It's Best To Be Prepared: What To Do If You're Involved In A Motorcycle Accident

Now that the winter weather has finally bowed out, it's time to take your motorcycle out of storage. If you've got some road trips planned for this summer, it's also time to start thinking about accidents. No one wants to think about accidents, but when motorcycles are concerned, planning for the possibility is essential. If you are involved in a motorcycle accident this summer – or any other time – here are three steps you need to take right away.

Take Pictures of the Scene

If you find yourself the victim of a motorcycle accident, the first thing you need to do is assess your injuries. The second thing you need to do is call for emergency assistance. Once you'd taken care of those two issues, you'll need to take pictures of the scene. This step is particularly important where motorcycle accidents are concerned. That's because many drivers will try to place the blame on the motorcycle driver, regardless of fault. Pictures will help provide the details.

Motorcycles

When it comes to the pictures, you want to take pictures of your motorcycle first. Taking pictures of your motorcycle will show where it came to rest, as well as the condition of the bike after impact.

Other Vehicles

Once you've taken pictures of your motorcycle, you'll want to take pictures of the other vehicles that were involved in the accident. Pay close attention to the vehicle that struck you, including the impact areas.

Surrounding Area

Finally, take pictures of the surrounding area, including street signs. If the other vehicles are still in their original positions of impact, that pictures of that area, as well. Those pictures will show your motorcycle in relation to the other vehicles.

Watch the Statements You Make

While you're at the scene of the accident, the adrenaline may be pumping, which means you may talk a bit more than you should. Be sure to watch the statements you make, including statements that could be misunderstood as admissions of guilt, or disparaging comments against other drivers. To avoid problems later, it's best that you avoid discussing the accident with anyone other than the investigating officer.

Don't Wait to Consult an Attorney

Once you've left the scene of the accident, and received medical care for your injuries, you need to consult a motorcycle accident attorney. Don't wait too long to do this. The insurance companies will be contacting you for statements, which means you want to be prepared with legal representation – even if the accident was not your fault.