Five Things You Should Do if You Are Involved in a Motorcycle Accident

Motorcyclists do not enjoy the same protections as other motorists on the road. The vehicles they ride are much less stable, and they are not afforded the benefit of airbags, seatbelts, and other safety features. It is for these reasons combined that motorcyclists are at greater risk than drivers. In fact, according to the Governors Highway Safety Association, fatalities are 28 times more likely to occur in motorcycle accidents than in crashes involving two smaller vehicles.

If you have been hurt while on your bike, the steps you take immediately afterward are critical for your case. Below, our Ohio motorcycle accident lawyer explains the five most important steps to take.

Report the Crash

In Ohio, you must report any motor vehicle accident that results in injury, death, or property damage valued at more than $1,000. There is little chance that you will escape a motorcycle accident unscathed, so it is always important to report it to ensure you comply with the law. Additionally, after you report the crash, a police report will be filed, which can serve as strong evidence in your case.

Collect Important Evidence

If you are able to, it is important to collect evidence while you are still at the scene. This is often where the strongest evidence is located, and it can show how the crash occurred and who is at fault. The evidence you should collect includes pictures taken from different angles, the location of any video surveillance cameras, the name and contact information of eyewitnesses, and details about the negligent driver’s behavior, such as if they are acting as though they are impaired.

Seek Medical Attention Immediately

The injuries you will sustain during a motorcycle accident are some of the most severe. It is critical that you seek medical attention for them as soon as possible so they do not become worse. If you do not see a doctor immediately following an accident, the insurance company will also use it against you. They will argue that because you did not see a doctor, you could not have sustained serious injuries.

Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company

Motor vehicle accidents in Ohio are governed by tort law, which means you must file a claim with the negligent driver’s insurance company. Your own insurance company, though, also needs to know that a claim has been filed, so you should contact your own insurer as soon as possible. If you do not tell the insurance company about the crash, the insurer may cancel your policy altogether.

Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Ohio

After a motorcycle accident, it is important to know you have legal options. At Lafferty, Gallagher & Scott, LLC, our Ohio motorcycle accident lawyer can advise you of what those are and help you throughout the entire claims process so you obtain the full and fair settlement you deserve. Call us now or contact us online to schedule a free consultation and learn more about how we can help.