Did you know that even though only 3% are registered motorcycle vehicles in the United States, they make up 14% of all traffic fatalities?
When an accident happens quickly, it can leave you feeling dazed or confused. Symptoms of shock include a fast heartbeat, short breathing, feeling dizzy, and breaking out in cold sweats.
Feeling disoriented can hinder you from doing what you should do next.
Fairfax County motorcycle accident lawyers say it is very important to know what to do after a motorcycle crash because of the strong physical and mental reactions that can happen. Not only do these steps help protect your health and safety, they are also very important if you ever need to file a lawsuit or an insurance claim.
Here are the essential things you need to know after a motorcycle accident.
Secure the Scene
Once you have safely come to a stop after a motorcycle accident, secure the scene by moving to a safe location if possible. This step will prevent further accidents and guarantee your safety. If you can move, carefully relocate yourself to the side of the road or a nearby safe area away from traffic.
After securing the scene, turn off your motorcycle’s engine to prevent hazards such as fires or explosions. If you have flares or warning triangles in your emergency kit, place them around the accident site to alert other motorists of the danger and help prevent additional collisions.
Stay calm and assess the situation. If you’re uninjured, move your motorcycle to a secure location off the road to make the road safer for others; not moving the motorcycle might result in another accident. If there are any other individuals involved in the accident, ensure they’re also in a safe place.
Check for Injuries
According to www.oakgroveattorney.com, after a motorcycle accident, immediately assess yourself and others for any injuries. Your safety and the safety of others involved should be your top priority. Check yourself for any signs of injury, such as pain, bleeding, or difficulty moving. If you’re able, assist others in checking for injuries as well.
Look for any visible wounds, bruises, or areas of tenderness. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent, so it’s important to be thorough in your examination.
Document the accident.
After making sure everyone’s safety by checking for injuries, the next step is to document the details of the accident. When police or law enforcement come, you should cooperate with them. The report they write will be formal and can be used in court later on. But be careful what you say; don’t say you’re sorry or say things that could be used against you.
Take photos of the scene from different angles, including any skid marks, road conditions, and damage to vehicles or property. Be sure to capture any traffic signs or signals that may have played a role in the accident.
Note down the date, time, and location, and the weather conditions at the time. Obtain contact information from witnesses and the other parties involved, including their names, phone numbers, and insurance details. Write down your account of what happened while it’s still fresh in your memory.
Avoid admitting fault or speculating on the cause of the accident. All these details will be necessary when dealing with insurance claims or legal proceedings.
Seek medical assistance
Seek immediate medical assistance after a motorcycle accident to guarantee your health and well-being are properly addressed. Even if you believe your injuries are minor, some injuries, like internal bleeding or concussions, may not exhibit immediate symptoms but can have serious consequences if left untreated. By seeking medical help immediately, you can catch and address any potential issues.
When emergency services arrive at the scene, cooperate with them and follow their recommendations. Allow paramedics to assess your condition and provide necessary treatment. Remember not to decline medical assistance at the scene. Your safety and health should be the top priority after a motorcycle accident. Delaying or avoiding medical care can worsen your condition and your insurance company might try to use this to lowball your claim. Prioritize your well-being.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Consider informing your insurance company about the motorcycle accident. Contact your insurance provider to initiate the claims process and guarantee you receive the necessary support following the incident. Immediately reporting the accident can help speed up the claims process and prevent any potential complications that may arise from delays in notification.
When speaking with your insurance company, accurately describe the events leading up to the accident and provide any relevant documentation, such as a police report or medical records. Your insurance agent will guide you through the next steps and inform you of the coverage available under your policy. Ask any questions you may have about the claims process or coverage options to have a clear understanding of your rights and responsibilities.
Conclusion
Experiencing a motorcycle accident can be a traumatic and overwhelming event. However, knowing the essential steps to take immediately after the incident can impact your recovery and any subsequent legal or insurance processes.
Remember to hire a competent lawyer to help you deal with the legal complications of a motorcycle accident.