a motorcycle accident attorney early before accepting a settlement offer.
1. Move Out of the Road, Don’t Move the Bike
After a motorcycle accident, your first priority should be to get yourself to a safe location, away from the road and any traffic, if you are able. Avoid moving your motorcycle, as this could disturb the scene and complicate potential insurance claims or legal actions.
Leaving the bike helps preserve important evidence and prevents further injury to yourself, as moving heavy machinery can worsen any injuries you’ve sustained.
2. Keep Protective Gear ON
No matter how tempting it may be to remove your helmet or other protective gear after an accident, it’s often safer to leave everything on until medical professionals arrive. Removing protective equipment too soon could exacerbate hidden injuries, such as neck or spine trauma.
Wait until you’ve been assessed by paramedics before taking off any gear.
3. Call Emergency Services
One of the first things to do after getting to a safe spot is to call 911. Even if injuries seem minor, it’s essential to request emergency medical treatment. Some injuries, such as internal bleeding or head trauma, may not be immediately obvious.
If you weren’t treated at the scene, make sure to see a doctor in the following days to document any injuries.
4. File a Police Report
It’s important to file a police report after a motorcycle accident. The report will serve as an official record of the crash, which can be useful for your insurance claim or lawsuit. When talking to the police, avoid admitting fault or placing blame. Stick to the facts.
Make sure to get a copy of the police report for your own records and share it with your attorney if needed.
5. Collect Evidence From the Scene
After ensuring your safety and contacting emergency services, gather as much evidence from the scene as possible. Use your phone to take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Collect contact and insurance information from the other driver(s), as well as contact details for any witnesses.
In the days and weeks following the accident, keep a detailed record of all medical bills, repair costs, and any other related expenses.
6. Report the Accident to Your Insurance
Even if the accident seems minor, it’s important to report the crash to your insurance company as soon as possible. Most policies require timely reporting, and waiting too long could jeopardize your ability to file a claim. Stick to the facts when reporting the accident and avoid speculating about fault or injuries.
Let your attorney handle any negotiations or disputes with the insurance company.
7. Discuss Your Case With an Attorney
Motorcycle accidents can involve complex legal and insurance issues, especially when it comes to proving fault or negotiating a fair settlement. Speaking with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney can help you understand your options and protect your rights.
An attorney can handle communication with insurance companies, gather additional evidence, and fight to ensure you receive the compensation you may deserve.
When To Contact an Attorney After a Motorcycle Accident
It’s a good idea to contact a lawyer as soon as possible after a motorcycle accident, particularly if you’ve suffered significant injuries or if liability is unclear. At The McMahan Law Firm, we provide valuable guidance on what to do after a motorcycle accident and ensure that you’re taking the right steps to strengthen your case from the very beginning.
If you’re seeking legal support, don’t hesitate to contact The McMahan Law Firm today for a FREE consultation. We can help protect your rights and guide you to the compensation you may deserve.
