In our motorcycle accident attorney's experience, we've found that many people don't know what to do after an accident. With that in mind, let us help you with some quick tips to maximize your chances for a motorcycle accident settlement.
- Dial 911
- Safely get out of the way of traffic (if possible)
- Exchange contact information with all the drivers involved in the motorcycle accident
- Collect contact information of any witnesses
- Take pictures of the motorcycle accident scene
- Write down everything you can remember about the accident
- Create a motorcycle accident diagram
- Do not admit fault
- Make an appointment with your doctor
1. Dial 911
The first thing you should do is call 911. This will alert the police (who will take an official report) that there was a motorcycle accident, and notify emergency crews to come to the scene and treat any injured persons. Since many motorcycle crashes leave motorcyclists seriously injured, there is a slight chance that you could suffer catastrophic injuries from your accident.
2. Safely get out of the way of traffic
Of course if anyone sustained a serious injury or is unconscious, DO NOT MOVE THEM UNLESS ABSOLUTELY NECESSARY. Sudden movements can make serious injuries, such as brain injuries and spinal cord injuries, much worse.
3. Exchange contact information with all the drivers involved in the motorcycle accident
You should exchange numbers and information with the other motorists involved in the motorcycle accident. Get names, numbers, addresses, license plate numbers, vehicle make/model and insurance information.
4. Collect contact information of any witnesses
If there were any witnesses to the accident and collect their information as well.
5. Take pictures of the motorcycle accident scene
If you have a camera, take as many pictures of the motorcycle accident as possible. Many people have cameras on their cell phones these days, so snap a few pictures on your phone if you don't have a camera. More pictures are always better.
6. Write down everything you can remember about the accident
How it happened, any bad road conditions, weather, date and time of the motorcycle crash will all help you later on when dealing with the insurance companies.
7. Create a motorcycle accident diagram
This guide might help:
8. Do not admit fault
When the police arrive, be honest with them. Tell them how the motorcycle accident occurred but never admit fault. Let them make that decision! Remember, anything you say can be used against you in a motorcycle accident claim.
9. Make an appointment with your doctor
You should seek medical treatment immediately after your motorcycle accident. Many injuries can be left undetected to the untrained eye, but trained medical professionals may find something you did not. Be safe, not sorry.
10. Before you speak to your insurance company, consult with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney
We recommend that you seek the advice of an experienced motorcycle accident attorney, who can help you by dealing with insurance companies and the legalities of your case. Call our San Diego law firm at 1-858-551-2090 for a FREE Consultation -- in English or Spanish -- with a motorcycle accident lawyer. You may also click here to submit you case for a FREE Online Review.
Click Here for a Printable Version of the Motorcycle Accident Checklist