All posts tagged motorcycle crash

What to Do When Involved In a Motorcycle Accident

motorcycle accident

Motorcycles don’t have very many safety features, and that makes collisions extremely dangerous for riders. You could find yourself struggling with a life-altering injury in the blink of an eye, and you need to be proactive if you want to move on with your life as quickly as possible. Here is a look at some steps that every rider needs to take following a motorcycle accident.

Seek out Treatment Immediately

Motorcycles accidents often result in a wide variety of serious injuries including fractures, torn ligaments, spinal injuries, and head trauma. In some cases, riders don’t even notice their injuries because of their adrenaline, which can result in major health complications down the road. Even if you feel fine, you must still seek out medical assistance after your accident. An ER doctor can check for sprains, strains, concussions, and other medical issues that might not be felt right away.

Collect Information

Throughout this process, you should try to gather as much information as possible. Seemingly minor details could have a major impact on your case if the situation escalates into a legal battle. In addition to writing down the other driver’s insurance information, you might also want to take a few pictures of the scene. When you head to the hospital or ER center, you should write down any treatments or medications that you receive as well.

Contact Your Insurance Provider

As soon as you are able to do so, you must notify your insurance company of the accident. Most insurance providers have rigid rules regarding accidents, and you might not receive compensation if you don’t call them within a few days. During that call, you only need to tell them basic information like who was involved and a general overview of what happened. That phone call is going to be recorded, and anything that you tell the representative could be used against you at a later time.

Speak with an Attorney

Your accident could change your life forever, and you want to be absolutely sure that you receive fair compensation. Even if you were partially at fault, you might still receive some financial assistance for your medical bills and any time that you take off work. If you aren’t being treated fairly, then you need to call an experienced motorcycle accident attorney. A legal representative will help you get the compensation that you deserve from your insurance provider or the other party.

Following a motorcycle accident, your health should be your primary concern. No matter what other steps you take, you must always head to the closest hospital or ER center for a thorough checkup.

Motorcycle Mishap: 4 Keys for Picking up the Pieces after Your Crash

All auto accidents are traumatic, but motorcycle accidents are especially so. Motorcyclists tend to sustain more severe injuries, have more damage to their vehicle, and even to have more emotional distress over the accident. However, there are ways that you can help yourself to begin the recovery process.

Document All Injury

Many people do not get adequately compensated for their injuries because they failed to document all expenses. These include medical bills, medications, tests, special devices like neck braces, transportation and parking for appointments, and missed work. In addition, you need to document the impact on your life. Do you have pain? Nightmares? PTSD-like symptoms? Emotional distress? Fear of riding? Buy a notebook and write down whenever you are in pain, upset, or cannot handle daily activities as a result of the accident.

Get a Lawyer Immediately

Insurance companies deal with accidents on an hourly basis and are skilled at finding ways to not pay settlements. You do not have the experience needed to go up against them. However, motorcycle accident lawyers Naqvilaw.com and similar firms deal with these companies every day and know how to advocate for you. Get a lawyer while it is early enough to collect evidence and document your case.

Follow Doctor’s Orders

Many people initially feel fine and are eager to resume their daily activities. However, many of the injuries incurred in a motorcycle accident can become chronic or life-threatening if you do not follow your doctor’s orders regarding rest, work restrictions, and other parts of recovery. It is important to follow your doctor’s orders even if you think you can handle doing more.

Do Not Discuss the Case without Your Lawyer’s Approval

Anything you say can be used against you. Insurance companies will take things out of context or misrepresent your words to make it look like you were at fault or like you aren’t as injured as you claim. They may even try to interview your friends, coworkers, and neighbors. Do not discuss your accident unless your lawyer says you may, and even then be sure they have approved your statement.

Motorcyclists are often blamed for accidents that were not their fault and denied the insurance settlements to which they are entitled. These four tips will give you a better chance at getting the medical care and payment that you need to pick up the pieces and move on with your life.