Motorcycle Accident Law Firm

In the US, more than 5,000 people died in motorcycle-related accidents in 2019. Whether you are involved in a minor fender bender or a serious collision, experiencing a motorcycle accident is scary and traumatic.

After being involved in a bike crash, you may be disoriented and too shook up to think straight. However, following the right course of action is gravely important. So, what are the best measures to take after a motorcycle crash? Here are the top five steps to follow after a motorcycle accident.

1. Check for Injuries

Immediately after a crash, contact emergency responders and get to safety. Due to a lack of protection and shielding, bikers are often harmed in motorcycle accidents. Some of the common injuries include back, neck, and head injuries. If you suspect damage to the spine, back, or neck area, avoid moving until paramedics arrive. Also, others involved in the crash may require medical attention, so it’s important to ensure that help is on the way. 

Move to the side of the road and away from traffic. However, it’s important not to leave the location of the accident. Doing so before providing your information qualifies as a hit-and-run accident–even if you were not at fault. Once emergency services arrive, request to be examined at the scene. If you must go to the hospital, an ambulance can take you. 

Regardless of how minor or serious your condition appears to be, do see a doctor following the crash. Only a medical professional can check for hidden injuries, like internal bleeding or head trauma. Additionally, a doctor’s evaluation will strengthen your personal injury case, increasing the compensation. Delaying or neglecting treatment indicates to insurance companies that you were not badly harmed in the motorcycle accident, and they will reject your claim.

 2. Collect Contact Information

After everyone is out of danger, it’s essential to collect contact information from all parties involved. Compile a list of names, addresses, insurance policies, phone numbers, and license numbers.

Also, take photos and videos of the accident scene from all angles. This includes personal property that was damaged, injuries sustained, the roadways, and other relevant details.

If any witnesses saw the motorcycle accident occur, get their names and phone numbers, as well. Eye-witness testimonies are another strong piece of evidence.

3. Call the Police

After everyone is safe and before you remove your protective gear, call 911 and report the accident. Request both police presence and paramedics.

If your bike has sustained damage or you’ve sustained injuries, ensure to file a police report. The police report will prove vital when recovering damages for your physical injuries, as well as personal property that was either damaged or destroyed.

Contacting the police and having them at the accident scene is crucial to help build a strong and winning case. The police will take details about the accident and keep this record for future reference.

If an officer arrives at the scene, make sure to take down their name and badge number. This is crucial to help your motorcycle accident attorney to follow up and collect details for your claim.

4. Take Note of Your Surrounding

If possible, document the scene of the accident. This will include taking note of the accident location, vehicles involved, and direction of travel. Also, include the date and time of the crash, weather, speed limit, and road conditions. Take pictures of the scene to show any skid marks or even property damage suffered. 

Collect as much information as possible to increase the chances of winning your claim. All of these details will help your motorcycle accident lawyer build a sound case and hopefully speed up the settlement process.

 5. Contact Your Insurance Company and Lawyer

Your insurance agent will need all the relevant crash details. However, it’s also important that you have a reputable motorcycle crash attorney to ensure you don’t make any errors during this process. At times insurance companies may take advantage of you to deny or delay compensation.

With your attorney’s guidance, alert your insurance company about the accident and provide details. Waiting too long before contacting your insurance could be grounds for compensation denial. Additionally, sharing the recount of the accident early on will be more accurate, as it’s still fresh in your mind. 

Also, do not speak to the other party’s insurance. Any communication with the defendant’s legal team or insurers should only be done with your motorcycle accident lawyer. Speaking with the opposing party can significantly compromise your case. They can be misleading and convince victims to sign over their rights or deceive them into settling for an unfair offer.

Choose the Best Motorcycle Accident Law Firm 

Being involved in a motorcycle accident is traumatizing and confusing. However, with the right knowledge and representation, you can file a successful claim. 

If you are in need of a motorcycle accident law firm in Southern California, contact The Law Offices of Daniel Kim today. We are a top-rated personal injury law firm, committed to ensuring our clients get the justice and compensation they deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation and to learn more about our services.