Motorcycle Accident Resources
What to Do If You are In a Motorcycle Accident
FIRST STEPS:
Safety is the number one priority, so seek medical attention immediately if you or anyone else has been injured. When possible, you should also follow these important steps to help you in your claims process later on.
1) If you don’t require immediate medical attention, remain at the scene. Call the police and ambulance (if necessary) and secure the scene by placing flares on the roadway or using vehicle hazard lights. If you have family or friends nearby, you may also want to call them and ask them to come to the scene to assist you.
2) Gather Information from other driver(s). Write down the names, addresses, and phone numbers for every individual involved in the accident. (Even if you only have a paper napkin to write on, it’s important to get this info). Also write down license plates, drivers license, insurance policy and registration numbers.
3) Identify Witnesses. Write down the names, phone numbers, and addresses of any witnesses at the scene. Note: If you have friends or family members present at the accident scene, they can assist you in gathering this crucial information.
4) Take pictures (or have a friend or family member take pictures). Use your cell phone camera or digital camera (if you have one) to take photos of the scene of the accident as soon as possible. Note the weather conditions, road conditions, traffic conditions and any other factors such as construction zones, speed limits, skid marks, etc. Evidence disappears shortly after an accident, so this documentation will help keep the facts straight.
5) Do not admit fault or liability. Any statement you make (to police or citizens) can be used against you later. So limit your remarks to the facts as you remember them.
In the case of an injury accident, reserve any statements for your motorcycle accident attorney.
6) Ask the investigating police officer(s) to provide you with his or her business card and the incident report number so that you can obtain a copy of the accident report.
7) If you are arrested and taken into custody, do not resist. An arrest does not necessarily mean you are liable. Once again, refrain from making any statements until you contact a motorcycle accident lawyer.
NEXT STEPS: When You Leave The Accident Scene
1) Once you’ve cooperated with the police and obtained all the information you need, you may leave the scene.
2) If you have any injuries, no matter how minor they may seem, proceed immediately to your doctor or a nearby hospital for treatment and keep records of that treatment. Some serious injuries do not present themselves immediately.
3) Notify your insurance company. As soon as possible, contact your insurance company and document everything, including the name and phone number of the representative you speak with. If you fail to alert your insurance company of the accident, they may deny any claims you file. Note: Don’t make any detailed statements and don’t discuss fault until you speak with your motorcycle attorney.
4) Contact your motorcycle attorney. We can guide you through the rest of the process, including representing you against the other driver and their insurance company. Contact us, and let us handle the rest!
Call us toll-free at 800-500-5735.
