Do you plan for the worst every time you get onto your motorcycle? Whether you are taking a quick trip to the store or riding on the open road for hours, you should know what to do if you ever get into a collision. Hopefully you already wear protective gear and know how to avoid a crash, but an accident can occur no matter what, even to the most skilled motorcyclists.
What if a negligent driver cuts you off and causes a wreck? You do not want to be stuck somewhere with a motorcycle you cannot ride. Here is what you should do in this situation.
1. Assess the damage and injuries
The first thing you should do is assess the aftermath. If you are able to safely move, check if the other people involved are okay. It is more likely that you are worse off, especially if you crashed with a car or truck.
2. Take a lot of pictures
Chances are you have a smartphone. According to RideApart.com, you should use it to take plenty of pictures of the motorcycle accident scene from multiple angles. Take pictures of all property damage, injuries and cross streets. This documentation will come in handy when you are talking to insurance companies and lawyers later.
3. Exchange information
Make sure you swap the following details with other people involved in the crash:
- Name
- Mailing address
- Phone number
- Insurance details
- License plate number
- Driver’s license number
You should be polite while exchanging information, but do not admit any fault for the accident.
4. Call the police
It is a good idea to involve law enforcement, even if there are no severe injuries. When police respond to the accident, they will file an official accident report including statements from you, the other drivers involved and any witnesses.
5. Get a lawyer
A legal professional can help you navigate the aftermath of your accident, from negotiating with the insurance company to filing a personal injury lawsuit if necessary.
