Steps to Take after Motorcycle Accident in Fort Worth
There are many steps individuals should take following a motorcycle accident in Fort Worth. Following a motorcycle accident, the first thing one should do is remove themselves from harm’s way by getting off the roadway and out of traffic. The person should distance themselves from anything that may cause them additional harm, such as a vehicle that is leaking gasoline, a vehicle or structure that is on fire, damaged structures that could potentially collapse, and roadside cliffs or drop-offs.
Second, individuals should check themselves and others for injuries and call 911 immediately. Very few motorcyclists walk away from accidents without injury. Some of the most serious injuries are not readily identifiable. As such, a person should seek medical attention even if they believe they are not hurt. Many times people do not think they are injured at the scene. The pain sets in a couple of days later. It is always a good idea to immediately get checked out even if one thinks they are not injured.
Additionally, it is important that one contacts an experienced motorcycle accident attorney quickly after the accident to ensure that they do nothing to jeopardize a potential claim. An attorney knows how to answer the insurance company’s questions because they deal with them frequently. When one hires a diligent attorney, all communication regarding their injuries between the injured party and the insurance carrier ceases. The communication goes directly to the law firm and protects the injured person. The attorney tries to maximize the settlement amount. Speak to a knowledgeable attorney to learn about the steps to take after a motorcycle cycle accident in Fort Worth.
What to do After Calling 911 and Seeking Medical Attention
Immediately following a motorbike crash, individuals should call 911 and emergency services. Law enforcement may be needed to control traffic, record details of the accident, and determine whether immediate legal action is required.
It is important to not say anything that can make the situation worse or indicate culpability. For example, the person should not apologize, argue with other parties involved in an accident, or assign blame for the accident. They should not physically engage others in a hostile manner and not intentionally inflict additional damage to property.
Exchanging Relevant Information
Following an accident, those involved should not leave the scene of the accident. It is important that they remain at the site of the accident long enough to exchange relevant information with all parties involved and law enforcement officials. At a minimum, they should obtain the following details:
- Property damage information in the form of photographs or written descriptions
- Insurance and contact information for all parties involved including witnesses
- Identifying information for the vehicles involved such as the make, model, and year
Collecting Evidence
If possible, those involved in a motorbike crash should take photos at the scene. Pictures taken at the scene should show the damage to vehicles or other property involved provides evidence of the details of the accident. It is important to capture information about the surroundings, such as street signs or nearby buildings. The individual should not do this if it puts them or others at risk of injury or causes further property damage.
A skilled attorney could work with experts in motor vehicle accident investigations to determine the causes of the crash and identify who is responsible for the injuries.
Witness Statements
Finally, the individual should obtain information from any witnesses who are willing to provide it. This could include a name and a written description of what the person saw. If there is a legal dispute regarding the events of the accident, witness accounts of the accident could be useful in arguing their case.
They should not pressure witnesses to say or do anything they do not want to do. Some might be willing to make a statement to police but may not want to testify in court or be harassed by insurance companies. At a minimum, one should take the voluntary witnesses’ names and phone numbers so they can be contacted at a later time by a seasoned motorcycle accident attorney.
Contacting Insurance Companies
A person should contact their insurance company as soon as they are able to do so after a motorcycle accident in Fort Worth to inform them of the incident. The individual should provide the insurance company with the relevant information they collected at the scene, such as names of the parties, the make and model of the vehicles involved, and the names and contact information of any witnesses.
If the insurance company asks about their injuries or damages to their vehicle, it is important to tell them that they will furnish the details when the property damages are assessed, and the injuries are evaluated by a doctor. This helps ensure that the insurance company does not underestimate the compensation to which their insured is entitled to receive.
A diligent motorcycle accident attorney could negotiate with the insurance carriers on behalf of injured bikers to make sure they receive full compensation.
Uninsured Motorist
When someone is not at fault for their accident, being uninsured does not make them unable to recover compensation. The liable party and their insurance company are financially responsible for the person’s damages, regardless of their insurance coverage situation.
An attorney can pursue the responsible party and the insurance company for damages when third party insurance coverage is in place. They may seek damages for current and future medical bills, property damage due to the collision with their motorcycle, lost wages, reduced earning capacity, pain and suffering, and punitive damages.
If both parties lack insurance, they need to pursue compensation from the driver directly by filing a lawsuit against the driver. Depending on the other driver’s financial situation, an attorney may be able to recover compensation for the damages.
Reach Out to a Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today
After an accident, a person needs the help of an experienced law firm that understands the complexities of dishonest insurance carriers who take advantage of motorcycle riders who do not know how to fight their tactics. An attorney who represents motorcyclists injured by the negligence, recklessness, and carelessness of other motor vehicle drivers has the skills and resources to gather support of evidence to prove the other party’s negligence and their responsibility for the accident.
An experienced motorcycle accident attorney could compile evidence, evaluate the damages, obtain all the necessary documentation, negotiate with the insurance companies, and advocate on your behalf. Call today to learn about the steps to take after a motorcycle accident in Fort Worth and how to protect your rights.