According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, motorcyclists are close to 28 times more likely to die in a traffic accident than passengers in other types of vehicles. Injuries caused by motorcycle crashes are often deadly or cause great harm, including permanent disability.
Common consequences of motorcycle crashes include:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
- Internal organ damage, internal bleeding and other internal injuries
- Broken bones, sprains, concussions
- Death
These injuries are only a few of many and death is certainly the worst possible scenario. However, if you are injured and make it through, there are things you can proactively do right after the motorcycle accident to protect yourself legally:
- If you sustain injuries from a motorcycle accident, the very first thing you should do is call 911 and get medical assistance. Time is of the essence and you must ensure that you receive medical care as soon as you possibly can.
- Call the police immediately and do not flee the scene of the accident
- If you are able to, find any witnesses and gather their contact information
- Write down everything you remember about the accident
- Note the exact place where the accident took place and whether there was construction going on at that time, anything unusual and out of the ordinary
- Collect any debris you can and place in a clean bag if possible, unless police tells you not to
- Take photos of the scene of the accident
- Do not speak with any of the other parties
- Contact your personal injury attorney to discuss the next steps, which will involve filing a claim with the insurance company.
Motorcycle crashes are dangerous, and you want to protect yourself both physically and legally. Make sure you understand that everything you do after an accident before you leave the scene is important.
Help is available and ensuring that you receive accurate information about the next steps after the accident is critical for your legal protection.