What to do After a Motorcycle Accident in California
If you just need support from a California motorcycle accident lawyer, get in touch with us for a free consultation.
Otherwise, let’s dive into what you need to do next…
Here’s exactly what to do after a motorcycle accident in California
Being in a motorcycle collision is tough and can leave you feeling shaken and unsure of what to do next, especially in a busy state like California, where accidents can happen quickly.
Knowing what to do right after the accident as a motorcyclist can protect your rights and help you get the compensation you need.
1. Ensure your safety and call 911 immediately
The first thing to do following a motorcycle accident is check if you’re safe and see if anyone else needs help. If you can move safely from the scene of the accident, get out of harm’s way and call 911.
Even if the injuries seem minor, it’s important to have emergency services assess the situation. Reporting the accident to local authorities ensures that it is documented, which will be important if you file a personal injury claim.
2. Seek immediate medical attention
Whether or not you feel hurt right away, seeking medical assistance is essential. Going to a doctor also helps document your injuries, which is key when you’re trying to prove they came from the accident.
3. Take photos of the accident scene
If you’re able, take some photos of the scene, the vehicles involved, and any injuries. These pictures can be used as evidence to help show who was at fault and could help your lawyer build a stronger case.
4. Gather contact information
Ensure you have the driver’s name, license number, and insurance details of the other driver involved in the accident. If there are witnesses around, get their information too.
5. File a police report
When the police arrive at the accident scene, make sure to provide them with an accurate account of what happened, but avoid making any admission of fault. The accident report will serve as an official record of the accident, which your attorney can use when pursuing a personal injury claim.
6. Notify your insurance company
After the accident, let your insurance company know what happened as soon as you can. Be cautious when speaking with insurance adjusters and avoid speculating on fault, as anything you say may impact your insurance claim.
7. Contact a California motorcycle accident attorney
- Understand your legal rights
- File a claim with your insurance company
- Pursue compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering
Reach out to a Torrance motorcycle accident attorney at Feher Law today for a free consultation, and let us guide you through the process of securing the justice and compensation you need to move forward.
What to do after a minor motorcycle accident?
Even in a minor motorcycle accident, it’s important to take the right steps to protect yourself and any potential claims. Here’s what you should take after a motorcycle accident:
- Check for injuries and move to safety: Make sure no one is hurt. If possible, move your motorcycle out of traffic to a safer spot.
- Exchange information: Swap contact details, including driver’s license and insurance information, with the other driver. If there are witnesses, gather their info as well.
- Document the accident: Take photos of any damage, the accident scene, and any visible injuries. This can be essential for insurance claims.
- Notify authorities and insurance: Report the accident to local authorities to create an official record, even if it’s minor. Contact your insurance company to file a report and provide the necessary details.
- Consult a motorcycle accident attorney: Even for minor accidents, having an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can help if any disputes arise about who was at fault or if your insurance company is difficult to work with. They can help you protect your legal rights and guide you through the legal process if needed.
What not to do after a motorcycle accident
Knowing what not to do after a motorcycle accident is just as important as understanding the steps to take. Making mistakes in the aftermath can hurt your chances of getting fair compensation or even lead to legal trouble.
Here are some common missteps to avoid:
Don’t admit fault
After an accident, it’s easy to say “I’m sorry” or take the blame without knowing all the details. Even if you think you might be at fault, avoid making any statements that could be interpreted as an admission of guilt.
Don’t neglect calling the police
You might think you can skip calling the police for a minor accident, but that’s a mistake. A police report is important for documenting what happened, and it can be important for dealing with insurance companies and proving your claim later on.
Don’t skip medical attention
Ignoring medical attention can lead to bigger health issues later and may hurt your chances of getting compensation if injuries surface later on. Always get checked out by a medical professional, even after a seemingly minor accident.
Don’t forget to collect evidence
Take photos of the accident, the damage, and any visible injuries. Also, gather contact information from everyone involved and any witnesses. This evidence will help support your claim and protect your rights.
We have a San Bernardino motorcycle accident lawyer on hand to help you gather the evidence needed for your claim.
Don’t rely on the insurance company alone
Insurance companies might not have your best interests in mind. It’s smart to consult with a personal injury lawyer to ensure you get the compensation you deserve before agreeing to anything.
What to expect after a motorcycle accident with regards to the authorities and insurance Companies
1. Interacting with the Authorities
Immediately following a motorcycle accident, local authorities will likely arrive at the scene to assess the situation and ensure public safety. They will:
- Take your statement: Be honest and factual in describing the motorcycle crash. Avoid admitting fault, as doing so could harm your case.
- Prepare a police report: This report will include essential details such as witness statements, weather conditions, and the officer’s observations. It’s a vital document for your insurance claim and any potential legal proceedings.
- Issue any citations: Depending on the situation, citations might be issued to one or more parties involved. These can play a role in determining liability.
It’s essential to obtain a copy of the police report as soon as it’s available, as this will be important for both your insurance claim and any legal action you pursue.
2. Dealing with Insurance Companies
After the accident, you will likely need to interact with your insurance provider and the at-fault party’s insurer. Here’s what you should expect:
- Your insurance company: Notify your insurance provider of the accident as soon as possible. Be prepared to provide them with the police report, photos of the accident scene, and any medical documentation of your injuries. Your insurance company may conduct an investigation, and cooperation is necessary.
- The at-fault party’s insurer: The other party’s insurance company may reach out to you to discuss a settlement. It’s important to remember that their goal is to minimize the payout. Avoid providing recorded statements or signing anything without consulting your attorney first.
- Claim processing: Insurance companies will assess damages to your motorcycle and any injuries you’ve sustained. This process can take time, especially if there are disputes regarding fault or the extent of damages.
3. Potential Roadblocks
Insurance companies are not always quick to offer a fair settlement. You may encounter tactics like:
- Lowball offers: Insurers may attempt to settle quickly for less than your claim is worth, hoping to close the case before you understand the full extent of your injuries.
- Delayed claims: Some companies may delay processing your claim to pressure you into accepting a lower settlement.
- Denial of liability: They might argue that you were fully or partially at fault, which could reduce or eliminate your compensation.
In these situations, having a skilled attorney from Feher Law by your side is vital to ensure that your rights are protected and that you are fairly compensated for your injuries and damages.
If you’re having a hard time with this process or need help with your claim, get in touch with a Huntington Beach motorcycle accident attorney today. Our experienced attorneys are here to support you and make sure you get the compensation you deserve.
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