Last year in Wisconsin there were nearly 2,000 motorcycle crashes. Those crashes resulted in 1,693 injuries and 81 fatalities. The leading cause of most motorcycle crashes is when a vehicle turns left in front of an oncoming motorcycle with the right of way. This is a dangerous situation for motorcyclists and it accounts for 42% of all crashes involving a motorcycle and a car.
You don’t want to be one of these statistics. But if another driver causes you to crash, what happens next?
What should you do after a motorcycle crash?
- Call the police:
- Even if you think you’re okay and the incident was minor, getting statements and a record of the accident is important.
- Take photos of the accident scene:
- Make sure you take photos of the surrounding area, anything that could have contributed to the accident, and the damage to your motorcycle.
- Get checked out by a doctor:
- Do not skip this step! After the accident, you might feel fine initially, but there could be hidden injuries that are not yet visible to you.
- File an insurance claim:
- Make sure you call your insurance company to start a claim. The sooner you start this process the better.
- Obtain a police report:
- After the police are called and write up a report, make sure you request a copy. It could come in handy down the road if there are questions about the accident.
- Keep a record of all bills and receipts:
- This will be very helpful and necessary if you decide on legal representation.
What NOT to do after a motorcycle accident?
- Do not admit fault:
- Let the police investigate the accident. They will try to determine what happened.
- Don’t agree to just “forget about it”:
- Even if it seems like a minor crash, there might be damages to you or your bike that doesn’t become apparent until much later. Make sure that the police are notified and the accident is documented.
- Don’t assume that you’re not hurt:
- After an accident, your adrenaline levels can elevate. The adrenaline might give you the feeling of being fine, despite potential injuries. It is crucial to get yourself examined by a doctor following an accident.
One question that is often asked after a crash is, “should I hire a motorcycle accident lawyer?”
The answer is yes. Motorcycle accidents can be complex and often involve significant and life-lasting injuries. At Habush Habush & Rottier, your consultation with a lawyer is free and confidential. You will get a chance to ask questions and learn about the law surrounding your crash. A skilled motorcycle attorney will make sure that you are getting fairly compensated not only for damage done to your motorcycle, but also for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. A motorcycle crash lawyer can help you navigate this complex situation and get you the compensation that you deserve.
