According to NHTSA, motorcyclists account for only 5% of all drivers in the United States. However, according to research, motorcyclist fatalities occurred 27 times more often than passenger vehicle occupant deaths in 2017. As a result, understanding what you should do if you are involved in a motorcycle accident is critical, whether you’re the rider, the automobile driver, or just an innocent bystander.
Even the most careful drivers may find themselves in unavoidable incidents. Your adrenaline will pump, and you’ll be in shock following an accident. If you ever have to deal with a motorcycle accident, these are the steps you should take.
Accidents can happen at any time and in any place. According to the NHTSA, approximately 52 percent of all accidents occur within 5 km of one’s home, while 69% of all accidents happen within 10 km of one’s house. Therefore, it is always wiser to drive defensively to avoid being caught off guard too much.
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Go Safety
After a motorcycle accident, your priority should always be your safety. This means you should get to a safe location away from traffic if possible. If you cannot move your bike, try to get to the side of the road and put your hazard lights on. If you are able, assess your injuries and those of any passengers. If anyone is seriously injured, call 911 immediately.
Call The Police
If you can, the next step is to call the police so that they can come to the scene of the accident and file an official report. This report will be critical later on when you file an insurance claim. The police will also be able to assist with traffic control and make sure that everyone involved is safe.
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Exchange Information
Once the police have arrived, you will need to exchange information with the other driver. This includes getting their name, contact information, and insurance information. However, it is essential to get this information even if the other driver was at fault for the accident. Since such information will help you to file a claim, besides this, consult motorcycle accident lawyers today for in-depth information regarding your rights since such professionals are the ideal person to talk to understand your rights.
Collect Evidence
If you can, take photos of the scene of the accident, including any damage to your bike or injuries. This documentation can be beneficial later on when you are making an insurance claim. It can also be used as evidence if the case goes to court.
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Seek Medical Attention
It is vital to seek medical attention even if you do not think you are injured. This is because some injuries, such as concussions, might not present themselves until hours or even days after the accident. By seeking medical attention immediately, you will ensure that you get the treatment you need and have documentation of your injuries.
Call An Attorney
You might need legal assistance to file an insurance claim or compensation for your injuries. An attorney can also help to negotiate with the other driver’s insurance company on your behalf. If you face legal action from the other driver, an attorney can also help defend you in court.
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Stay Patience
It is also vital to avoid admitting fault for the accident. Even if you think you might be at fault, it is best to wait until you have spoken to an attorney or insurance company before making any statements. Anything you say could be used against you later on and might cost you money.
Get Your Bike Repaired
If your bike was damaged in an accident, getting it repaired as soon as possible is essential. This is because further damage can occur if the motorcycle is not properly taken care of. Additionally, many insurance companies will require that you get your bike repaired before they will pay out a claim.
File Your Insurance Claim
After taking care of everything else, the next step is filing your insurance claim. This can be a complicated process, so it is vital to ensure you include all the necessary documentation. This includes things like photos, medical records, and police reports. An attorney can help you ensure that your claim is filed correctly and that you get the compensation you deserve.
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Keep track Of Your Expenses
Finally, it is vital to keep track of all the expenses incurred due to the accident. This includes things like medical bills, property damage, and lost wages. If you successfully take your insurance claim or legal action, you might be entitled to reimbursement for these expenses.
Conclusion
If you or someone you know has been involved in a motorcycle accident, it is essential to know what to do to protect your rights. These ten steps will help you navigate the accident’s aftermath and get the compensation you deserve. However, it is always best to consult an experienced attorney who can help you through every process step.
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