Most motorcyclists use every possible safety precaution, but all it takes is one mistake by another driver to cause a motorcycle accident. In that event, even the most careful and skilled motorcyclist is at risk of life-threatening injury.
Many survivors of motorcycle crashes suffer serious injuries that require hospitalization, surgery, and long-term medical treatment that could hinder their ability to return to work or resume family responsibilities. As a result, if you or a family member is involved in a motorcycle accident in Bartow, Florida, it’s important that you know how to protect your rights.
What To do After a Motorcycle Accident?
If you or other accident victims need emergency medical assistance, you should first ask someone to call an ambulance. If you can, while you are still at the accident scene, make sure you do the following things:
- Get the name, address, and telephone number of the other driver(s).
- Get the driver’s license number(s) of the other driver(s).
- Get the insurance information of the other driver(s).
- Get the make, model, and year of the other vehicle(s) and check the vehicle registration.
- Take down the vehicle owner’s name and address if the driver does not own that vehicle.
- If it is a business vehicle, write down the name, address, and telephone number of that business.
- If the vehicle is leased or rented, write down the name, address, and telephone number of the rental company.
- Give the other driver(s) your name, address, phone number, driver’s license number, and insurance information.
- Speak with the witnesses. Ask for their names, addresses, and telephone numbers (home, cell, and work). If the witnesses do not want to get involved, write down their automobile license plate numbers and the states where the license plates were issued.
If you did not go to the emergency room right after the accident, it’s recommended that you see a doctor as soon as possible. It is crucial to get a check-up, because you may not be able to tell how badly you are hurt immediately after an accident. Be sure to follow all the doctor’s instructions about further medical care, tests, treatment, or restrictions on your activity.
Things to Avoid After a Motorcycle Accident
After a serious motorcycle accident, the at-fault driver or his/her insurance company may try to take advantage of an injured victim. To avoid this, follow these guidelines:
- Do NOT get into an argument with the other driver(s) about what happened.
- Do NOT sign any statements or documents about the facts of the accident.
- Do NOT have your bike repaired. Wait until you have an attorney who will get your motorcycle photographed and inspected, then notify the other driver’s insurance company.
- Do NOT answer questions from an insurance company or an attorney representing the other driver.
- If your own insurance policy requires you to report your accident within a certain time, hire an attorney to help you with this as well.
Some motorcycle accidents are not caused by negligent motorists, but instead, they result from a roadway defect due to faulty pavement. These cases often involve complicated legal issues. In addition, the time to file these claims is much less than the time for pursuing other legal actions. In these cases, it’s important that you have an experienced attorney to handle these complex requirements properly.
Looking for a Motorcycle Accident and Personal Injury Attorney in Bartow, Florida?
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident in Bartow due to the negligence of someone else, turn to the legal experts at O’Toole Law Group. Our qualified Bartow personal injury attorneys have decades of experience dealing with all types of personal injury lawsuits, including motorcycle accidents. Contact us today to schedule a free legal consultation.
