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The weather in most places is perfect all year round; hence, it is no surprise to see people riding around in motorcycles admiring the scenery. Unfortunately, the prevalence of motorcycle use has seen an increase in accidents.
According to the NHTSA (National Highway Traffic Safety Administration), motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to die in an accident than people in a passenger car. These alarming motorcycle accident stats highlight the critical need for riders to be extra careful when they hit the road, and for all drivers to remain vigilant and aware of motorcyclists on the road. With so little protection around them, even small mistakes or sudden movements from other drivers can turn serious. A little more attention from everyone can help keep the roads safer for all.
In case of legal concerns or serious injuries, consulting motorcycle accident attorneys in Boca Raton ensures you are well-represented and compensated for all your losses.
This guide will discuss the do’s and don’ts of a motorcycle accident.
Do: Try to Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
After an accident, stay as clear-headed as possible. Panic can cloud your judgment and lead to rash decisions that can make the situation worse. Take a moment to assess yourself and your surroundings. Check your body for injuries and examine the motorcycle for damages.
Don’t: Rush to Move
Even if your instinct pushes you to get up and move, refrain from doing so before assessing your condition. This can quickly worsen hidden injuries, so it’s important to check for signs of serious harm.
Also, don’t move your motorcycle unless it’s clear who is at fault, even if your motorcycle is not totaled. Once you’re sure it’s okay to do so, move your motorcycle to a safe zone.
Do: Call Emergency Assistance
Call 911 and provide the dispatcher with clear details about the accident’s location, the number of victims, and the extent of the injuries. The dispatcher will ensure emergency personnel are quickly dispatched to offer assistance.
Also, seek medical evaluation as soon as possible, no matter how minor the injuries seem. A thorough medical evaluation ensures all injuries are spotted and treated early. It is a way of getting medical records that can be used to back up your claim.
Don’t: Engage in Confrontation or Blame
After an accident, emotions run high, and it is easy to get caught up in the cycle of blaming others. However, it is critical to avoid accusations at the scene, as this could escalate. Let law enforcement and insurance companies handle fault determination later.
Also, avoid saying sorry. This can be deemed an admission of guilt. Instead, use statements like “I don’t know.” The insurance company is always looking to pay as little as possible, and even the smallest sentiment can jeopardize your case.
Do: Document the Accident
Record as much evidence as necessary. This includes clear photos of the accident, including damage to your motorcycle, other vehicles involved, and clear injuries. Capturing multiple angles helps create a clear picture of the scene.
Additionally, get information from witnesses who may have seen the accident unfold. Be sure to exchange details like insurance information and license numbers with the people involved.
Don’t: Ignore Legal and Insurance Processes
It is essential to report the accident to your insurance company immediately. Failure to do so might complicate your claim or lead to delays when receiving compensation.
If the accident involves serious injuries, disputes over liability, or other complications, consider hiring an attorney who specializes in motorcycle accidents. Legal guidance is crucial to ensuring your rights are protected.
Conclusion
Motorcycle accidents, like any other form of road incident, can be physically and emotionally overwhelming. However, knowing the steps to take after an accident can make a big difference in getting maximum compensation.
An accident can be a difficult situation to navigate, but the tips and information here will certainly help. It’s always good to remain calm (although hard to do sometimes) as everyone involved is likely shaken up. Thanks for sharing!