Several aspects can cause motorcycle accident; but mostly, the accidents occur due to an automobile driver failing to see the motorcycle driver. Factors like debris on the road, road surfaces, weather and so on can also cause a motorcycle accident. Irrespective of the cause of the accident, there are critical steps that one needs to take immediately to ensure their safety, and that they get compensation for the damages.
After a motorcycle accident, it is normal to experience a rush of shock and emotions. However, regardless of the situation, you should know that each step you take after the accident may affect your compensation as well as any legal issues. It’s therefore essential to pull yourself together, so you can approach the situation logically, without talking or acting in a way that may implicate you. Here is a list of what you should do after a motorcycle accident:
Check for injuries
The first thing that you want to do is to check whether you have any injuries. Remember that after a crash, your body will be in a state of shock, and the adrenaline might mask the pain, so you might fail to know whether you are injured or not. So, inspect your body for any physical injury or internal pain. If you believe you’ve been hurt, do not move as you wait for the doctors to arrive. If you are okay, you can try finding out if there’s anyone that’s hurt in the accident.
Call your lawyer
The second thing to do after calling the paramedics should be to call a Newton County motorcycle accident attorney. These attorneys will guide you regarding the best course of legal action that you can take to ensure you get full compensation for the damages – especially if your accident was as a result of someone else’s negligence or intentional acts. Your lawyer will advise you on the kind of evidence that you should collect from the scene of the accident to help you build up the case, like:
- Noting down the other driver’s personal information as well as their insurance provider
- Taking photos of all motorcycles, vehicles, the road, the direction of the cars and your bike and so on
- Talking to witnesses around the scene and noting down their recollection of how things happened
- Recording witness contact details
- Recording the time, place and surroundings of the accident scene
Contact the police
You’ll also need to call the police so they can record the details of the accident scene and fill out an accident report. This is irrespective of the severity of the accident. Once the police arrive on the scene, be sure to request for their names and badge numbers, and a copy of the accident report, once they’re done.
Notify insurance company
After talking to your attorney, you want to call your insurer. Keep in mind that they have the right to turn down your accident claim if you fail to contact them within a specified period. So, it’s essential to call them as soon as you can following the accident, and don’t forget to record the notification.