For a motorcycle rider, few things are as freeing as hitting the open road. Motorcycles provide a unique experience that allows you to connect to the sights, sounds and scents of the world around you. However, this exposure to the outside world is also what makes motorcycles more dangerous. Even if you’re aware of the dangers, you likely assume that an accident won’t happen to you. Maybe you think you’re too good a driver, or perhaps you simply aren’t the type to plan for the worst. Either way, it’s a good idea to be aware of what you should do in case an accident occurs.
On the Scene: The Immediate Steps Following an Accident
Get Out of the Road
The first and most crucial step after an accident is making sure you’re safe. If you can move, do what you can to get out of the road. If possible, move your motorcycle out of the way as well. If you can’t move, do what you can to alert people in the area so someone can help divert oncoming traffic until help arrives.
Call for Help
Even if you don’t feel any pain or discomfort, it’s smart idea to call an ambulance. You might be suffering from internal injuries, and you don’t want to pass out later when you’re home alone, and there’s no one around to help you. Getting checked out right away will also ensure you have the proper documentation for a motorcycle accident attorney if you choose to pursue a case. It’s also important to speak with the police, especially if you think more than $500 worth of damage has been done. A police report can help your motorcycle accident lawyer win your case, so be sure not to skip this step.
Get Information
If you’re physically capable, your next step should be to speak to the other drivers who were involved in the crash. Get names, phone numbers, license numbers, plate numbers, insurance information and vehicle descriptions. If witnesses are hanging around, ask for their contact information as well. It’s difficult to track down an unknown person after the fact, so don’t be shy about asking while you have the chance. Most people will have no problem being a witness and will gladly speak to your motorcycle accident attorney if necessary.
Don’t Admit Anything
If you fear the accident might have been your fault, stay quiet. It’s good to own up to our mistakes, but after an accident, you might be dazed, confused and unclear about what actually happened. You could possibly admit to something that wasn’t your fault at all, and if that goes on record, your case might go out the window. If you are at fault, you and your motorcycle accident lawyer can discuss your options at a later time.
The Aftermath: When to Contact a Motorcycle Lawyer in Los Angeles
Call the Insurance Company
As soon as you finish getting checked out at the hospital, you should call your insurance company to report the accident. Have all of the information you gathered ready, including the police report and the names of the officers you spoke with at the scene.
Call a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Los Angeles
At this point, the insurance company will usually try to figure out who is at fault for the accident. It’s a good idea to contact a lawyer at this time. Insurance companies will sometimes assume that the motorcycle driver is at fault and raise the insurance rates. If you’ve suffered injuries as a result of the accident, you may be entitled to damages, and you don’t want to miss out on that much-needed money. A lawyer can assess your situation and let you know if you have a case, but if you wait too long, this will become more difficult.
Don’t Sign or Accept Anything
It’s possible that you might be approached with an offer in the weeks following your accident. Maybe the other driver wants to avoid a legal hassle by paying you directly. While accepting this cash might be tempting, be aware that in doing so, you’ll be ruining your chances of taking this case to court in the future. In certain circumstances, that can be devastating. For example, what if what you thought was a minor injury turns out to have major health consequences six months from now? Don’t accept or sign anything without speaking to your lawyer beforehand.
If you’re ready to get the help you need after a crash, contact the Law Brothers® today. Within our team, you’ll find the best motorcycle accident lawyer in Los Angeles for your case. We’re ready to assist you in any way we can, so please give us a call now.
