Road accidents involving motorcycles are one of the most fatal categories of accidents. Motorcyclists are especially riskier than car drivers since they have relatively low protection.
Things To Know After A Motorcycle Accident
In any case, having information on what a motorcyclist should do after a motorcycle accident is essential in a bid to make a motorist get what he or she deserves from the accident. It is crucial for motorcycle accident victims to know what measures to take, and this article will explain the legal procedures that will be followed.
Exposing the frailty of the motorcyclists
Motorcyclists are more vulnerable to accidents than occupants of cars or trucks, for instance. Groups of traditional motorcyclists involve themselves in accidents, and in such cases, they will have very limited protection. Common injuries include:
- Head injuries: Despite wearing a helmet, there is a great chance of head injuries, which may have complications or become permanent.
- Road rash: This is a painful injury that arises from skin abrasion, which results in a friction burn that in most cases is severe and may need the attention of a doctor.
- Broken bones: The consequences of an accident consist of injuries such as fractures, mainly in the extremities and the back.
- Spinal cord injuries: An injury resulting from a fall or collision may lead to spinal injury, which results in lifelong disability like paralysis.
These injuries can be crippling and may need very expensive medical care and physiotherapy.
The primary responsibility of learning about fault and liability
This is important because once a motorcycle accident has occurred, it is important to identify who has caused the accident and should therefore be punished. Common causes of motorcycle accidents include:
- Car drivers turning left: Another main cause of motorcycle accidents is the car drivers’ inability to see motorcyclists during left turns.
- Unsafe lane changes: If the driver of a car moves to a lane next to a motorcycle without signaling or observing the motorcyclist, it will cause an accident.
- Speeding: Other road users and motorcyclists are also likely to endanger themselves and others through rapid movement, which shortens their response time and makes accidents more catastrophic.
- Impaired driving: Alcohol or drug-influenced car driving is one of the main causes of accidents since judgment is affected and nerves are sluggish.
- Road hazards: Defects such as potholes, debris on the road, and wet conditions often lead to loss of balance that leads to accidents.
This will help when filing the claim and identifying who is to blame.
What You Should Do After the Motorcycle Accident
In any motorcycle accident, several things ought to be done, and the failure to do so will determine the outcome of the case. Here are the essential actions to follow:
- Seek Medical Attention: It’s important to have a medical examination done even if you feel quite well because some of the injuries may take time to be realized.
- Document the Scene: Establish pictures of vehicles after the accident and other photo evidence that may include skid area as well as the road. Where possible, try to get the details of the witnesses.
- Report the Accident: Report the occurrence to the police to be helpful for insurance purposes and in the case of a lawsuit.
- Contact Your Insurance Company: Do this to enable the insurance company to start the process and off course inform them of the accident.
If in doubt that the accident was due to somebody else’s negligence, then you should consult a motorcycle accident attorney for legal advice.
Responsibilities of Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
A motorcycle accident attorney is someone who helps you deal with legal issues that surround your case. Here are some of the ways they can assist:
- Investigating the Cause: A person can hire a lawyer to help him analyze who was to blame for the accident, as well as collect and prepare all necessary documentation.
- Understanding Insurance Coverage: They can assist you in explaining your insurance cover and also assist you to get the amount which you deserve plus in situations where the other driver’s insurance cannot meet your needs.
- Negotiating a Settlement: An attorney will act as a middle man and will help to talk to the insurance company and ensure you get a fair amount that will cater for your losses.
- Going to Court: If the case cannot be resolved by negotiations, your lawyer will stand for you in court to ensure he gets you the right pay.
Finding the right motorcycle accident attorney for your case.
Who you hire to represent your motorcycle accident case matters a lot. Here are some tips for finding the right lawyer:
- Look for Experience: Select an attorney familiar with motorcycle accident cases. They will be familiar with the peculiarities of the respective types of cases.
- Check Their Reputation: Search for the reviews the client posted or ask for ones from other actual clients to know if the attorney works for similar cases.
- Consider Communication: Your attorney also needs to be willing and able to communicate with you when the need arises. Make sure they are people with whom you can work.
- Evaluate Fees: Most motorcycle accident lawyers base their operational model on contingency fees, thereby meaning that they will only be paid if the plaintiff wins the case. Make sure you first explore how much they charge for their services.
Some Errors Made after Motorcycle Accidents
Whenever there is an accident, it is very possible to engage in certain actions that can precipitate further complications in your case. Here are some common mistakes to avoid:
- Don’t Admit Fault: As much as a person feels like they might be to blame, they should never admit it at the scene. I agree with letting the investigation speak to fault.
- Avoid Social Media: Do not share the information about the accident on social media sites. Opposing lawyers, as well as insurance companies, will likely gather some of your posts in an attempt to use them against you.
- Don’t Sign Anything Without Legal Advice: Don’t accept any settlements or legal documents without speaking to a motorcycle accident lawyer first.
Moving Forward: The Road to Recovery
Physical and financial rehabilitation after a motorcycle accident can take a long time. Here are some tips for moving forward:
- Prioritize Your Health: Economize your energy for bodily healing and stick to everything your doctor has instructed you to do.
- Seek Support: You may also benefit from group therapy and talking with a therapist to learn how to deal with the emotions that come with the accident.
- Stay Patient: The legal and recovery process can sometimes be slow, so it is always advisable to be very persistent.
- Consult a Financial Advisor: If a person is experiencing a major injury for example he or she had to spend a lot of money on medication or lost wages then a financial expert is going to be instrumental in helping him or her financially while recuperating.
Conclusion
Motorcycle accidents are usually a distressing incidence that causes physical, psychological and monetary repercussions. As shocking as some of the scenarios that follow such accidents may sound, there are others who have waded through the legal waters, and you do not have to do it yourself. You can, therefore, get a fair compensation offer for your injuries, loss of earnings, medical bills, and discomfort following a crash if you know your rights and what to do afterward.
The first thing that any person should consider after the accident is that they should check with their doctors. So if you have broken bones, cut your skin, bruised or have been in a shock, it is always wise to seek medical attention. Certain impairments, like internal ones or head trauma, may leave no signs of the injury in the first days, and medical help will help avoid many future issues.
