Arizona’s vibrant landscapes and open roads make motorcycle riding a popular pastime and an undeniable joy. With that said, the very freedom and exhilaration offered by a motorcycle also amplifies the vulnerability of riders in collisions with larger vehicles. While having the right safety gear and engaging in defensive riding are crucial, other drivers remain unpredictable. The Tucson motorcycle crash attorneys at Lerner and Rowe offer these four comprehensive steps to navigate the aftermath of your motorcycle wreck:
What You Should Do After a Tucson Motorcycle Crash
1. Immediate Steps:
- Prioritize safety: Your well-being and the well-being of others involved are paramount. If possible, move yourself and anyone else involved to a safe location away from traffic hazards. Look out for leaking fluids, fallen debris, or unstable motorcycle positions that could cause further harm.
- Assess for injuries: Even if you feel a surge of adrenaline and don’t experience immediate pain, check yourself and others for any injuries. Don’t hesitate to call 911 immediately. Internal injuries can go undetected initially, and seeking prompt medical attention is critical.
2. Contact Authorities:
- Call the police: Reporting the accident to the police is crucial, regardless of how severe you think the crash was. They will document the scene, gather statements from all involved parties, and conduct a proper investigation. Their report serves as an official record that’ll be vital for insurance claims and potential legal proceedings.
- File a police report: Even if the police aren’t dispatched to the scene due to minor damage or injuries, it’s essential that you file a report in person at the nearest police station. You’ll need this documentation down the line.
3. Document the Incident:
- Capture photographic evidence: Use your phone or camera to take detailed pictures of the accident scene from multiple angles. This includes capturing any and all damage to your motorcycle, the surrounding environment (weather conditions, road markings, traffic signals), the position of vehicles involved, and any visible injuries sustained.
- Gather detailed notes: While the details might feel hazy initially, it’s vital that you document everything you can remember about the accident as soon as possible. This includes the date, time, and exact location of the accident, the weather conditions, the parties involved (including names, contact information, and insurance details), and a clear description of the events leading up to the crash.
4. Protect Your Rights:
- Avoid discussing the accident: Refrain from discussing the details of the accident with anyone at the scene except the police. This includes any bystanders, witnesses, and even the other drivers involved. Statements made in the aftermath, even seemingly casual remarks, can be misinterpreted or misconstrued later and potentially harm your case.
- Seek legal counsel: Motorcycle accident cases can be complex and involve intricate details like liability, insurance coverage, and damage compensation. Consulting a qualified Tucson motorcycle accident lawyer is highly recommended. An experienced attorney can advocate for your rights, ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and damages, and guide you through the legal process efficiently.
What to Do Beyond the Immediate Steps
Recovering from a motorcycle accident often requires comprehensive medical care that extends far beyond the date of the accident itself. Follow your doctor’s instructions diligently, make all appointments, and complete any prescribed therapy or rehabilitation.
You should also keep meticulous records of all medical bills, receipts for related expenses, and documentation of lost wages due to the accident. These records are crucial for pursuing fair compensation for your damages in the future.
Lastly, be mindful of your social media presence. While staying connected with loved ones is important during this challenging time, refrain from posting details about the accident on social media. Insurance companies and opposing parties may monitor your online activity, and seemingly harmless posts could be used against you later.
Don’t Go It Alone–Contact Our Tucson Motorcycle Crash Attorneys Today
When involved in a motorcycle crash, physical injuries and mental distress can put you in a state of uncertainty. The Tucson injury attorneys at Lerner and Rowe will work hard to guide you through the necessary steps and protect your best interests. Get in touch today by calling us at 520-977-1900, using our LiveChat feature, or filling out this FREE online form today to schedule your free accident consultation.