When you are on your motorcycle, you are already taking a risk even if you exercise every precaution. Because of your smaller profile, many drivers may not see you or even consider that you and other bikers may be on the road. This means you may be making many sudden moves to avoid a collision. It also means you have to be prepared for the worst at every moment of your ride.
Part of being prepared is knowing what to do if you are ever involved in a crash. The first moments, hours and days following the accident may be critical toward building a case if you should decide to pursue financial compensation for your injuries. It may also help you obtain the benefits you need and deserve from the insurance company. Knowing these steps ahead of time is a smart way to be ready in case the unthinkable happens.
Maximize your chances of recovery
The world may shift into slow motion at the moment of a collision with another vehicle. You may not even feel pain as your body engages its defenses to protect you. Eventually, however, you are going to hurt, and your injuries may be quite severe. It is not unusual for victims of motorcycle accidents to suffer brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, internal injuries, road rash or broken bones. Therefore, it is imperative that you accept a medical assessment at the scene and then do the following:
- Follow up your medical assessment with a trip to the hospital or your primary physician since some serious injuries may have delayed symptoms.
- Contact police, who will evaluate the scene, speak to witnesses and provide documentation of the accident.
- Obtain contact information from the other driver and any witnesses.
- Take pictures of the scene, the vehicles and your injuries.
- Seek legal advice from an attorney who knows North Carolina’s personal injury laws and has experience with motorcycle accidents.
- Keep a log of your symptoms, both physical and psychological, and any ways in which your injuries have interfered with your daily life.
It is possible that besides the other driver, more people or entities contributed to the accident that caused your injuries. You will want to investigate every possible source of compensation. Since you may not know right away the extent of your injuries and the treatment you may need, it is wise not to accept a quick settlement offer from an insurance company.
While it is true that many motorcycles crash because their operators make bad judgments or careless mistakes, the negligent drivers of other vehicles also contribute to countless accidents, injuries and deaths.