There is nothing quite like the thrill of riding a motorcycle on the open road. Doing so is a great way to get around town, see the countryside and enjoy time with your friends. However, riding a motorcycle is also a dangerous activity. In fact, in 2017, 5,172 motorcyclists lost their lives in fatal accidents across the United States. In addition, 89,000 suffered serious injuries, often resulting in a lifetime of pain, suffering and disability. Since these crashes are so common, it is important to understand what to do immediately after a motorcycle accident in Tallahassee. After all, the steps you take can have a significant impact on your future. As such, these five steps can help you tremendously when filing a motorcycle accident claim for compensation.
Step One: Call 911
Immediately after your motorcycle crash, it is important to call 911. This will alert the police and emergency medical teams about your accident. Once they arrive at the accident scene, the police will fill out an accident report. Also, the medical staff will assess your injuries. Having medical records and a police report will help you and your attorney establish liability and seek compensation for your injuries.
Step Two: Seek Medical Help
Even if you do not believe that you are hurt, it is important to seek immediate medical attention. For example, during a crash, your body produces adrenaline. This adrenaline often masks the symptoms of injuries and can make you feel as if nothing is wrong. Thus, you should always have a medical professional conduct a thorough examination. Receiving prompt medical attention can help you avoid serious complications and a lifetime of suffering.
Step Three: Collect Information and Evidence
If you are able, then exchange information with the other drivers involved. This includes obtaining driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers and insurance information. Also, if any people witnessed the accident, then be sure to get their contact information as well.
Additionally, gathering evidence is important after a crash. Therefore, you should snap pictures of the accident scene, and include any photos of damage to your motorcycle.
Step Four: Follow Your Doctor’s Advice
After a motorcycle accident in Tallahassee, you should follow all of your doctor’s orders carefully, attend each follow-up appointment and ensure that your medications are filled on-time. When negotiating a motorcycle accident claim, an insurance company will look at your doctor’s records and patient compliance. Any missed appointments or unfilled prescriptions might suggest that you are not as injured as you claim.
Step Five: Call a Tallahassee Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Although motorcycle crashes often cause lifelong injuries and disabilities, insurance companies notoriously offer deliberately low settlement offers. Because of this, you need an experienced Tallahassee motorcycle accident lawyer fighting for you. He or she can prevent insurance companies from taking advantage of you while you recover.
Contact Your Tallahassee Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
Did you get hurt in a motorcycle accident in Tallahassee? At Milles Law, your Tallahassee motorcycle accident lawyers know how difficult life is after a motorcycle crash and want to help. Contact attorney Eric Milles today at (855) 553-3310 or fill out a confidential contact form to schedule a free consultation. There are many reasons why injured accident victims in Tallahassee and the surrounding areas choose him as their legal representative. Come discover how he can help you put the pieces of your life back together after a serious crash.