What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident
Auto accidents are horrible enough—accidents without a car’s protective steel shell are significantly worse. Because even the most careful drivers are vulnerable to the whims of the road, it’s important for all motorcyclists to know exactly what to do when those whims turn against you—your actions in the aftermath of a motorcycle accident can influence the impact it has on your life.
Get help after a motorcycle accident
Call 911 immediately, and if the accident is minor or no one appears to be seriously injured, still call the police to record details of the accident and determine whether immediate legal action is required.
However, you should still seek medical attention even if you don’t think you’re hurt. Blunt-force injuries to the chest and abdomen are less common in motorcycle accidents than injuries to the arms and legs, but they are far more serious due to the potential for organ damage and internal bleeding. Even minor fractures in the extremities can cause major medical problems if not dealt with right away.
Remain calm if you get in an accident
This is perhaps one the most important—and difficult—steps following an accident, especially if you didn’t do anything wrong. Say only as much as you need to acquire your documentation, offering as little of your own information as possible. Do not argue with the other driver or passengers and do not assign blame.
Get informant about the motorcycle accident
Unless you are seriously injured, try to collect as much information about the accident as possible. Gather insurance and vehicle information from the other driver and contact information of any passengers or witnesses, and take photos with your phone camera, including street signs or nearby buildings.
Share only what’s necessary after an accident
Remain shrewd if contacted by an adjuster for the other driver’s insurance company. Adjusters are trained to get you to say the wrong thing so they can pay out the least amount of damages possible, so don’t even grant them an interview. You’ll have the opportunity to tell your own insurance adjuster your side of the story.
Call your insurance company
As soon as you can after the accident, inform your insurance company and provide all the documentation you gathered at the scene. As for details regarding injuries and vehicle damage, wait until you have seen a doctor and your motorcycle’s damage has been assessed by a qualified mechanic—“guesstimating” could result in lower compensation than what you deserve.
Once you’re offered an insurance claim settlement, there are a few things to consider before accepting, such as the long-term impact of your injuries and compensation beyond healthcare and repairs. You may be entitled to compensation for lost wages or alternative transportation costs. There are no do-overs in the world of insurance claims, so be sure you do it right.
Call a personal injury lawyer after a motorcycle accident
One of the best things you can do in the aftermath of a motorcycle accident is obtain legal counsel. Specialized accident attorneys are well versed in motorcycle regulations and personal injury laws, and they are your best shot at recovering the maximum monetary compensation possible.
As one such source of personal injury lawyers in San Diego, we at Salmu Law understand that the last thing you want to deal with after a harrowing accident is a bureaucratic nightmare of insurance adjusters and court appearances. So call us if you or a motorcyclist you know could use a helping hand.