While motorcycles comprise only 3 percent of all the vehicles registered in the United States, they account for a disproportionate share of the fatal accidents that happen each year. In 2017, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported that motorcyclists accounted for 14 percent of all traffic accident fatalities, with 5,172 riders killed in accidents. Even if you ride cautiously, you might not be able to avoid an accident on your bike. During the immediate aftermath, knowing what to do after a motorcycle accident can be difficult. Review the tips below so that you’re prepared in case the worst should happen.
Knowing what to do after a motorcycle accident can be tremendously difficult. In an instant, your life will change. You may feel confused, overwhelmed, or upset. When people are involved in collisions, they also might have adrenaline coursing through their systems, which can make knowing what to do even more difficult. To avoid making mistakes, it is a good idea to drive defensively at all times and keep the following tips in mind:
Right after your accident, you should evaluate your surroundings and situation. If you are lying on the street or highway, you should try to move out of traffic to a safe spot. You should also check others who were involved in the accident and help any injured victims. Ask the motorist to turn on their hazard lights to warn other motorists.
Right after your accident, not realizing that you are injured, you may try to remove your safety gear. Do not do this. Instead, wait for the emergency responders to arrive. If you remove your helmet, motorcycle jacket, motorcycle boots, or other safety gear, you could exacerbate existing injuries.
Once you have moved to a safe location, you should call 911 to report your accident. The dispatcher will send the police and paramedics to you to provide emergency medical care and document the accident.
If you can, take pictures of the damage to your motorcycle and the other vehicle. You should also try to take pictures of the entire accident scene, any tire marks on the road, street signs, traffic lights, weather conditions, road conditions, and any other relevant details. Try to get the names and contact information of any witnesses, and write down the make, model, color, and license plate number of the vehicle that hit you. You should also exchange information with the driver, making sure to get his or her name, driver’s license number, registration information, insurance information, address, and phone number.
You should always go to a doctor to be examined after a motorcycle accident. Some injuries might not be immediately apparent. Getting prompt medical care can help to prevent your injuries from worsening while also providing evidence that your injuries were caused by your accident.
Contact your insurance company to report your accident. Your company is responsible for paying for your medical expenses up to your policy limits. If the other driver is primarily at fault for your accident, you can file a lawsuit against him or her to seek damages.
If you were injured in Massachusetts, you should consult with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney at Ellis & Associates as soon as possible after your wreck. By getting help early, you will provide your attorney with more time to thoroughly investigate your claim to build a stronger case. In addition, you will avoid missing the deadline for filing your claim. Under Mass. Gen. Laws ch. 260 § 2A, you have a maximum of three years to file a personal injury lawsuit from the date of your injury accident. If you fail to meet this deadline for filing your claim, it will be time-barred. This means that you will not be able to pursue a claim to recover monetary damages for your losses.
Are you ready to pursue a personal injury claim? Contact Ellis & Associates today for a free consultation by calling 800-MR-ELLIS.
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