Motorcycle accidents can be overwhelming and traumatic. In the moments following a crash, our safety and well-being should be our top priority. However, what we do immediately after the accident can also have a major impact on our ability to recover physically, financially, and legally. As Raleigh, NC motorcycle accident lawyers, we know how crucial it is to take the right steps to protect ourselves. Here’s what we should do after a motorcycle accident.
Check For Injuries And Seek Medical Attention
Our first priority should always be our health. Motorcycle accidents often result in serious injuries, including broken bones, road rash, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal cord damage. Even if we feel fine, adrenaline can mask pain, and some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Calling 911 ensures that we get the medical attention we need and that our injuries are officially documented, which is essential for any future legal claims.
Move To Safety
If we are able to move, we should get to a safe location away from traffic to avoid further danger. However, we should never move if we suspect a serious injury, as doing so could make it worse. Instead, we should wait for emergency responders to arrive.
Call The Police And File A Report
It’s critical to report the accident to law enforcement. A police officer will document the scene, interview witnesses, and create an official accident report. This report serves as crucial evidence when dealing with insurance companies and legal claims. We should be honest when speaking with the officer but avoid admitting fault, as determining liability requires a thorough investigation.
Gather Evidence At The Scene
If we’re physically able, collecting evidence can help support our case later. We should:
- Take photos of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions, skid marks, traffic signs, and injuries.
- Exchange information with the other driver, including their name, contact details, insurance information, and vehicle details.
- Get witness statements and contact information, as their testimony can be invaluable in proving what happened.
Get A Medical Evaluation And Follow Up On Treatment
Even if we received emergency medical care at the scene, we should see a doctor for a full evaluation. Some injuries, like concussions or internal bleeding, may take time to appear. Following our doctor’s treatment plan and keeping records of our medical expenses will help support our injury claim.
Contact A Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
At Burton Law Firm, we know that motorcycle accident cases can be complex, especially when dealing with insurance companies that may try to undervalue our claim. Our lawyer can help us navigate the legal process, gather evidence, negotiate with insurers, and fight for the compensation we deserve for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.
The steps we take immediately after a motorcycle accident can have a lasting impact on our health, financial recovery, and legal case. By prioritizing medical care, gathering evidence, and consulting a lawyer, we protect our rights and set ourselves up for a successful claim. If we’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, seeking legal guidance can make all the difference. Contact us today for a free consultation—we’re here to help.
Motorcycle Accident FAQ
Motorcycle accidents can be life-altering, leaving riders and their families facing serious injuries, expensive medical care, and complex insurance issues. Because motorcyclists are more exposed than drivers of other vehicles, the aftermath of a crash often involves unique legal challenges. To help you understand how our Raleigh, NC motorcycle accident lawyer can protect your rights and guide you through the process, here are answers to some of the questions riders ask most often.
What Should I Do Immediately After A Motorcycle Accident?
Your health comes first, so seek medical attention right away—even if you feel fine. Some injuries may not be immediately obvious. Call the police to create an official accident report, and if possible, take photographs of the scene, your motorcycle, any visible injuries, and the surrounding road conditions. Collect contact and insurance information from all drivers involved and gather names and phone numbers of any witnesses. Contact our motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as you can so crucial evidence is preserved and deadlines are not missed.
How Can A Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Help Me?
Our experienced attorney investigates every aspect of the crash to determine liability. They review police reports, witness statements, medical records, and may work with accident reconstruction experts to strengthen your claim. Your lawyer will also handle all communication with insurance companies, negotiate for a fair settlement, and, if necessary, take your case to court. This allows you to focus on recovery while a professional fights to secure the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Who May Be Held Responsible For My Injuries?
While another driver is often at fault, liability can involve multiple parties. Poorly maintained roads, defective motorcycle parts, or hazardous construction zones may also contribute to a crash. In those cases, government entities, manufacturers, or contractors might share responsibility. Our knowledgeable motorcycle accident lawyer identifies every potentially liable party to help ensure you receive full and fair compensation.
What Compensation Can I Recover After A Motorcycle Accident?
Depending on the details of your case, you may be entitled to recover damages for medical costs, ongoing rehabilitation, lost income, and reduced earning capacity. You can also seek compensation for non-economic damages such as pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. In cases involving especially reckless behavior—like a driver under the influence—punitive damages may be available to punish the wrongdoer and deter similar conduct. Our lawyer will carefully evaluate your losses and pursue the maximum amount allowed by law.
How Long Do I Have To File A Claim?
Each state sets its own statute of limitations for personal injury claims, typically ranging from one to three years. Certain circumstances—such as claims against a government entity or injuries discovered later—can affect these deadlines. Consulting our motorcycle accident attorney promptly ensures important evidence is preserved and filing requirements are met.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle crash, you don’t have to face the legal process on your own. Our Raleigh motorcycle accident lawyers are ready to answer your questions, handle the insurance companies, and fight for the full compensation you deserve. At Burton Law Firm, we are here to help.