A motorcycle accident can be a scary experience even for the most cautious rider. Unlike vehicles, motorcycles are generally unsafe. The lack of proper protection to cushion riders and pillion passengers from harm in case of a crash increases the odds of sustaining catastrophic injuries.
If you have been in a similar crash before, you already know the chaotic and traumatic aftermath that follows. Because the immediate moments after an accident are critical and ultimately impact your legal rights and well-being, knowing what to do after a motorcycle accident in Texas City, such as seeing a doctor and calling the police, can save you a great deal.
Our Texas City motorcycle accident lawyers handle these cases daily and identify the following as the most important steps anyone should take after a crash:
Stop and Stay at the Scene
The sudden adrenaline rush that sets in after an accident often activates the fight-or-flight response. Victims flee the scene too soon due to trauma and shock. Sadly, leaving an accident scene too soon may work against you, especially when you pursue your rights in the future.
Besides being a legal obligation for anyone involved in a traffic accident to remain at the scene, fleeing may just as well imply you are running from responsibility. If you wish to pursue compensation later on, insurance companies will use that as a reason to deny your claim. The insurance adjuster will argue that you left too soon because you were at fault.
Call the Police
The police play a crucial role in any traffic accident. Call 911 and report all the details of your motorcycle accident as you can remember. Beyond helping with documenting the scene and the crash as a true occurrence, the police will also play an integral role in your pursuit of justice.
Their findings, as contained in the final police report, are admissible as evidence when building a personal injury case. Be sure to request a copy of the report and show it to your attorney for follow-up and documentation.
See a Doctor
According to the Texas Department of Transportation’s motorcycle safety campaign, at least 519 bikers were killed in 2021 alone. These numbers represent just a small fraction of the many motorcycle crashes reported nationally.
These statistics demonstrate the inherent danger of motorcycle crashes. Although some only result in minor cuts and bruises, common motorcycle accident injuries also include potentially fatal harm, such as traumatic brain injuries, internal injuries, and spinal cord injuries, among others.
Therefore, your utmost priority should be seeing a doctor immediately and getting treated for the harm you suffered. Don’t forget to document the treatment and recovery journey in case you want to file an injury claim for compensation. Never self-diagnose or self-treat for injuries suffered in a traffic accident.
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Collect Information
If you are emotionally, physically, and psychologically fit to stay at the scene, you should collect as much information as you can regarding the crash. Take note of crucial information such as when the accident happened, the parties involved, witness accounts, and weather/road conditions.
All these factors come in handy when figuring out exactly what transpired and whether you are eligible to file an injury claim.
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Document the Scene
Take as many photos and videos of the scene as possible. Also, capture the area surrounding the accident scene for future purposes. The scene may be cleared too soon before crucial information is collected by your attorney.
You could use any recording or storage device, including your phone, to note maximum details about the crash. All the information you recover should be handed over to your motorcycle accident lawyer during the first meeting.
Consult a Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Lastly, remember to consult and involve an experienced motorcycle accident attorney. While it may be too early to think of pursuing compensation, your lawyer will guide you on the right steps to take to keep you safe and also safeguard your rights.
In case you want to file a claim, your attorney will:
- Establish the fault
- Determine your eligibility for compensation
- Value your past and future damages
- Collect relevant information and evidence
- Negotiate with insurance companies
- Take your case to court if necessary
Reach Out to Lone Star Injury Attorneys to Learn More About What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Texas City
The beauty of working with the seasoned team at Lone Star Injury Attorneys is that we only collect legal fees if you are compensated. Our no-win-no-pay policy, otherwise known as a contingency fee arrangement, puts your interests first before ours.
Do not hesitate to contact us to learn more about what to do after a motorcycle accident in Texas City or anywhere else. Our team has nearly two decades of combined experience. We are happy to listen to you and answer any questions you may have.
Call or text (832) 346-9585 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
