The latest data revealed 83,000 motorcycle injuries occurred in the U.S. in 2020. That puts the injury rate at 992 cases per 100,000 registered motorcycles.
Even worse, motorcycle accident injuries are far more severe than car crash injuries. After all, motorcyclists don’t have the same level of protection as people inside cars. Indeed, motorcycle riders are four times more likely to get injured.
So if you ride yourself, it pays to know what to do immediately after a motorcycle crash.
We’ll give you an overview of the steps below, so read on.
Check Yourself and Anyone Else for Injuries
A traumatic experience like a motorcycle collision can induce a temporary superhuman-like strength. This occurs due to the influx of fight-or-flight hormones in the body. It can boost your physical potential and make you feel numb enough to believe you don’t have injuries.
Therefore, the first thing to do after a motorcycle crash is to check yourself for injuries. Then, do the same with your passenger if you have one. Finally, check if the other people involved in the incident need medical assistance.
If anyone sustained injuries, is unresponsive, or has fainted, immediately call 911.
Call the Police
Most U.S. states set thresholds for reporting road incidents to the police. These are often based on the estimated amount of property damage, ranging from $500 to $1,000. However, all states require reporting of all crashes involving injuries and death.
Even if no one sustained an injury in the crash you were in, you should still call the police. They can guide you on what you should do next. Plus, you likely need the police report when you file a motorcycle insurance claim.
Exchange Insurance Details
Swap insurance information with the other motorists involved in the road incident. The best way to do this is to hand over your driver’s license and motorcycle insurance card to them. Then, ask them for the same documents.
Note their complete name, contact details, address, and insurance information.
Gather Evidence
Snap as many photos and record as many videos of the crash site as possible. Capture the scene from all angles, and ensure the roads and the vehicles involved are in it.
If there are any witnesses, ask them if you can get their statements. It’s also wise to ask for their complete names and contact information.
See a Doctor and a Lawyer
As soon as you can leave the scene, go straight to your doctor or a hospital. This is crucial to ensure you don’t have any internal injuries. If you do, undergo treatment right away.
You should also call a motorcycle accident lawyer providing free consultations. They can aid you with the claim and legal processes and help you get the fair compensation you deserve. To better understand what a lawyer can do for you, view these benefits of working with one.
Do These Immediately After a Motorcycle Accident
A motorcycle accident can cause thousands to millions of dollars in injuries. That’s why you should call the police, see a doctor, and consult a lawyer right after you get involved in one. The third is even more crucial if you believe the other driver was at fault.
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