Motorcycle accidents can be devastating. More than 80% of motorcycle crashes result in serious injuries according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Compared to car accidents – where drivers and passengers have the safety of air bags and a metal structure protecting them, motorcycle accidents victims are exposed to impact when they hit the road and are struck by other vehicles. Roughly 12 motorcyclists die and another 420 are treated for injuries related to crashes every day in America. Because of the inherent dangers of riding, it’s important to know what to do after a motorcycle accident!
#1 Get Off the Road
After a motorcycle accident, it’s important that you get off to the side of the road (if possible) to avoid the risk of being struck by oncoming traffic. If your injuries are too serious for you to move, ask for the driver of stopped vehicle to direct traffic around the accident so no one else gets hurt. Getting police on the scene as soon as possible can help protect everyone involved in the accident.
#2 Get Medical Attention
Because injuries from motorcycle accidents are usually serious and often fatal, getting immediate medical attention is wise. Common injuries from motorcycle accidents include road rash, broken bones, severed limbs, spinal and traumatic brain injuries. No injury from a crash should go untreated and the longer you wait before treatment the more at-risk you are for serious complications or fatality.
#3 Don’t Accept Blame
After an accident, you should never apologize or admit blame. Anything you say can be used against you and can get you sued even if you’re not at fault. At the hospital or recuperating at home, be on guard against talking to anyone about the accident. Medical professionals don’t need to know how the accident happened to treat your wounds! And insurance companies may send someone in while you’re disoriented, on medication or in shock to get you to make compromising statements.
#4 Get Documentation
After the accident, if you are physically able, snap photos with your smart phone of your bike, the position of the other vehicle(s) and any debris or skid marks on the road. If you’re unable, ask a bystander to snap photos for you. Also ask for help getting contact information for any witnesses who may be able to make supporting statements that prove the other driver was at fault.
#5 Get a Lawyer
Other than getting your injuries treated, this is one of the most important things to do after a motorcycle accident in Kirkland. You need an attorney experienced in motorcycle cases to handle your claim and make sure you are adequately compensated for your injuries, pain, suffering and future impacts of your accident such as lost wages, loss of a limb or a permanent limp or scarring.
Call Rob Kornfeld As Soon as Possible After Your Motorcycle Accident