In case an accident happens, you should know what to do in the immediate aftermath. Below are a few steps we recommend. Also check out our Motorcycle Accident Do's and Don'ts.
If you want learn more about making insurance claims or getting your bike fixed, please read our article on how to make insurance claims after a motorcycle accident. For more tips on making claims after an accident, check out our Top Ten Ways to Strengthen Your Motorcycle Accident Claim.
Immediately after a motorcycle accident, you should do the following:
- Check For Injuries. The first thing you should do, if you are able to move, is make sure everyone is all right, and if need be, receives medical attention. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately.
- Get out of the Roadway. If possible, move all vehicles off the road to a safe location. Use hazard lights, flares, or warning triangles to alert any oncoming traffic.
- Gather Information. Exchange information with other drivers involved. Get the name, address, phone number, insurance information, and license numbers for all drivers. Note plate numbers, car make and models, and description.
- Call the Cops. If anyone is injured, or is there is any substantial property damage (over $500), call the police! The police report can be vital in your efforts to recover for damage to your bike, clothing, or for injuries – many of which may not become evident for hours, or even days after an accident!
- Take Note of Surroundings. This may be difficult depending upon how seriously you may be hurt, but try to take notice of important information about the accident. This includes where, when, and how. Specifically, try to take note of the location of the accident, road conditions, speed limits, weather, lighting, the direction of travel any vehicles involved.
- Talk To Witnesses. Again, this depends on how badly you have been injured. If reasonably possible, try to interview all witnesses and record their comments either at the scene of the accident or as soon after as possible. Memories quickly fade; get as much information as you can immediately following the motorcycle crash.
- Don't Admit Fault! Many times, the exact cause of an accident is unclear immediately after the accident. People are sometimes tempted to apologize for getting into an accident, even when it's not their fault! Also, people sometimes "agree" with a version of events given by an another, even when it's not accurate. Accidents can be jarring, and you might not recall every detail until hours or even days later. Be careful what you say: statements at the accident scene can have serious consequences down the road. For more tips on how to strengthen your claim and protect your rights, click here.
Many of the above steps may be difficult depending upon how seriously you may be hurt, and remember, above all else, your first concern should always be safety and medical attention for you and anyone else involved in the accident.
If you have questions or concerns, contact a motorcycle accident attorney! Beware insurance companies asking for your signature, or offering you a check. This may preclude you from getting the full recovery to which you are entitled. Remember, that sweet old insurance adjuster has one priority — pay out as little as possible! For more information about motorcycle accident insurance, click here.
If you or a loved one have been involved in a motorcycle accident or have questions regarding motorcycle insurance, feel free to send us an email or call or toll free hotline. Our motorcycle lawyers are happy to talk to you. There is never a charge or obligation for our initial consultation.
