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With the shock, confusion, and physical trauma brought by a motorcycle accident, it can be difficult for victims to know what steps to take immediately following the incident. Yet, knowing what to prioritize at the scene can make all the difference in your case’s outcome.
At Christie Farrell Lee & Bell, we’ve represented Indiana residents since 1993, providing expert legal support in personal injury law. In today’s article, we’ll cover exactly what to do after a motorcycle accident, giving you tips and insights to protect your rights and proactively build a strong case from the start.
Ensure Safety First
The first priority after a motorcycle accident is to ensure safety for yourself and the others involved. If possible, move to a safe location, away from oncoming traffic, to reduce the risk of further injuries. However, remember to avoid moving anyone who’s seriously injured unless their location poses an immediate danger, as this could worsen their condition.
Call the Authorities
After securing a safe area, assess the situation and call 911 to request emergency medical assistance and law enforcement. Then, wait for help to arrive, and follow any instructions given by first responders.
Even if the accident seems minor, contacting the police is an important step, as a police report serves as a key document when filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action. The report often includes invaluable information when seeking compensation, such as details about:
- The scene
- Potential witnesses
- The initial assessment of what might have caused the collision
Document the Scene
Thorough documentation of the accident scene can make a significant difference when building a legal case. Take photos and videos to capture vehicle damage, road conditions, and visible injuries. Also, try to collect contact information from witnesses, as their statements may support your version of events.
Gathering this evidence will aid in filing a motorcycle accident claim and help challenge any disputes over liability. Especially in high-risk areas, like the most dangerous intersections, evidence from the scene is crucial for proving negligence and clarifying disputes over what caused the accident or who is at fault.
Avoid Admitting Fault
It’s crucial to avoid any statements that could be interpreted as admitting fault. Remember that even a simple apology can be used against you during an insurance claim or lawsuit.
Instead, focus on collecting the necessary information and cooperating with law enforcement. This approach protects your right to pursue compensation later, especially if there’s disputed liability. Even for an accident that wasn’t your fault, we recommend avoiding disclosure of certain details without consulting a lawyer first.
Get Medical Attention Immediately
Even if you believe your injuries are minor, seek medical attention right away. Certain injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries or internal bleeding, may not present immediate symptoms but have severe consequences if left untreated.
Additionally, medical records also serve as important evidence when filing an accident claim in Indiana. It connects your injuries directly to the incident and prevents insurance companies from disputing the cause.
Contact Your Insurance Provider
Notify your insurance company about the motorcycle accident as soon as you can. When speaking to your insurer, be honest about the events and facts, but avoid making statements that could imply you were at fault. Being cautious in your communication is key to protecting your claim.
An experienced attorney will assist in dealing with insurers and protect your best interests throughout the process. At Christie Farrell Lee & Bell, our lawyers handle the insurance company on your behalf, allowing you to focus on your recovery while we advocate for your right to fair compensation.
Seek Legal Representation
Legal claims can quickly become overwhelming, with insurance companies pressuring you to settle for less and deadlines looming. Without professional guidance, important aspects of your case may be overlooked, which could impact the final compensation you receive.
One critical reason to act promptly is the statute of limitations in Indiana, which sets a strict two-year timeframe for filing a lawsuit. While two years may seem like plenty of time, gathering crucial evidence, negotiating with insurers, and building a strong case can take months. The sooner you consult a motor vehicle accident attorney in Indiana, the better we can investigate the crash, secure witness statements, and ensure all deadlines are met. Delaying action could mean losing access to vital compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages that you deserve.
Understand Your Compensation Rights
If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, the compensation you’re entitled to can cover much more than just the basics. Depending on the details of your case, here’s what you could potentially recover:
- Medical expenses: This includes everything from emergency care and surgeries to long-term treatments like physical therapy or necessary medical equipment. You can even recover costs for future medical care related to your injuries.
- Lost wages: If your injuries kept you off the job, you’re entitled to compensation for the income you’ve lost. If your ability to work is permanently impacted, you may also be compensated for reduced earning capacity.
- Pain and suffering: Beyond the physical pain, this includes the emotional toll—such as anxiety, depression, or the loss of joy in activities you once loved.
Your motorcycle accident lawyer will guide you through every step of the process, ensuring you know what’s available and that you’re fully prepared to fight for it.
Get in Touch With a Local Motorcycle Accident Attorney at Christie Farrell Lee & Bell
This article outlined essential steps to take after a motorcycle accident to strengthen your compensation claim. Prioritizing safety, gathering evidence, and seeking medical care are critical first steps. However, achieving fair and full compensation often requires the expertise of a motorcycle accident lawyer.
At Christie Farrell Lee & Bell, we bring over decades of experience in assisting accident victims throughout Indiana, including:
If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident in Indiana, contact us today to schedule a consultation and let us help you pursue the compensation you deserve.