What to Do Immediately After a Motorcycle Accident

April 25, 2023 Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents can be incredibly traumatic experiences, leaving riders feeling confused and overwhelmed. However, it’s crucial to remember that what you do in the moments immediately following a motorcycle accident can have a significant impact on your health and a future insurance claim or lawsuit. With that in mind, here are some steps you should take immediately after a motorcycle accident.

Get to Safety

The first thing you should do after a motorcycle accident is to get yourself to safety. If possible, move your motorcycle off the road and out of the way of traffic. If you are unable to move your motorcycle, turn on your hazard lights and make sure you are visible to other drivers. If you are injured and unable to move, try to remain calm and wait for help to arrive.

Call 911

Next, call 911. This will bring law enforcement officers and emergency medical services to the scene. The police will document what happened and create a report that details the parties involved in the collision, the location of the incident, and how the officers believe that the collision occurred. This documentation can be incredibly valuable if you need to file a claim with your insurance company or if you decide to take legal action.

Seek Medical Care

Even if you feel like you are okay after a motorcycle accident, it is essential to seek medical care as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as internal injuries, may not be immediately apparent but can cause life-threatening consequences if left untreated. Additionally, seeking medical care will create a record of your injuries, which can be important if you decide to pursue legal action.

Take Photographs and Videos

If you are able to do so, take photographs and videos of the accident scene. Be sure to take pictures of your motorcycle, any other vehicles involved in the accident, the area around the collision, and any property damage that occurred. Photographic evidence can be incredibly valuable in a motorcycle accident claim, as it can help corroborate certain facts about the accident and document the damages that you suffered.

Exchange Information

After a motorcycle accident, it’s important to exchange information with any other drivers involved in the accident. This should include names, contact details, insurance information, and license plate numbers. If you are unable to collect this information, do not worry—the police report will likely contain these important details.

Speak to Witnesses

If any witnesses saw the accident happen, it is important to speak to them and get their contact information as well. Witnesses can provide valuable testimony in your future claim, helping corroborate your version of events and prove the at-fault driver’s liability. Additionally, witnesses may be able to provide crucial details that can help you better understand what happened. 

Contact an Attorney

After seeking medical attention for your injuries, contact a motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible. An attorney can help you understand your legal options and take your first steps toward filing a claim against the person who caused your collision. To protect your right to recovery, schedule a free legal consultation to discuss your legal options with a Nevada motorcycle accident attorney.