Motorcycle accidents can be shocking and overwhelming, especially on New York’s busy roads. Motorcycles do not offer the same protection that cars and trucks do, which often means that motorcyclists face greater risk of serious injuries. Knowing what to do right after a motorcycle accident can help protect your health, rights, and potential for compensation. Acting quickly and thoughtfully can make a significant difference in how your situation is handled, both on the day of the accident and later, if you decide to pursue a claim. Let’s go over some important steps to take after a motorcycle accident in New York. At, Friedman & Ranzenhofer, PC, we are here to guide you through the legal process and help you navigate the complexities of your case.
Robert Friedman
Michael Ranzenhofer
Sam Alba
Justin Friedman
John Dracup
Ensure Your Safety and Move to a Safe Place
After a motorcycle accident, safety should be your first priority. It’s important to make sure you are out of harm’s way. If you are able to stand and move, carefully check your surroundings. Look for a safe spot away from traffic. If your motorcycle is in a dangerous position on the road, only attempt to move it if you can do so without risking further injury. If you cannot move your motorcycle safely or feel too hurt to do so, leave it where it is. You are more important than any vehicle.
If you are seriously hurt or feel dizzy, try to remain as calm as possible. Sit down, take deep breaths, and stay still until help arrives. Safety comes first in any accident, and making sure you are safe helps keep the situation from becoming worse.
Call for Help Right Away
Calling 911 is one of the most important actions you should take after a motorcycle accident. Reporting the accident to the authorities ensures that police officers and emergency responders will be dispatched to the scene. Law enforcement officers can assess the situation, direct traffic if needed, and create an official accident report. This report can be useful later if you decide to file an insurance claim or lawsuit.
If you or anyone else involved in the accident appears to be injured, request an ambulance. Even if injuries seem minor, getting checked by medical professionals as soon as possible is the best way to catch any potential issues. Some injuries are not immediately visible, and symptoms can take hours or even days to appear. By calling for help, you are taking the first step toward ensuring your safety and health.
Document Everything at the Scene
While waiting for the authorities to arrive, take the time to document the accident if you feel well enough. The more information you can gather, the better it will be for any future insurance claims or legal cases. Start by taking photographs or videos of the accident scene, your motorcycle, any other vehicles involved, and any visible injuries you have. Make sure to capture details such as skid marks on the road, road signs, and the surrounding area.
Speak with any witnesses who may have seen what happened and get their contact information. Witnesses can provide valuable information, especially if the accident involved other vehicles. If the accident involved another driver, gather their name, contact information, and insurance details. Taking these steps can provide evidence for your case, whether it is for your insurance company or for a legal proceeding.
Seek Medical Attention Promptly
Even if you feel fine after a motorcycle accident, it is very important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Motorcycle accidents often lead to injuries that do not show symptoms right away, such as head trauma, internal injuries, or whiplash. A medical examination can reveal these hidden injuries and allow you to start treatment before symptoms worsen.
Your health and recovery should always come first. By seeing a doctor, you are also creating a record of your injuries, which may be valuable in an insurance claim or legal case. Keep copies of any medical reports, bills, and notes from your doctor. These documents can serve as evidence of your injuries and the medical expenses related to the accident.
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Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company
After you’ve received medical attention, it’s a good idea to report the accident to your insurance company. Contact your insurance provider and explain what happened in the accident. Be clear and honest, and avoid exaggerating any details. Provide them with any evidence or information you gathered at the scene, such as photographs, the police report, and contact information for witnesses.
When dealing with insurance companies, it is important to remember that they may try to limit the amount of compensation they pay out. For this reason, you may want to speak with an attorney before accepting any settlement offers or giving recorded statements to an insurance adjuster. An attorney can provide guidance on how to protect your interests and avoid accepting a settlement that is less than what you deserve.
Stay Off Social Media
After an accident, it may be tempting to post about it on social media. However, it is best to avoid sharing any details of the accident online. Insurance companies and lawyers may look at social media to find information they can use to reduce your claim. Even seemingly harmless posts or pictures can be taken out of context and used against you.
Instead, keep your communications private. Share details only with trusted friends, family, and your attorney. Avoid posting photos of your injuries, the accident scene, or anything that could be interpreted as a comment on your physical or mental state. Social media privacy is a good practice to follow until your case has been fully resolved.
Keep Track of All Accident-Related Expenses
A motorcycle accident can lead to numerous expenses beyond the immediate damage to your motorcycle. Medical bills, physical therapy, medication, and even lost wages from missed work can quickly add up. It is important to keep track of all these expenses and to save any receipts or bills related to your accident.
Documenting your expenses not only helps you stay organized but also provides clear evidence of the financial impact the accident has had on your life. This information will be helpful if you pursue a claim for compensation. An attorney can use these documents to calculate the amount you may be entitled to receive.
Consider Speaking with an Attorney
A motorcycle accident can lead to serious and complex legal issues, especially when injuries are involved. Speaking with an attorney can help you understand your rights, explore your options, and determine whether you have grounds to seek compensation. An attorney can handle communication with insurance companies, negotiate for fair compensation, and guide you through the legal process.
Navigating the aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be challenging, and legal professionals can offer support and guidance. They can explain how the law applies to your specific case, help gather additional evidence, and advocate on your behalf. Many personal injury attorneys offer free initial consultations, so you can discuss your case without any financial commitment upfront.
Follow Your Doctor’s Orders Carefully
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, following your doctor’s instructions is critical to your recovery. Attend all recommended appointments, complete prescribed treatments, and follow any restrictions or advice your doctor provides. Ignoring medical advice can not only impact your recovery but may also harm your chances of receiving compensation.
Insurance companies and opposing attorneys may argue that failure to follow medical advice shows a lack of genuine injury. By following your doctor’s orders, you demonstrate that you are taking your recovery seriously. Keep a record of your treatments, appointments, and any difficulties you encounter in your recovery.
Stay Patient and Persistent Throughout the Process
The aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be frustrating and exhausting. Legal proceedings, insurance claims, and medical treatments may take time to resolve, which can test your patience. However, it is essential to stay persistent and remain committed to your recovery and any legal actions you decide to pursue.
Recovery takes time, and reaching a fair settlement may involve negotiation and persistence. While the process can be slow, sticking to your plan and following through on all recommended actions can make a significant difference. Having patience can also help you make better decisions, especially when facing settlement offers or other legal steps.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident in New York, Friedman & Ranzenhofer, PC can provide support and legal guidance. Recovering from an accident is challenging, but our team is here to help you pursue the compensation you deserve. We can assist you with filing claims, negotiating with insurance companies, and ensuring your rights are protected every step of the way. Contact Friedman & Ranzenhofer, PC today to discuss your case and learn how we can assist in your recovery journey.