Author: Jay Howard
Many people enjoy riding motorcycles. Most motorcyclists learned how to drive their bikes safely and how to share the road with other vehicles. In addition to knowing how to safely operate a motorcycle, motorcyclists should know what to do in case an accident occurs. Anyone injured must seek medical attention immediately, especially the motorcyclist. In addition, motorcyclists should never make a statement to a claims adjuster, sign any releases, or accept any settlement agreements until they speak to an attorney. If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, you should contact an experienced attorney who can help you recover compensation for your injuries.
8 Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident in Georgia
There are several steps you should take after being involved in a motorcycle accident. The following are eight steps to take after a motorcycle accident in Georgia:
Contact the Police and File a Police Report
Bias against motorcycle drivers exists; therefore, you can combat the negative bias against you by taking proactive steps after an accident. A police report ensures that you tell your side of the story. This forces the other driver to tell the police their version of events. The police reports will be used to determine the comparative negligence of the accident.
Report All Injuries and Symptoms
Report your injuries and symptoms to the police, the EMTs, and the firefighters, if they arrive. No matter how severe or mild, having a doctor document your injuries will be important to build your case.
Seek Medical Attention
Depending on the severity of the accident, you may not be able to call 911. Someone else might call 911 so that you can be taken to the hospital. If this is the case, make sure you get a police report at the hospital.
Do Not Give a Statement to the Other Side
Do not give a statement to the insurance adjuster or to a lawyer that does not represent you. You should not sign and cash a check from an insurance company without talking to a lawyer first. The insurance company could be offering you a lowball settlement that requires you to waive your right to sue for more damages.
Never Sign Anything without Talking to a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
You are most likely in shock and disoriented immediately after a motorcycle accident; therefore, you should never sign a legally-binding contract after an accident. An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer will help ensure that you are fully informed before you sign anything.
Obtain a Copy of Your Police Report
Contact the police department where your accident happened to get a copy of your report. Or, you can locate it online. In Georgia, most police reports can be found at www.BuyCrash.com.
Attend All Medical Appointments
Delayed pain and delayed symptoms of injuries are a real possibility following a motorcycle accident. A person might be cleared from the hospital on Monday, and that same person could experience recurring headaches and a sore spine by Sunday. It is important that you attend all medical appointments and follow-up appointments in case you have delayed symptoms. Insurance adjusters will argue that you are not really injured if you were cleared and then miss your follow-up appointments.
Keep Excellent Records
Keep a record of all X-rays, copies of prescriptions, receipts for over-the-counter medications, lab services, physical therapy, medical documents, and all doctor’s visits. Note the date and time of each service provided and how much you are charged. Keep an active and running pain log for any discomfort, fatigue, tenderness, or inconveniences. You also should write a Memorandum for Awareness to create a record of how you are feeling and how the accident has impacted your daily life and relationships. Make certain you have photographs of all of your injuries. Finally, keep a copy of all of your medical bills. Keeping such vigilant records is daunting, but this will help you in the event of a lawsuit regarding the accident.
Contact the Experienced Motorcycle Accident Attorney at Tabbaa Law
At Tabbaa Law, our Georgia motorcycle accident lawyer provides attentive, client-focused representation to injured victims. If you were injured in a crash, our attorney may be able to help you maximize your settlement or verdict. To schedule a free consultation, call (770) 370-7881 or complete our contact form.
Motorcycle Accidents
