Speakers often get called on to talk about life changing events that have happened to them. One very common event that we can talk about is when we have been involved in an accident. These types of speeches can be compelling and can draw a large audience. You just have to know how to to talk about this topic.
Did you know nearly 5500 fatal motorcycle accidents happen each year? Even the most careful motorcyclists are sometimes victims of unfortunate event. Motorcycle accidents lead to severe injuries, frustrations, hefty costs, or death. Motorcycle accidents are 35 times more likely to happen than car accidents. The statistics are alarming.
No one wants to be part of motorcycle accidents. But you can’t ignore that the accidents happen every day. The experience is confusing, and it’s normal not to think rationally if you’re a victim.
What do you do if you’re in motorbike accidents? Read this article to find out.
What Happens at the Accident Scene
Before leaving the scene of the accident, there are essential things to take care of. Find out what you need to do immediately after a motorcycle accident.
1. Ensure Safety for Yourself and Others
A motorcycle accident is harmful enough, and you don’t want more danger. Get off the road or out of traffic. At the accident scene, some situations can cause you more harm.
- Vehicles or motorcycles leaking gasoline are dangerous
- Structures on fire can inflict more damages
- Cars or structures at risk of collapsing
- Roadside cliffs or drop-offs./li>
The above incidents can cost your health or life. You don’t want to stick close to find out. If you’re in a position to help others, get off the dangers.
So, what next? Check yourself and others for injuries. If you or others got hurt in the accident, make sure to call 911.
Note: Some of the injuries are not readily identifiable. Don’t assume being fine. Seek medical attention for certainty.
Injuries from motorcycle accidents are fatal. Don’t gamble with your life or that of others by hesitating to make the call.
2. Contact Law Enforcement
In case of property or physical damage, contact law enforcement. It’s essential to get the police to the scene as soon as possible. Why?
- Account for the accident incident and record statements
- Control traffic if need be
- Determine whether further legal action is necessary.
Information by the police officers is resourceful when building a case later. Collect the names of the officers and budge numbers.
3. Document the Surroundings
If you’re in a position to, it’s essential to document the surroundings. Take note of important information about the accident. Information like where, when, and how is vital to take note. This includes;
- Location of accident
- Road conditions
- Speed limits
- Weather and lighting
- The directions of travel for any of the vehicles involved.
Take pictures and videos of the surroundings if possible. Make sure to take photos from various angles. It offers a proper interpretation of the incident and contextual evidence.
You must be wondering why pictures and documenting are necessary, right? The information is evidence of the accident and can help your insurance company or lawyer in the case.
Note: Don’t take pictures or videos if there’s more risk or if it causes more damage and harm.
4. Talk to Witnesses
In any legal matter, eyewitnesses are essential. If possible, try to interview the witnesses of the incident.
Record their information on an audio recorder or by your phone or by writing down on a piece of paper. The incident is still fresh in the minds of the witnesses. It’ll make the information provided more valuable and relevant.
Request for their contacts in case you or your lawyer needs to interview them later.
5. Don’t Leave the Scene
It’s vital to stay at the site of the accident as long as possible. Why?
- It’ll accord you the chance to interact with other parties and witnesses.
- Ensure exchange of any relevant information with law enforcement.
While at the scene, collect the following information:
- Property damage
- Insurance contact for both parties
- Information on the motorcycle or car involved. The report includes the make, model, and year among other relevant information.
Things to Avoid at an Accident Scene
Motorcycle accidents are confusing, fearful, and life-threatening. Asking you to remain calm sounds like satire but it's crucial. Don’t say things that can make the situations worse.
- Don’t engage in arguments with other parties at the incident
- Don’t blame others for the accident
- Don’t engage physically or with hostility
- Don’t intentionally cause additional damage to property.
The above scenarios can get you on the wrong side of the law.
Never Admit Fault!
It’s human nature to apologize when you bump into each other. If you’re part of a motorbike accident, you may apologize without thinking.
It’s essential to be cautious of what you say. Why?
Note: Statements at the accident scene can cost you significant consequences in a court. Accidents are jarring; you may not remember things you did or said during the incident.
Avoid getting yourself in trouble by taking fault before fully digesting the scenario. The exact cause of an accident is not apparent immediately after a crash.
Things to Do Upon Leaving the Motorbike Accidents Scene
As hard as the situation may seem, you need to handle the aftermath of the incident. Make sure respective parties cover your financial, health, and legal welfare.
1. Medical Checkup
You need the confirmation that your health is not at risk. Follow up on necessary treatment or medication plan.
Make your safety a priority to avoid future complications that are easy to avoid now.
2. Contact Your Insurance Company
Soon after the accident, contact your insurance company. Provide all the relevant information.
Don’t give information about injuries or damages if you don’t have full insight. If asked by your agent, request for time for doctors and mechanics comprehensive assessment.
3. Contact Your Lawyer
Many lawyers specialize in motorbike accident cases. It’s important you acquire assistance from a good lawyer while dealing with the situation. Why do you need a lawyer?
- Avoid being on the wrong side of laws on mopeds
- If the other party wrongly accuses you
- An insurance company denies the claim
- If negotiations with other party sound malicious.
Wrap UP
Motorbike accidents are the worst nightmares. They threaten your life, safety, and even constitutional freedom.
You don’t want the worst turn of events like imprisonment or death, do you? Learn how to handle the aftermaths of an accident appropriately from our blog.