You’ve been hurt in a motorcycle crash, either as a passenger or while operating a bike. Chances are your injuries are serious. The things you do in the immediate aftermath of a motorcycle accident can have a significant impact on whether or not you recover full and fair compensation for all your losses. Here’s what you need to do.
Don’t worry about anything else until you’ve received the medical attention you need. Don’t engage in false bravado—this isn’t the time to dismiss your injuries or act the tough guy. Acknowledge that you have been hurt and get the care you need. If you are unable to move under your own power or if you believe you have injuries to your head, neck, spine or back, stay where you are until emergency medical technicians arrive and then defer to their judgment.
If you are able to walk away, seek medical care as soon as possible, whether at a hospital ER, an urgent care provider, or your primary care physician. Make certain you tell doctors and nurses about everything that’s out of the ordinary. Don’t focus on the obvious injuries—the broken bones—and neglect to mention the pain and stiffness in your lower back.
You can help your attorney by obtaining basic information from others, including persons who may have caused the accident, as well as any witnesses. Get contact information, including name address, email address and phone number. Take pictures, if you can—the camera on your phone is fine. Get shots of anything relevant, from the damage to all vehicles to your injuries, the road conditions, tire marks or any roadway defects.
This should really be your first priority—the sooner you retain legal counsel, the sooner you’ll have someone working to ensure that you get everything to which you are entitled. Your lawyer can be your liaison with insurers, helping you get all the benefits promised in your policy. Your attorney will also safeguard the critical evidence and help make certain you don’t do or say anything that jeopardizes your claim.
