Motorcyclists make up only 5% of all drivers, but the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that fatal motorcycle accidents occur 27 times more often than passenger vehicle accidents. Even the most careful and experienced motorcyclists are at risk of being in a collision. Therefore, all motorcycle drivers must know what to do after an accident. In the aftermath of a crash, the following steps are crucial to your safety and injury claim.
When another driver’s negligent actions caused your accident and injuries, you will need the assistance of a Orlando motorcycle accident attorney. Your injury attorney can handle your case by collecting and reviewing evidence, interviewing witnesses, and negotiating with insurers.
What Should I Do after an Orlando Motorcycle Crash?
Accidents of any kind can happen when we least expect them. A crash may happen on your usual work commute or when running to the grocery store. The NHTSA also reports that 52% of all auto accidents occur within five miles of home, while 69% of all accidents happen within 10 miles. If you happen to be in a motorcycle accident, follow these four steps.
Contact the Police
One of the first things you should do after a motorcycle collision is call local law enforcement. A police report is crucial in these cases. Reports ensure you tell your side of the story, and it forces the negligent driver to explain how they caused the accident. The report will also document the names, contact information, and insurance policy of all parties involved. Police reports are usually available three-four days after the accident, and you should request a copy. Make sure to give a copy to your attorney, as well.
Seek Medical Care and Attend All Appointments
It is crucial for motorcycle accident victims to seek medical care immediately after a crash, regardless of how minor they may seem. Some injuries that initially seem insignificant may later cause severe or chronic pain, long-term damage, or permanently disable you. However, a doctor can perform a comprehensive check-up and diagnose any external and internal injuries.
Additionally, you must attend all follow-up appointments. If you do not, the insurance company will likely argue that you recovered from your injuries and reduce your claim.
Never Talk to the Other Insurance Company
Accident victims should never give statements to the other party’s insurance company. Insurance representatives often employ tactics that get you to deny or minimize your injuries, symptoms, and pain. Later in the injury claim, they will then use those statements against you to prove that you were not as severely injured, allowing them to deny your claim. Remember, you are not legally obligated to speak to the other party’s insurance company. If they are persistent in speaking to you, refer them to your injury attorney.
Do Not Accept a Settlement before Consulting with Your Attorney
Never accept a settlement offer from the insurance company before consulting with your attorney. Insurance companies know accident victims are vulnerable following a crash, so they quickly offer low settlement offers. They do this so the injured party accepts an offer before knowing the full extent of their injuries.
Once you accept a settlement offer, you likely cannot collect more compensation from the other party. Before accepting a settlement, consult with your attorney. They can review the offer and ensure you receive a fair amount.
Contact an Experienced Orlando Motorcycle Accident Attorney
If you are the victim of a motorcycle accident in Orlando, do not hesitate to contact the accident attorneys at Wooten, Kimbrough, Damaso & Dennis. Our top-rated attorneys have over 100 years of combined experience holding negligent parties accountable for their actions, and you can be confident that we will do everything to secure maximum compensation for your losses. To schedule a free consultation, call (407) 843-7060 or complete our contact form today.