9 Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident
Motorcycle riding is exhilarating and a convenient way to travel on California roads. Motorcycle accidents can be life-altering and cause catastrophic injuries. In 2021, motorcycle riders were about 24 times more likely to die in a motorcycle crash than an occupant of a passenger vehicle. Here are important steps to take after a motorcycle accident in Torrance:
Get to Safety
Oftentimes the crash location can be in the path of oncoming traffic. If you are in the way of traffic and are able to move, it’s best to get out of harm’s way to avoid another accident. If you are injured, it’s best to call for emergency services and to limit your movements, move to a safe area if you are able to, and wait for medical personnel to arrive.
Keep Your Gear On
After a motorcycle accident, many motorcycle riders may try to take off their helmets. However, it’s best to keep your helmet and other protective gear on until you receive medical attention. Taking off your helmet or other protective gear like gloves and boots can cause further injury, especially if you are already injured in those areas.
Call the Police and Get a Police Report
It’s crucial to call the police and wait for the authorities to arrive at the scene of the motorcycle crash. Ensure you obtain an official report. A police report has important information such as:
- The date, time, and location of the accident
- Description of the condition of the roads
- Description of the vehicles involved and property damage
- Names and contact information from the involved parties
- A diagram detailing the scene of the accident
- Traffic citations
- The responding police officer’s opinion on how the accident occurred
- Witnesses’ contact information
The police report can help in establishing fault, especially if the other driver committed a traffic violation, such as running a red light. The insurance company will also ask for the police report for your personal injury claim.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
If you or anyone else involved in the motorcycle crash sustained injuries, call 911 immediately. Most severe injuries may not be easy to identify. When someone experiences an adrenaline rush, the pain and symptoms of their injuries may be masked. Even if you don’t feel injured, it’s crucial to get checked out by a medical professional. Follow the treatment plan prescribed by your doctor and document your injuries throughout your recovery. Ensure you collect your medical records and medical bills
Common motorcycle accident injuries include:
- Broken bones and fractures
- Road rash and lacerations
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injury
- Whiplash
- Back injury
- Soft tissue damage
- Neck injuries
Exchange Contact and Insurance Information
Exchange information with the other parties involved in the motorcycle crash, including the following:
- Name
- Address
- Phone number
- Insurance company
- Insurance policy number
- Driver’s license
- License plate number
Gather Evidence at the Scene of the Motorcycle Crash
Take photos and videos of the motorcycle crash scene, including any damage to your motorcycle, the other vehicle involved, and any other personal property. Additionally, take photos of the road conditions, skid marks, debris, broken glass, and car/motorcycle parts.
Speak to Witnesses
If there were any witnesses at the accident scene, get their contact information and ask if they are willing to provide a statement about what they saw. Eyewitness testimonies can be essential in establishing fault in a motorcycle accident.
Don’t Talk to the Other Party’s Insurance Company
The driver’s insurance company may reach out to you quickly after the motorcycle crash and ask for a statement. It’s best not to speak with the other party’s insurance company, but to consult with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer. Insurance companies are looking out for their bottom line and may try to use your statements against you to minimize or deny your claim.
Contact an Experienced Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Torrance
Gather information for your personal injury case including police reports, medical records, medical bills, and proof of other expenses related to the motorcycle accident, and consult with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer. Most personal injury lawyers in California offer a free consultation to review your case and legal options. A motorcycle accident attorney will help you prove liability and hold the other involved parties accountable for your losses.
Our California Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Can Help
If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle crash in Torrance, it’s vital to consult with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney who can help protect your legal rights and ensure that you receive the medical treatment and compensation you deserve.
At South Bay Accident Lawyers, we are committed to helping motorcycle accident victims obtain compensation for their injuries and losses. Our Torrance motorcycle accident lawyers maintain a 99% success rate and have recovered millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for our clients. Our personal injury law firm operates on a contingency fee basis, so you won’t pay anything until we win your motorcycle accident case. If we don’t win, you won’t pay anything. Call us today at (424) 571-4994 to schedule a free case evaluation.
