The Do’s and Don’ts of Motorcycle Accidents!
Motorcycle riders are often privy to a sense of freedom most other motorists don’t have. The feeling of being out on the open road, with the wind whipping by you, while you cruise around every curve is exciting, but it also comes with very little protection if there’s ever something that goes wrong. The facts are simple: motorcycle accidents are far deadlier than their car accident counterparts.
According to the NHTSA, over 4,900 motorcycle riders died in 2018, which is a 5% drop from the year before – but still, quite alarming.
The Insurance Information Institute reports those who ride motorcycles are five times more likely to be injured in an accident than car passengers, and 29 times more likely to sustain a fatal injury.
Wearing a DOT-approved helmet, thick fabrics, and full-length pants may certainly aid in the prevention of injuries, but it’s not the same as having a seatbelt or an air-bag to rely on. Most motorcycle accidents result in the rider being thrown from their bike, that alone can cause irreversible damage due to traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, and broken bones.
Marcari, Russotto, Spencer and Balaban is proud to help anyone who has been involved in and injured in a motorcycle accident, but unfortunately, we cannot always be there to make sure that safety is a main priority. So, we’ve put together some dos and don’ts for anyone who rides a motorcycle, in the hopes that it helps when you decide to take the scenic route!
What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident
If you’ve just been involved in a motorcycle accident, the most important thing to do is stay calm.
It may be difficult, and you may feel an overwhelming sense of anxiety and uncertainty due to what just happened, but it’s vital that you take a deep breath, and try to center yourself for the moments going forward. Check to see if you have any serious injuries, and make sure that you are okay before you attempt to walk, stand, or move.
Once you’ve determined you are okay, and able to move without causing yourself further harm, here are some key tips on what you should do next:
- Call 911: This is the most important piece of advice that we can give. If you or someone in the other vehicle is seriously injured, please call 911 immediately. If there are no major injuries, it’s best to call the non-emergency number and report the accident to the operator to make sure the proper authorities show up to the scene as soon as they can.
- Speak to Witnesses: Unfortunately, many motorists see motorcycle riders a nuisance, so it’s best to speak with anyone that witnessed the accident take place, to make sure that you have a testimony stating you were not in the wrong. A witness can become a major part of your accident, especially if the case ends up in court.
- Document Everything From the Scene: Take pictures of your motorcycle, take pictures of the other vehicle, license plates, road conditions, weather conditions, everything. Taking notes is also a smart idea, as you may forget about something later on that played a key role in the accident taking place. This can easily be done with your smartphone – however, if it’s damaged due to your accident, wait for the police to arrive and let them know as many details as you possibly can.
- Head to Your Doctor: It’s critical to follow up with your primary care physician after an accident. With adrenaline and shock flowing through your body, you may not feel an injury you sustained until two or three days after. Make an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible, and let them know how you feel, where you fell, and what, if anything, hurts.
- Contact a Local Motorcycle Accident Attorney: At Marcari, Russotto, Spencer and Balaban, we know what to look for when investigating any motorcycle accidents, and we take any step necessary to make sure that any doubt is swiftly put to rest. We can be reached anytime online, or by phone at (855) 435-7247.
What Not to Do After a Motorcycle Accident
- Do NOT Leave the Accident Scene: It’s important to make sure that you stay at the scene of the accident, as in many states, including North Carolina, and Virginia, leaving or fleeing the scene of an accident is punishable by law. It’s not worth the time in jail, or the money spent trying to rectify the situation. Stay, and deal with the problem head-on.
- Do NOT Speak to the Other Driver(s): Although you may want to speak to the other driver, it’s best to keep your distance and remain quiet if they approach you. You could accidentally say something that may greatly hurt your case going forward. It’s best to make sure that any communication with the other party is done through either the police or an attorney.
- Do NOT Accept Any Cash/Settlements: Always speak with your attorney before accepting any money after an accident, it’s far more important to be safe, than to ever wind up sorry, just because you took the money after an accident.
- Do NOT Give any Statements: It’s important that before you speak to anyone about your accident, you consult with an attorney. You don’t want to say the wrong thing, or admit any fault on accident, as it can affect your claim going forward.
- Do NOT Speak to Any Insurance Adjusters: Plain and simple, these people are not here to help you, and they should not be trusted. If you are approached by an insurance adjuster, kindly decline to speak with them and let your attorney know as soon as you possibly can.
Schedule a Free Consultation with Marcari, Russotto, Spencer & Balaban today!
If you sustained serious injuries in a motorcycle accident anywhere in North Carolina, South Carolina, or Virginia, Marcari, Russotto, Spencer & Balaban may be able to help. We thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your accident and aggressively pursue the maximum compensation possible for your injuries. Call today at (855) 435-7247 or contact us online to schedule a free consultation.
You can also contact us by filling out the form below. Once you’ve filled it out, and we’ve received it, we will make sure to reach out to you as soon as we possibly can. Thanks!
