Riding a motorcycle can be an enjoyable and exciting adventure, yet it involves risk. The likelihood of a motorcyclist sustaining severe injuries in the case of an accident is high. It is, therefore, crucial to know what steps to take after a motorcycle accident to ensure your safety and protect your rights. Regardless of your experience as a rider, it is vital to be prepared for the unexpected. Here are the essential steps you should take after a motorcycle accident.
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Move To A Safe Location
After a motorcycle accident, you need to prioritize your safety. If you can move to a safe location, do so as quickly as possible. This can help to avoid further accidents and injuries.
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Seek Medical Attention
After getting yourself out of harm’s way, you should seek medical attention even if you do not feel like you have been injured. Some injuries could be internal and may not be immediately apparent. Have a skilled doctor examine you to determine the extent of the injuries.
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Keep Your Protective Gear On
Most riders usually try to take their gear, especially helmets, off after an accident. Removing one’s gear can aggravate injuries in areas you may have thought you were not hurt. Instead, wait for the paramedics to remove your gear.
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Call The Police
If the accident results in injury or property damage, it is essential to call the police. A police report will document the details of the accident and provide an impartial account of what happened. This report can be helpful in the event of a legal dispute or insurance claim.
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Collect Evidence
Collect evidence of the accident scene, including the damage to your motorcycle, if you can. You can take photos or videos and note the other vehicle’s license plate number. You can also note down the names and contacts of any witnesses present. In addition, preserving the video footage from your GoPro camera can aid in your insurance claim, as many motorcycle riders nowadays have a GoPro camera.
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Exchange Information
If the other driver is present, exchange contact and insurance information with them. Make sure to get their full name, phone number, insurance company name, and the make and model of their vehicle. You may need this information later in making a claim or resolving any legal issues arising from the accident.
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Notify Your Insurance Company
It is crucial to notify your insurance company as soon as possible about the accident. You need to inform your insurance company of the accident details to begin the claims process. Be sure to provide them with the police report, photos of the accident scene, and other relevant information. However, do not admit fault to your insurance agent, as this could jeopardize your claim later.
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Consult An Attorney
If the accident resulted in significant injury or damage, it might be wise to consult an attorney in Fresno. A personal injury attorney can help you in the legal process, safeguarding your rights and securing compensation for any injuries or motorcycle damage sustained in the accident.
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Document Your Injuries
If you were injured in the accident, it is essential to document your injuries. Keep a record of any medical appointments, treatments, and medications. Records of any expenses related to your injury, such as transportation costs to and from medical appointments, are also worth keeping. These can come in handy when filing a legal claim to receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages.
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Follow Your Doctor’s Orders
Motorcycle accidents can result in severe injuries, and following your doctor’s instructions for any treatments or medications is imperative for a smooth recovery.
Exercise Caution When Talking To The Other Driver’s Insurance Company
The other driver’s insurance company may contact you after the accident. They may ask you to provide a statement only to use what you say against you in denying your claim. Instead, refer them to your own insurance company or attorney.
Contact A Qualified Personal Injury Attorney In California Today
If you have incurred injuries from a motorcycle accident in California, look no further than The Nunes Law. Contact a qualified and reliable personal injury attorney in Fresno, California, by calling (559) 702-5124, and we can assist you in securing the appropriate compensation.