A motorcycle accident can be a frightening and emotional experience. In addition to physical injuries, it can leave you upset — and even downright angry. This can make it hard to think clearly about the steps you need to take following your accident. Many experienced riders know that medical care and treatment are the top priorities following a crash, but then what? As a motorcycle accident attorney TN depends on, I am here to help. Whether you’re an avid rider or just want to be a responsible, informed driver, below are the steps you need to take after a motorcycle accident to get the compensation you deserve.
Six Steps to take after a Motorcycle Accident
1. Call 911
Whether you have sustained serious injuries or not, an accident should be reported to the police immediately. Calling 911 is typically the quickest and easiest way to report a crash. When the police arrive on the scene, they will write up an accident report. This is official evidence that the crash occurred and will be an important piece of evidence in your insurance claim.
2. Seek medical attention
Unfortunately, many motorcycle accidents result in severe injuries due to the lack of protection provided by the vehicle. Therefore, many riders are taken directly to the emergency room following a crash. However, even if you were lucky enough not to sustain life-threatening injuries, you need to see a doctor for an examination as soon as possible. If you wait too long to see a doctor, your insurance provider can argue that your injuries were not necessarily a result of the crash.
3. Gather evidence
When possible, it is a good idea to document everything you can from the crash site. Gather witness testimony. Make videos and take pictures of the scene of the accident. Videos of the accident site before the vehicles are moved can help prove fault in a motorcycle accident.
4. Document all injuries and damages
Document any injuries you sustained with photographs and written notes. Take photos of your injuries immediately after the crash and throughout your recovery. Written notes about daily pain levels are helpful too. Ultimately, this documentation helps prove your damages.
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident, you may also be entitled to compensation for financial losses. However, you need to show proof of these damages to receive compensation. Keep careful records of all expenses related to the crash, including medical bills, loss of income, travel expenses, payment for help with household chores while you’re recovering, and any other out-of-pocket expenses.
5. Do not agree to written or recorded statements for insurance companies
An insurance adjuster may request that you provide a written or recorded statement in order to process your injury claim. However, don’t be fooled, this is an insurance tactic used by many companies to deny or undervalue your claim. Before providing any statements or signing anything, it is best to talk to an experienced Tennessee motorcycle attorney.
6. Contact a motorcycle accident attorney TN knows and trusts for FREE
If you or someone you love has been injured in a motorcycle accident in Tennessee, call 901-327-2100 or contact us online for a FREE consultation – no strings attached. We are here to answer all of your questions and provide legal support. Whether you decide to file a claim or not, seeking information and knowing your rights early on is crucial.
If you do decide to file, our compassionate and experienced legal team will investigate your accident for you so you can focus on your recovery. We will negotiate with insurance companies and defense lawyers on your behalf to get you the compensation you deserve.
Motorcycle accidents differ from car crashes, and the level of injury is often greater. You don’t have to go through this process alone. Give us a call today to hear how we can help.