When considering what to do after a motorcycle accident, it is important to act quickly, contact emergency services, and seek medical attention to protect your health and the integrity of your claim. Knowing the right things to do immediately after an accident can significantly impact your health, safety, and the outcome of an insurance claim or lawsuit.
Working with an experienced Los Angeles motorcycle accident lawyer can provide the dedicated support and guidance you need during this challenging time.
What to Do Immediately After a Motorcycle Accident
A motorcycle accident can be a sudden, shocking event. If you crash, your first priority should be on your safety and the safety of others. Here is what to do immediately after a motorcycle accident:
- Move to a safe place: If possible, move your motorcycle and yourself out of the flow of traffic to a safer location. Be sure not to leave the scene, though.
- Check for injuries: Assess yourself for injuries. If serious injuries are suspected, do not move the injured person unless absolutely necessary.
- Contact authorities: Immediately report the accident to emergency services. Stay at the scene and wait for the arrival of police and emergency medical personnel.
- Exchange information: Get the other driver(s) contact and insurance information.
- Document evidence: Take photographs and video of the accident scene showing the position of vehicles involved, skid marks, road conditions, and any nearby traffic signs and signals.
- Collect witness information: Get contact details from any witnesses to the accident.
Be sure not to say anything after your motorcycle accident that could be considered admitting fault. Discuss the crash with law enforcement and no one else. What you do immediately after a motorcycle accident is invaluable in building a strong case to help you get the compensation you deserve.
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Why Seeking Medical Attention is Critical After a Motorcycle Accident
Even if you do not feel seriously injured, get a medical evaluation immediately after a motorcycle accident. The adrenaline surge experienced during and immediately following a crash can mask the true extent of your injuries. Many injuries, including internal bleeding, concussions, and traumatic brain injuries, may not be immediately obvious.
A medical professional can thoroughly examine you, identify hidden injuries, and provide appropriate treatment, significantly improving your recovery and preventing long-term complications. Medical records are crucial evidence in a motorcycle accident claim. They document your injuries and their connection to the accident, which is essential for establishing liability and pursuing fair compensation.
Prioritizing your health and well-being is paramount. Seeking medical attention makes sure that you get the necessary care to recover fully. Your health and well-being are invaluable.
Potential Injuries Following a Motorcycle Accident
While not legally mandated, seeking immediate medical attention after a motorcycle accident is strongly recommended. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to be seriously injured than drivers of passenger vehicles. Common injuries include:
- Head Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), concussions, skull fractures
- Neck Injuries: Whiplash, spinal cord injuries
- Road Rash: Severe skin abrasions and lacerations
- Disfigurement: Scars, permanent disfigurement
- Bone Injuries: Broken or fractured bones in various parts of the body
- Amputations: Loss of limbs
- Paralysis: Partial or complete paralysis
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Maximize Your Settlement With Legal Support
An experienced motorcycle accident attorney provides invaluable guidance and support throughout the settlement process. We help assess your case, evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of your claim to determine the best course of action. After this, we will present our demand letter to the at-fault party’s insurance company, negotiating to ensure you receive a fair settlement.
We will meticulously prepare and file your lawsuit if necessary, ensuring all deadlines and legal requirements are met. Sometimes, the sheer threat of filing a lawsuit encourages insurance companies to reconsider settling your claim. However, we will represent you in court if your case proceeds to trial and provide strong representation to protect your interests.
By choosing experienced legal representation, you can increase your chances of recovering the full compensation you deserve for your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. Select a law firm that represents injury victims with case results showing their success. The Ryan Law Group has secured millions for personal injury cases like yours.
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Deadlines for Your California Motorcycle Accident Claim
Delaying legal action after a motorcycle accident can significantly alter your ability to recover compensation. Evidence can degrade over time, witness memories may fade, and crucial deadlines can be missed. The sooner you file, the sooner you may receive compensation for your medical bills and to support you through your recovery.
California Code of Civil Procedure § 335.1 establishes a time limit for pursuing compensation for your injury after a motorcycle accident. This legal deadline, known as the statute of limitations, generally provides a two-year window to file a lawsuit. While the standard timeframe is two years, specific situations may allow for a longer deadline.
If your initial injuries were not properly diagnosed or treated within the two-year window, the court may grant you an extension. Or, if you were a minor at the time of the crash, the deadline may be paused until you reach the age of 18. Consult with an experienced California motorcycle accident attorney from The Ryan Law Group to determine if you are eligible to pursue compensation and to make sure that your claim is filed within the appropriate timeframe.
Contact The Ryan Law Group After a Motorcycle Accident for Help
When you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, you need an advocate who will put your needs first. We prioritize our clients and provide personalized legal guidance and support. We will fight aggressively to protect your rights and help you recover the compensation you deserve.
Learn more about The Ryan Law Group and how we provide high-caliber representation to personal injury victims throughout Los Angeles and Southern California. Schedule a free case consultation with our experienced team. Get started pursuing your fair compensation today.
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