A motorcycle accident can be a traumatic event. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), a total of 5014 motorcyclists died in motorcycle crashes in 2019. Wearing a helmet protects you from the risk of dying from a crash by 37%, according to an NHTSA 2008 report. A rider without a helmet is three times likely to sustain traumatic head injuries in the event of a crash. A motorcycle fitted with an anti-braking system (ABS) has a 22% lower chance of fatal crashes compared to similar models without the locking system.
With such statistics, you need to observe due diligence and protect yourself when on the road. Below we explore the next steps you need to take after a motorcycle accident
Move to Safety
If you can, move to a safe place to avoid more accidents. There’s a likelihood of being run over by oncoming vehicles if you are pushed in the middle of a busy road. Your motorcycle is also most likely to cause another accident if left unattended. If alone and unable to move, use whatever signals you can to alert other motorists of your presence.
Check for Injuries and Call for Help
Unlike vehicle accidents, motorcycle accidents result in serious injuries due to the open nature of the carriage. If there are injuries, call for medical help and the police to take details of the accident. If the police arrive at the scene, collect the officer’s badge number and station for follow-up. If they do not arrive at the scene, find a nearby police station and file a report.
Take Photo Evidence Around the Motorcycle Accident
If you are in a position, take as many photos and videos as possible. Ensure they are from different angles and also capture the surroundings as possible. There are moments when faulty signage or faulty traffic lights lead to accidents. Photos and video evidence can help you get compensation from the relevant authorities
Gather Information
Gather as much information as you can from those involved in the motorcycle accident. Get the driver’s name, identity, address, vehicle number plate, and insurance details if a vehicle was involved. You also need to ascertain if the driver owns the car. If witnesses are willing, get their contacts and as much information about what they saw happen.
Call Your Insurance Company
Inform your insurer of the accident. Share the basics of what happened at the accident scene without elaborating or admitting fault. Provide a comprehensive report after seeing your doctor and after taking the motorcycle to the mechanic to ascertain the extent of damages. Remember your insurance may not have your best interests at heart and may try to unnecessarily lengthen the process.
Hire a Lawyer
You need to hire a lawyer if you or other parties involved in the accident were injured or if your motorcycle has suffered damages.
If the accident was a result of negligence such as damaged roadways, faulty traffic lights, and confusing signs, your lawyer could file a claim against the specific city.
At Bengal Law, our dedicated team of attorneys is committed to delivering effective legal solutions for your needs. If you’re seeking answers to your legal concerns, here are the findings you’ve been looking for.
How a Lawyer Can Help
A lawyer helps you navigate the insurance companies’ red tape and the complex court systems. They can help you negotiate better terms with insurance companies compared to pursuing compensation on your own. When offered a settlement, a lawyer is key because their experience with negotiation will be far better than an average person’s.
They can also help you recover monetary compensation for lost wages, medical expenses, motorcycle damage, and other related costs. These are costs you may not be privy to when negotiating on your own.
The above steps will help you navigate an accident scene and avoid any legal tussles in the future. If you are seeking compensation, you may consider the services of a lawyer instead of going it alone.
