Motorcyclists might face scary moments in which they feel powerless, overwhelmed, and unsure about what to do next. While knowing what to do in the aftermath of an accident is essential, knowing what not to do is just as important. You may be liable for legal fines, have your rights impaired, or get less money as a result of specific actions. If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, contact your lawyer for legal advice.
What should you not do after a motorcycle accident?
- Stay in the moment.
You may be tempted to leave the location of an accident in the minutes after it, especially if you feel alright or the damage seems to be modest. However, it is against the law to leave an accident site without sharing information with the other people involved. No matter who was at fault, abandoning the scene might result in criminal penalties.
- Remember to call the police.
Reporting the police is essential, even in cases when the damage appears low. A formal record of the event containing details about what happened and who participated is a police report. Whether you wish to file a lawsuit or make an insurance claim, this report could serve as a vital piece of evidence.
- Never neglect medical care.
Due to the adrenaline surge after an accident, you might not feel pain right away, but this does not mean you are not hurt. Certain injuries, such as internal bleeding or whiplash, may take hours or even days to manifest symptoms. After the collision, get medical help right away to make sure you do not miss any possible injuries.
- Do not accept fault.
Even if you are unclear about who is at fault, it is only expected to want to apologize after an accident. But any admission of guilt, even if it is only an “I’m sorry,” might come back to haunt you. Keep your conversation with the other person to just exchange insurance and contact details.
- Never ignore the collection of evidence.
Collect as much evidence as you can on the spot. This may include taking pictures of the collision scene, your motorcycle’s damage, any apparent injuries, and the other cars involved. Furthermore, get in contact with any witnesses you may have. This evidence is significant in proving wrongdoing and estimating your damages.
- Never negotiate with insurance providers by yourself.
Insurance adjusters could resolve your claim as soon as possible and for the smallest sum of money. Furthermore, they can request that you give a recorded statement that might be used against you. Avoid participating in direct discussions with them. Instead, get an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer to represent you in negotiations and communications.
