Motorcycles are a cheaper, faster, and more convenient alternative to cars for many people. Despite these advantages, getting in a motorcycle accident poses severe risks to the rider (and passenger, if any). If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, your first series of actions is crucial. This article details the right steps to take after a motorcycle accident.
- Seek Medical Attention Immediately
The first and most important thing to do after a motorcycle accident is to ensure you are safe. Move to the side of the road to prevent further casualties. Check your body for injuries and get first aid treatment if available.
Do not stop there; visit the hospital to get treatment for injuries. Some injuries start small and, if left untreated, become serious and have lifelong implications. Also, get a thorough examination to rule out concussion, internal bleeding, or any other internal issues. Essentially, the sooner you get medical attention, the faster you return to good health.
- Document Everything
Documentation will save you more stress than you can imagine. If you can, take pictures of everything. These images should include the scene, your injuries, the damage to your motorcycle, and damage to other vehicles. Also, capture the surrounding structures, the road, the plate numbers of the vehicles involved, the traffic signs, etc. If you cannot do this because of the severity of the accident, wait for an ambulance to get medical attention.
You can also get examination documentation from the hospital. Make copies of your medical bills, receipts, treatment records, etc. If you need follow-up treatments, rehabilitation, or physical therapy, document the entire process. “These documents can increase your chances of getting fair compensation either at the negotiation table or in a courtroom,” says Attorney Jan Dils of Jan Dils, Attorneys at Law.
- Report the Accident
In West Virginia, you must notify law enforcement when accidents happen. When the police arrive at the scene, be completely cooperative, factual, and truthful with them. If they do not arrive, go to the nearest police station to make a report as soon as you can.
A police report is an essential piece of evidence when filing liability disputes and insurance claims. Ask for a copy of the report for your records when it is ready. Ensure you check the report for accuracy and correct any discrepancies.
Avoid admitting fault while making your report. Only state facts when you talk to the police, the other driver(s), and any witnesses. Also, avoid signing any documents or making statements to public sources.
- Contact an Attorney
The process of claiming compensation after a motorcycle accident can be too rigorous and complex for you to do on your own. Securing the services of a personal injury attorney can help you navigate this process and secure fair compensation.
Find someone with a specialization or experience in the injury you have. You will always find a lawyer who fits this profile in West Virginia. Make sure they have a strong history of winning similar cases and excellent reviews from past clients. Lawyers like this understand how to handle the court system and can help if you have to negotiate with insurance firms.
Another thing you want to consider when contacting a personal injury lawyer in West Virginia is what other people are saying about their services. Reviews and ratings are ideal metrics when determining a chosen attorney.
- Notifying Your Insurance Provider
After ensuring your safety and documenting the accident, notify your insurance company of the accident. Timely reporting is necessary to get insurance settlements under most policies.
Insurance companies will usually attempt to limit their payments. So, speak with your attorney before notifying your insurance provider. Allow your attorney to answer the insurance company’s questions and decide what information is necessary to divulge.
Conclusion
Getting involved in a motorcycle accident can change the trajectory of your life in a flash. However, you can secure adequate compensation if you take the right legal steps, as listed in this article. Remember to do everything promptly, as every decision you make counts towards securing your claim and well-being. The sooner you take action, the better it is for your situation.
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