Protect your rights with these tips
Motorcycle accidents are far too common. When there is a wreck involving a motorcycle, the motorcyclist is often severely injured even though they were not at fault in the wreck. Sadly, South Carolina often ranks in the top 10 nationwide in motorcycle fatalities. If you or a family member have been in a motorcycle accident, you may be wondering what to do next.
This guide will walk you through the steps you need to take at the accident scene and when you get home. Remember, it is important to stay calm and collected after an accident. If you are injured, seek medical attention immediately, then contact a skilled Greenville motorcycle accident lawyer to get started on the road to recovery.
1. Contact law enforcement
The first thing you should do after a motorcycle accident is call local law enforcement and report the accident. You must give them your name, contact information, insurance information, and a brief description of what happened. It is vital to get the police involved to have an official record of the accident.
2. Seek medical help
If you are injured in a motorcycle accident, it is crucial to seek medical attention immediately. Even if you do not think your injuries are severe, it is always better to be safe and have them checked out by a medical professional.
3. Exchange information with the other driver
Next, you should exchange information with the other driver. You must get their name, address, phone number, and insurance information. It is vital to get this information to contact their insurance company if you need to file a claim.
4. Gather photo & video evidence
It is also a good idea to take pictures of the damage to both vehicles. If there are any witnesses, get their contact information as well. This evidence will be helpful if you need to file an insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit.
5. Contact your insurance company
Once you have gathered all this information, you should contact your motorcycle insurance company and let them know you have been in an accident. They will likely ask for the information you gave the police and the other driver. Cooperating with your insurance company is essential so your claim can be processed quickly.
6. See a doctor
If you did not feel any injuries immediately after the accident, it is still essential to be evaluated by a medical professional. Often, motorcycle accident injuries do not manifest themselves until days or even weeks after the accident. Motorcycle accidents can often result in serious injuries such as internal bleeding, soft tissue injury, back problems, or even traumatic brain injury.
7. Document everything
You need to keep track of everything after a motorcycle accident since you will be presented with a lot of information. Document how you feel daily to look out for long-term or delayed injuries. If you speak with an insurance company, take down the adjuster’s name, contact information, and the claim number. Keep a list of any doctors, hospitals, chiropractors, or other medical providers you see. It is also essential to get a copy of the police report if you can. This will help you keep everything in one place as you move forward.
8. Get in touch with a Greenville motorcycle accident lawyer
If you were seriously injured in a motorcycle wreck, you should hire a motorcycle accident lawyer. The insurance companies are looking out for themselves, and you need someone to look after your best interests. A motorcycle accident lawyer can help you navigate the legal process and ensure you are fairly compensated for your injuries.
What not to do after a motorcycle accident
The only thing more important than knowing what to do after a motorcycle accident? Knowing what not to do. Protect your right to compensation and follow these tips:
- Don’t remove your safety gear until emergency personnel arrive.
- Don’t admit or allude to you being at fault. This includes statements like “I’m sorry” and “I didn’t see them.”
- Don’t give a recorded statement to the other driver, their insurance company, or anyone else besides your lawyer.
- Don’t take offers from the other driver’s insurance without first speaking to an attorney.
Hurt in a motorcycle crash? Call us.
This guide should give you a good idea of what to do after a motorcycle accident. Remember, it is important to stay calm and collected and contact a motorcycle accident lawyer if you are having trouble. If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, Smith Jordan can help. Contact us today to speak with an experienced Greenville motorcycle accident attorney and staff, who will help you understand your legal options. We will be happy to answer any questions that you may have.
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