What to Do After You’ve Had a Motorcycle Accident

Riding a motorcycle can be a liberating experience and a great way to travel. But it’s also a dangerous way to get around.

In 2017, 4,990 people were killed on motorcycles. While it’s less than in 2016, that number is still too high. But not every motorcycle accident ends in tragedy. Other accidents can lead to injury, motorcycle write-off, or long-term problems.

Do you know what to do after a motorcycle accident? Read on to learn more.

1. Stay Calm and Seek Medical Help

If you had a motorcycle accident today, your first job is to stay calm. You need to look after your health before you do anything else.

Various injuries are common following motorcycle crashes. These can include injuries to the brain or spinal cord. Or they can include burns and road rash.

If you’re able, call 911. Check anyone else who was involved to see how they are.

Whatever injuries you end up with, get them documented by medical staff. Take photographs of broken limbs or bruises. Injuries to the legs and feet represent 30 percent of non-fatal injuries.

Ideally, you want documentation of the injuries specifically caused by the accident.

Once you’ve done that, focus on getting better.

2. Photograph the Site of the Motorcycle Accident

If you’re able to, take photos of the site. Make sure the scene is safe, so you don’t risk your own safety or cause more problems first. A cell phone camera will be adequate for recording the scene.

Ask someone else to take photos if you’re too badly injured. A passerby or witness can also take photos or videos of the scene.

Get photos of the motorcycle, the wider environment, and any other vehicles that were involved. These photos can be helpful during an insurance claim, or even a court case.

3. Secure the Scene

If you’re able to, move your motorcycle out of the road. You don’t want to cause an obstruction and risk other drivers becoming involved.

Don’t worry if that’s not possible. If you can’t move your bike, see if you can set up a warning for oncoming traffic.

Drivers may be able to put on their hazard lights or may carry additional lights in their car.

4. Gather Information

You should also gather information yourself. Get the contact details of any witnesses.

Note down license plate numbers, along with the make and model, of any vehicles that were involved. Get the details of the other drivers.

Write down the officer’s name and badge number, and the police report number.

Make sure you have the contact details for the insurance companies of anyone that was involved.

5. Notify Your Insurance Company

Call your insurance agent once you’re fit enough to do so and give them the details. Don’t give any medical information until you’ve had a doctor’s report. Some injuries or pain can surface days later.

Likewise, wait until you have a mechanic’s report about your motorcycle. If you give estimates too soon, it can reduce how much compensation you might get.

Hire a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer If Necessary

The other party might blame you for the accident when you’re innocent. Or your insurance agent might deny your claim. At worst, you might have received severe injuries that lead to extensive medical bills.

In these scenarios, contact a motorcycle accident lawyer for their expert help. Why not contact us and take advantage of our expertise?