WHAT TO DO AFTER A MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT
St. Louis, Kansas City, and Jefferson City, Missouri
The scene of a motorcycle accident is hectic and filled with emotion. What you do and say at that time can influence the amount of compensation you receive in a personal injury case. The Bradley Law Firm has some suggestions to consider should you find yourself involved in a motorcycle accident.
As a motorcyclist, you are more likely to have sustained serious injuries than other parties, so remain motionless if you are in pain. Only move if you are in immediate danger. If you can, immediately dial 9-1-1 and the operator will call an ambulance and the police.
It is important to answer all police questions accurately. If possible, also exchange contact and insurance information with others involved in the accident. The police may do this for you if necessary. After the police have done their work, ask for a copy of the report to be sent to you.
Document the Motorcycle Accident
It is important that accident victims document all pertinent information regarding a personal injury case. Please do the following if you are able to:
- Photograph the accident site to show the relative positions of vehicles, skid marks, weather conditions, signage or lack of it, and any other relevant factors
- Photograph your motorcycle to document damage
- Photograph any injuries you sustained
- Talk with any witnesses and get their contact information
Accept Medical Care
It is important to accept any medical treatment offered at the accident scene. The symptoms of some common motorcycle accident injuries, such as a brain injury may not become evident until hours or days later. Even if you think you feel fine, accept onsite treatment. You may be in shock and therefore not fully yourself. If you reject medical care now and symptoms arise later, insurance companies will claim your injury was not related to the accident.
You will need to notify your insurance company of your accident but it is not necessary to give any written or verbal statement to insurance adjusters. Never accept the first compensation offer made by any insurance company. It will be a lowball offer designed to dispose of your case as cheaply and quickly as possible.
To help your motorcycle accident attorney help you:
- Maintain a diary of medical treatment
- Keep copies of all related bills
You will be in a better position to obtain full compensation for your injury and property damage if you follow the above suggestions. As soon as you can, please contact our Missouri motorcycle accident attorneys to schedule your free case evaluation. The Bradley Law Firm serves St. Louis, Kansas City, and all of Missouri. We also serve residents of Jefferson City and rural parts of Missouri.