“I was in a motorcycle accident,” is a frightening thought. Knowing what to do immediately after and proceeding from a motorcycle accident is vital for being made whole and recovering whatever damages were incurred.
Once you have made sure that you’re safe and called 911 for help, you need to document the accident scene and get in contact with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney.
While these initial actions will help protect your rights and pave the way for recovery, the whole process can become a bit trickier than you might anticipate.
Let’s go over what you need to do next following a motorcycle accident.
Alternatively, our Savannah motorcycle accident lawyers are available to guide you on your next steps
Here’s Exactly What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Georgia
Experiencing a motorcycle accident and handling the ensuing fallout can be overwhelming. However, knowing the right steps to take can make a significant difference in how the events after a motorcycle accident unfold.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you should do if you ever become a motorcycle accident victim.
1. Seek Immediate Medical Attention
After the accident, getting your health checked by emergency professionals should be your top priority. Even if you feel unhurt, seek medical care because some injuries like internal bleeding, whiplash, or concussions may not be immediately apparent, or even remain hidden until well after the events of the accident.
Especially if you were seriously injured, having a well-documented medical evaluation of any injuries you’ve sustained will be invaluable when going through legal proceedings with insurance companies.
Also, delaying medical attention can not only worsen your injuries but also hurt your chances of securing fair compensation for any accident-related expenses. Since insurance companies look for prompt medical evaluations as evidence of injury, you stand to have a stronger case by seeking immediate medical care.
2. Contact Law Enforcement and File a Report
Of paramount importance is to report the accident to law enforcement.
Law enforcement will arrive at the accident scene to document the details and help determine fault.
A motorcycle incident report created by the police will be a critical piece of evidence in your case. You will need it if you will file a claim with your insurer or seek compensation for damages.
This is important when dealing with at-fault accidents, as the insurance company and courts will rely heavily on the police report to establish responsibility.
Filing a motorcycle incident report also ensures that important details, such as road conditions, weather, and witness statements, are properly documented. This report is vital in disputes regarding fault or liability, as it presents an impartial third-party view of the accident.
3. Gather Evidence at the Accident Scene
While waiting for the police to arrive, if you’re able, gather as much evidence as possible from the accident scene by taking photos and videos of the damages to your motorcycle, the other vehicle involved, and your surroundings. This evidence can include skid marks, road conditions, or anything else that may help build a clear picture of the collision.
Collecting contact information from witnesses is also important. Their statements can support your claim and verify what happened in case there are disputes later.
It’s also a good idea to capture images and videos of any traffic signals, signs, or other road markers that could provide context for the accident scene. Additionally, if there are any surveillance cameras nearby, note their locations in case they recorded the incident.
The more detailed your evidence, the harder it will be for others to dispute your account of the accident.
4. Contact a Lawyer at Jamie Casino Injury Attorneys
Once you’ve reported the motorcycle accident, your next call should be to an experienced motorcycle accident attorney from our law firm. Motorcycle accidents often result in complex claims and negotiations, so getting proper legal representation as soon as possible ensures your rights are fully protected.
One of our skilled motorcycle accident lawyers from Jamie Casino Injury Attorneys can help you pursue the fair compensation you deserve, which may include medical bills, property damage, lost wages, and accident-related expenses.
Our team’s experience in Georgia’s legal system will help you understand your options and pursue the best possible outcome.
Additional reading: should i get a lawyer for a motorcycle accident
Find out why hiring an experienced Augusta motorcycle accident lawyer from our law firm means you don’t have to fight the aftermath of a motorcycle accident alone
What Not to Do After a Motorcycle Accident
While you should understand the steps to take following your motorcycle accident, you should also be aware of what not to do in the time after the incident. Here’s what to avoid after being involved in a motorcycle accident.
Don’t Leave the Scene of the Accident
Leaving the scene of the accident before the police arrive can weaken any claims you may have for compensation and have serious legal consequences. Since fleeing the accident scene is a crime in Georgia, you run the risk of incurring fines, license suspension, or even jail time.
Insurance companies may argue that your departure implies guilt or that you were trying to avoid responsibility. Stay at the scene until law enforcement has arrived, documented the incident, and collected all relevant information.
Don’t Admit Fault
It’s natural to feel shaken or confused after an accident, but never admit fault at the accident scene. Determining fault is a legal process that should be left to professionals.
Admitting fault at the scene can damage your chances of getting the compensation you need for medical and accident-related expenses.
Admitting fault prematurely can also limit your legal options if new information arises later. Remain calm and focus on gathering evidence while the authorities and insurance companies determine fault based on the facts.
Don’t Neglect Medical Attention
Forgetting to seek medical attention can lead to complications both in your recovery and in your legal case. Some injuries, such as internal bleeding or a concussion, might not show symptoms right away.
Failing to document any of your injuries promptly can reduce the compensation you receive for medical bills and lost wages. Always get checked by a doctor, even if you think you’re fine.
Delaying medical treatment can also give the insurance company grounds to argue that your injuries are unrelated to the accident. Also, untreated injuries may worsen over time, making your recovery process longer and more costly.
By getting an immediate medical evaluation, you not only protect your health but also ensure that you have the necessary documentation to support your claim for fair compensation.
What to Expect After a Motorcycle Accident with Regards to Authorities and Insurance Companies
After a motorcycle accident, both the authorities and insurance companies will need detailed information about the incident. Law enforcement will take your statement and document the accident in their official report.
On the other hand, insurance companies will assess your claim for damages and medical costs. Be prepared for negotiations, especially if you’re seeking compensation for medical bills, property damage, and lost wages.
Keep in mind that our legal experts will do all the negotiations on your behalf so you don’t have to worry. Your job is to focus on recovering from the crash. Speaking with your insurance company is our job.
Generally, the insurance company may attempt to make an offer lower than what you deserve. This is why you should have the necessary documentation and a competent attorney from our firm to protect your legal rights.
Speak to a Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today!
Our team of expert motorcycle accident lawyers is here to help you get fair compensation for your injuries, damages, and accident-related expenses.
If you’ve been in a motorcycle accident, contact us today for a free consultation at 912-214-3123 and 800-735-2643.
FAQs
What happens when you leave the scene of an accident in Georgia?
Leaving the scene of an accident is considered a hit-and-run, which is illegal in Georgia. Since you could face fines, legal penalties, and even jail time, always stay at the scene until law enforcement arrives and an official report is filed.
Failing to do so could severely impact your claim or ability to seek compensation for damages. It may suggest guilt or an attempt to avoid responsibility.
How much compensation do you get for a motorcycle accident?
The average motorcycle accident settlement is from $20,000 to $250,000 in our experience.
The amount of compensation varies based on the injuries and damages sustained, often including medical bills, repair costs, lost wages, and pain and suffering. An experienced attorney can help you determine the appropriate compensation based on your case.
In some cases, you may also be entitled to compensation for future medical treatments, rehabilitation, and long-term care. Plus, if the accident resulted in a permanent disability, your compensation amount could increase.
Consulting with a skilled motorcycle accident attorney ensures that all aspects of your losses are accounted for.
Is Georgia a no-fault accident state?
No, Georgia is not a no-fault state. This means that since the party at fault for the accident is responsible for covering the costs of damages and medical bills, determining fault is vital for securing compensation.
Because Georgia follows an at-fault system, insurance companies will carefully investigate the accident to determine who was responsible. If you’re found to be less than 50% at fault, you can still pursue compensation under Georgia’s comparative negligence laws.
This makes it even more important to gather evidence and consult with an expert motorcycle accident attorney to ensure that fault is accurately determined.