8 Steps to Take if You Are in a Motorcycle Crash

A motorcycle crash can happen at any time and anywhere. According to the Arizona Department of Transportation, on average, eight motorcycle accidents were reported every single day in 2016. The majority of those accidents resulted in injuries; some in fatalities. About 17 percent resulted only in property damage.

Motorcyclists are often exposed to more dangers and elements than a car or truck driver. Still, they deserve the same considerations as other drivers and cyclists. For many, riding a motorcycle is an enjoyable hobby and mode of transportation– they shouldn’t have to give up doing what they love as a result of another driver’s negligence.

Motorcycle Crash Accident Injuries

Based on the statistics from the AZDOT, more than 70% of all motorcycle crash accidents led to injuries. From the injuries reported, the majority of them occurred despite the rider wearing a helmet. Even if riders are wearing the proper safety gear, they are still exposed to many dangers.

Some of the most common motorcycle crash accident injuries include:

• Head trauma
• Dental injuries
• Road rash
• Cuts and scrapes
• Whiplash
• Broken bones
• Spinal cord injuries
• Sprains and strains
• Rider’s arm

Rider’s arm is an injury more common among motorcycle riders than typical car drivers and passengers. The injury can occur when the rider extends their arm to brace for impact and try to stop themselves. The term may also be used to describe nerve damage when a rider’s motorcycle falls on their arm after an accident.

Unfortunately, many motorcycle riders are susceptible to suffering a number of injuries during an accident, often leading to a longer recovery process.

8 Steps to Take if You Suffer Injuries

The moments after a motorcycle crash are critical not just for your health but also for the health of your personal injury claim. If you have been injured in an accident, here are a few steps to take to protect yourself and anyone else who may have been injured.

1. Get medical attention. Whether it’s taking an ambulance to a hospital or going there on your own accord just after the crash, it’s important to have your injuries documented as quickly as possible. Even if you don’t think you’re injured, get checked out as you may have suffered internal injuries.
2. Make sure everyone is safe, especially if you had a passenger on your motorcycle.
3. Stay at the scene and call the police. Make sure you report the accident and provide details to the officer, if you can, about what happened. Avoid blaming anyone for the crash.
4. Take photos of the accident scene, including damage to your motorcycle and the other vehicle involved in the crash. You will also want to take photos of your injuries as soon as it’s possible.
5. Contact a lawyer as soon as possible so they can begin working on your case.
6. If possible, exchange information with the other driver. The information may also be found on a police report.
7. Contact your insurance company. Let them know you have been involved in an accident and provide the details required.
8. Keep track of your medical appointments. Whether it’s follow-up appointments or treatment, make sure you keep track of these appointments and any charges you might have incurred.

As you recover from your accident, keep track of how your injuries are impacting your life. Are you missing time at work due to prolonged recovery time? Are you missing time at work for medical appointments? Is it difficult to do everyday things like chores around the house?

You may also want to keep track of how the accident has impacted you emotionally. Do you feel nervous when on the road? Are you suffering from dreams or nightmares? You may need to seek additional treatment for the emotional distress caused by the accident.

Why You Should Contact an Attorney after a Crash

One of the reasons you want to contact your lawyers after a crash is so they can start working on your case and provide any legal advice you need. Additionally, they can work as your liaison with the insurance company so you can continue recovering from the collision in peace and assured you will get what is fair.

If you recently have been involved in a motorcycle crash that was not your fault, call our office to set up a free consultation.