Did you know that in 2020 motorcycle accidents accounted for 14% of traffic fatalities? It’s a shocking statistic considering only three percent of road users were motorcyclists.
No one wants to get in a motorcycle accident. It could leave you feeling uneasy operating a vehicle for the rest of your life.
Unfortunately, things can happen at any time. That’s why it’s essential to be prepared as you’re on the road.
But what if you get into a motorcycle collision and live to tell the tale? What should be your next steps? We’ll outline everything you need to know below.
1. Get Yourself to Safety
When you get into a motorcycle crash, things will be frantic. But if you’re not hurt too badly, move out of harm’s way.
Although your bike might be your prized possession, there’s still ongoing traffic coming from both directions. Also, check to see if anyone else was injured during the crash.
2. Don’t Remove Your Gear
Instincts will tell you to remove your gear after an accident to check for injuries. However, your adrenaline will be racing and likely prevent you from feeling pain.
Furthermore, if you remove your helmet, it could exacerbate a head or neck injury. Your best course of action is to wait for the paramedics to arrive and assess the damage.
3. Call 911
After you’ve gotten to safety, ensure to contact 911 right away. If you can’t call, ask a bystander to make the call for you.
It could be challenging getting someone to call because of the “bystander effect.” Be specific with your actions. Point at a person or shout out details about their clothing so they know you’re trying to communicate.
4. Seek Medical Treatment
Even if you don’t have any visible injuries, let paramedics check you out once they arrive. Remember, you will be in shock, so things might not be clear to you.
Motorcyclists are prone to injuries such as:
- Internal bleeding
- Broken bones
- Head trauma
It’s vital to listen to paramedics on the scene. They may recommend you for follow-up procedures depending on the accident’s severity.
5. Gather the Necessary Evidence
While waiting for the paramedics to arrive, it’s essential to gather evidence. Take pictures or videos of the damage. You’ll need them for your insurance claim.
It doesn’t matter if it was a single-vehicle crash. Incorrect road signs, limited visibility, and skid marks can all help strengthen your case. Also, make sure you ask a police officer for a report of the incident.
Contact your insurance company after gathering what’s necessary and receiving medical attention. Explain what happened in detail and relay the corresponding evidence when asked.
6. Consider Legal Action
Hiring a motorcycle accident lawyer might be something to consider depending on the situation. The accident could’ve been caused by reckless driving from another party or yourself.
Either way, having a motorcycle accident lawyer las vegas nv on your side can significantly benefit your case. They’ll also advise you on further communications with your insurance company as things move forward.
Here’s What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident
Getting into a motorcycle accident can be daunting. However, if you follow our suggestions, you’ll have a firmer grasp of the situation.
Hopefully, you’ve gained more clarity on this subject. Feel free to read some of our other blog posts for related content.
