After a motorcycle crash, you need to know what to do in order to protect yourself, medically and legally.
Call 9-1-1
Call 911 as soon as you can to report the accident and request medical assistance. Emergency responders will arrive to treat anyone involved and transport you to the hospital if necessary. A police officer will also create an accident report detailing the collision, noting how they believe the crash occurred and which parties they believe to be at fault. Ultimately, this report can be critical when it comes time to file an accident claim. Be sure to ask the officer how you can obtain a copy of the report.
Photograph the Accident
If you are not transported to the hospital, remain at the scene and take photographs of:
- The scene as a whole;
- The positions of all vehicles involved and their damage;
- Any property damage caused in the surrounding area;
- Any debris or markings on the road, such as skid marks;
- The road conditions and any hazards, such as potholes or uneven lanes
- Street signs and traffic signals
- Your injuries
Speak to Witnesses
If anyone witnessed the accident, ask for their name and contact information. Check if they are willing to make a recorded statement, which you can take on your phone, or ask them to write down their version of the events while it is fresh in their minds.
Seek Medical Treatment
Go visit a doctor as soon as possible, even if you don’t believe you are injured. Some severe injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, can have delayed symptoms that can present themselves hours or even days later. Seeking treatment immediately is not only the best choice for your health but will provide documentation to prove your injuries and to what extent. If you wait to seek medical help, the delay can allow an insurance company to argue that your injuries were not a result of the motorcycle accident or not as severe as you claim.
Speak To a West Palm Beach Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Obtaining the compensation you deserve from an insurance company can be difficult on your own. A personal injury protection (PIP) attorney can help you preserve evidence that may be vital to your claim and negotiate a fair settlement or represent you in court.