Motorcycle accidents are just as serious as any other accident. Many assume that since the collision wasn’t with another sedan, the same post-accident procedures don’t apply. This is far from the truth. Be sure to take each of these steps after colliding with a motorcycle.
Stop
The first and most important thing to do is to stop driving. If you are physically able, get out of your vehicle and check out the damage and the well-being of the other driver. Do not move your vehicle or instruct other drivers to move theirs until authorities are on the scene.
Call 911
Whether there are injuries or not, you should always dial 911 following a motorcycle accident. The dispatcher can send out a paramedic if necessary and dispatch a police officer to the scene. Once the officer arrives, he or she will make an official report of the accident that you can provide to your insurance company.
Gather Driver Information
As you wait for the police to arrive, you can personally collect the other driver’s information. You should jot down their:
- Driver’s license number
- Vehicle registration
- Insurance provider and policy number
- License plate information
Locate Witnesses
You should also identify any potential witnesses. Collect their personal information and avoid speaking about the causation of the collision. It is vital that you do not skew their recollection of the accident.
Take Pictures & Notes
Take pictures of the damage to your vehicle and the scene of the accident before authorities arrive to clear debris. You should also take pictures of any injuries sustained if possible. Jot down what occurred before, during, and after the accident in as much detail as possible. Your account of the incident may blur over time as you hear other perspectives.
Notify the Insurance Company
Once everyone clears the accident scene, authorities have come and gone, and you’ve made it safely to your destination, contact your insurance company. It is most important that you do not forget to do this as they have the right to deny your claim if you wait too long to report the accident. Be sure to take note of when you contact them for your record.
Speak With an Attorney
The following and probably most crucial step after a motorcycle accident is to seek legal representation. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney with E. Orum Young Law Offices can inform you of the damages you can seek compensation for and how to go about doing so. We have represented Louisiana drivers for over 35 years and take pride in providing firm legal representation for our clients. Our Trial Guarantee ensures that we will take your case to trial per your request. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.
