If you are a motorcyclist, then you know that there is always a risk of getting into an accident. No matter how careful you are, accidents can happen.
If you find yourself in this situation, there are some things that you should do to protect yourself and make the process easier.
If you have been involved in an accident with motorcycles in Myrtle Beach, it is important to seek the help of a qualified Myrtle Beach motorcycle accident lawyer who has experience dealing with the specific laws and regulations that apply to motorcycles in the area.
In this blog post, we will discuss eight things that you should do after a motorcycle accident.
Frequent types of motorcycle accidents
When it comes to motorcycle accidents, there are a few common types. The most common type of motorcycle accident is an intersection collision.
This usually occurs when another vehicle runs through a stop sign or fails to yield the right of way. Another frequent type is head-on collisions.
These occur when two vehicles collide with each other while traveling in opposite directions on the same road.
Finally, lane-splitting accidents are a common type of motorcycle accident. These happen when a motorcyclist is riding between two lanes of stopped or slowly moving traffic. Also, a motorcyclist may be sideswiped by another vehicle if they are not seen in the blind spot. So, it's important to be aware of these common types of motorcycle accidents. Now, let's discuss the eight things that you should do after an accident.
1. Seek Medical Attention
The first thing that you should do is seek medical attention, even if you don’t think your injuries are serious. Even if you don’t feel any pain, it is important to get a professional opinion so that any potential injuries can be treated immediately and further complications can be avoided.
In addition, seek medical attention promptly if you experience any of the following symptoms: dizziness, headaches, nausea, chest pain, or difficulty breathing.
2. Document Everything
The second thing that you should do is document everything related to the accident. Take pictures of the scene and get contact information for anyone who was involved in the accident or witnessed it. Make sure to get the contact information of any medical personnel or police officers who were at the scene. The experts at NJ Injury Guys Trenton, NJ advise that you should also keep track of all the medical bills, repair bills, and other associated costs that relate to the accident. Everything should be documented in one place so that it will be easier to make a claim with your insurance company. The more you document, the more likely your claim will be successful.
3. Contact Your Insurance Company
Once you have sought medical attention and documented everything, it is important to contact your insurance company as soon as possible. Let them know that you have been in a motorcycle accident and provide them with all the necessary information. In addition, keep records of all your communication with the insurance company and take notes if you speak to an adjuster in person.
Get a Copy of the Police Report
It is important to request a copy of the police report from the responding officer at the scene of the accident. The report will contain valuable information, such as descriptions of the vehicles involved and statements from witnesses that can be used in your claim.
Also, keep track of any expenses related to the accident, such as medical bills and car repair receipts. Neatly organize these documents and keep them handy in case you need them later on. Having the right documents and evidence can help you receive the compensation that you deserve and protect yourself from any liability issues.
5. Retain an Attorney
If the accident resulted in any significant injuries or damages, it is important to retain an attorney. An experienced personal injury lawyer can help you navigate the legal system and make sure that you receive fair compensation for your damages. Namely, the legal advice and representation provided by an attorney can be invaluable in helping you make the best decisions for your situation. You can learn the shortcuts when it comes to filing a lawsuit, as well as how to protect your rights.
Another benefit of having an attorney is that they can handle all communication with the insurance companies and other parties involved in the accident. The lawyer can also negotiate a settlement and take your case to court if necessary.
6. Keep Track of All Your Expenses
Keep track of all your medical bills, repair bills, and other expenses related to the accident. This will help you get an accurate amount of compensation from your insurance company and can be used as evidence in a lawsuit, if necessary. If you have any questions about what expenses are covered, talk to your attorney. The lawyer can also help you understand the process for filing a claim and any deadlines that need to be met.
In most cases, filing a claim within the appropriate time frame is essential to receiving compensation.
7. Follow Your Doctor's Orders
Follow all of your doctor’s orders for treatment, including taking any medications prescribed or attending follow-up appointments. Failing to follow your doctor’s orders could have negative consequences, such as delaying your recovery or putting you at risk for further injury.
For instance, if you are prescribed physical therapy after an accident, it is important to attend the sessions and complete all of the exercises recommended by your therapist. Make sure you keep track of all your medical appointments and follow-up visits. These records can be used as evidence in your case.
8. Avoid Giving a Recorded Statement
Finally, it is important to avoid giving a recorded statement to anyone other than your own attorney. Anything that you say can be used against you in court, so it is best to be cautious and refrain from making any statements before speaking with an attorney.
Namely, when you share information with the other party’s insurance company, they may use it to deny your claim or downplay the extent of your injuries. Therefore, when it is possible, it is best to contact a lawyer before speaking to the insurance company.
By following these eight steps, you can ensure that your rights are protected and that you have the best chance of receiving fair compensation for your damages. If you or a loved one has been in a motorcycle accident, contact an experienced personal injury lawyer to discuss your legal options.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Aleksandra Djurdjevic
Senior Content Creator
Aleksandra Djurdjevic is a senior writer and editor, covering snowboarding, skiing and trends in outdoor winter activities. She has previously worked as ESL teacher for English Tochka. Aleksandra graduated from the Comparative Literature department at the Faculty of Philosophy in Serbia. Aleksandra’s love for the mountains, getting out in the snow on her board, season after season, seeking wild snow adventures across the globe helps her continue to be a top expert at CSG.
