Motorcycle accidents can be quite different than typical auto accidents. Since motorcycles are smaller vehicles, the lack of visibility for other drivers on the road can cause extremely dangerous situations for motorcyclists. The injuries that result from motorcycle accidents are often more severe than injuries from other types of car accidents. Some possible injuries include traumatic brain injury, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, and road rash, to name a few.
We know that a motorcycle accident is an extremely difficult situation, which is why we want to share with you the ways you can ensure you will receive the maximum compensation from the at-fault party. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, the most important thing you can do to maximize your case is to establish liability. There are a few key things you need to establish liability:
1.Call the police
The most important thing to do after any accident is call the police. This step is legally required in Georgia if anyone involved in the car accident sustained injuries as a result. However, even if it appears as if no one has been injured, call 911 immediately. Not only should you file an accident report with the police, but you should also seek medical attention.
After you’ve spoken to law enforcement, who will arrive on the scene with an ambulance, get to the nearest hospital. Never assume you have emerged from the incident unscathed, regardless of the absence of pain or discomfort. Let the medical professionals assess your condition and provide appropriate care. Not only will this prevent further injuries, but it will also start a paper trail for a possible personal injury case.
2.Take photos of the scene and any damage done.
Use your phone to take pictures of all vehicles involved in the collision from every angle to provide a critical piece of evidence an insurance company cannot dispute. Should you consult with a personal injury attorney who recommends filing a lawsuit, these images will offer valuable evidence to support your case.
In addition to taking photos of your car and all other vehicles involved, it is important to photograph the accident site, including any skid marks created by rapidly decelerated vehicles. Use the voice recording feature on your cell phone or call yourself and leave a voicemail detailing the events leading up to the accident. You can use this recording to help keep events fresh in your memory.
3.Collect witness statements.
Often, eyewitnesses of the accident will stop to offer assistance. Take a moment to identify any eyewitnesses and ask them to describe what they saw. If they are willing, get their name, address, phone number, and email. Their testimony could be invaluable to you later.
4.Don’t let the driver leave before the police arrive.
Even if the other driver gives you their name, phone number, and insurance, do not let the driver leave the scene until the police have arrived. They could have given you false information or might change their story later when the police go to talk to them. Keeping all parties involved at the scene of the accident until the police arrive is always the best form of action.
5.Save your helmet and any other gear to use as evidence.
Remember to save everything that could be used as evidence to prove your case. This is especially important when it comes to your helmet. The helmet provides proof that you were wearing it during the accident, so the other driver can’t put the blame for the injury on you. When it comes to proving your case, everything is evidence so save as much as you can.
6.Keep a journal of your injuries and document your recovery journey.
There is so much more to your recovery than what your medical records will show. Keeping a journal that documents your road to recovery provides evidence not just of your injuries, but the pain and suffering and lost wages that occurred because of the accident. Documenting this can increase the compensation you receive, so be thorough in your report of what you have gone through.
Those six things will help prove who is at fault in the accident and establish credibility in your case. The other important thing you need to do to maximize your case is to establish your injuries. Motorcycle accident injuries are typically more severe than most other auto accident injuries. When establishing your injuries, you want to make sure you are presenting your damages in a way the insurance company can understand. If you don’t seek medical treatment, the insurance company will assume you were not injured in the accident. You should always get a comprehensive medical examination immediately after the accident to use as evidence in your case.
You should also keep records of any lost wages, property damage, or any pain or suffering that you’ve been through. These claims can also be included when seeking compensation for your accident. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, call Greathouse Trial Law today, so we can fight for the compensation you deserve.
