Having a bad day
So, you’re cruising down the highway on your trusty motorcycle when suddenly, WHAM! You’re involved in an accident.
It’s a terrifying situation, but there are some important steps you can take to make sure you’re okay and determine fault and get the compensation you may deserve.
No one expects to get into an accident. But they do occur when we least expect it. This is why it is absolutely critical to always make sure that you are wearing proper riding gear. Helmet, gloves and boots can be your best allies when something unexpected happens.
Stay Calm
It’s important to keep your wits about you. Motorcycle accidents can be incredibly stressful and scary but try your best to stay calm and assess your injuries. If you’re badly hurt, try not to move. Wait for emergency services to arrive. If you can move, try to get yourself and your bike to a safe location on the shoulder or curb away from traffic. Whatever you do, never argue with the other drivers or become confrontational. The less you say, the better. Focus on making sure that anyone with an injury gets help as quickly as possible.
Get Help
Once you’ve ensured your safety, it’s time to call for help. If you can, call 911 as soon as possible. Even if you feel fine, it’s important to get checked out by a medical professional to make sure you don’t have any hidden injuries. It’s better to be safe than sorry, and a thorough medical exam can ensure you receive the proper treatment. The effects of an injury such as whiplash for example can take several days to manifest. Helmets with a quick release strap such as a HamrHead will help paramedics safely remove your helmet without causing trauma.
Gather information.
Now that your safe you should exchange contact and insurance information with the other party involved in the accident. Take note of their name, phone number, and insurance policy number or take pictures of their license, registration and insurance ID card. You’ll also want to get the contact information of any witnesses who may have seen the accident occur. Write down the time and exact location of the accident. Make a note of the weather and road conditions. Write down any other information you can think of so that when you file the police report you can be as accurate as possible.
Snap some Pics
While you’re waiting for help to arrive, take photos of the accident scene. Take pictures of any damage to your motorcycle, as well as any injuries you’ve sustained. These photos can serve as crucial evidence if you need to file an insurance claim or go to court.
Replace any damaged gear
Motorcycle helmets are crash helmets and should be treated as such. They are not meant for numerous impacts, they are good for one crash only.
If your helmet is damaged in any way you should thank it by replacing it with a new one. Cut the neck straps of the damaged helmet so that it cannot be used again by anyone. Make sure that you replace it with a DOT certified helmet such as the world’s smallest and strongest HamrHead DOT helmet. Never trust your life to a novelty helmet.
Contact your insurance company
Provide them with all the information you’ve gathered, including photos and witness contact information. Your insurance company will begin the claims process and provide you with guidance on what to do next.
If you’ve sustained serious injuries or believe you were not at fault for the accident, consider contacting a personal injury attorney. An attorney can help protect your rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Remember, the aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be overwhelming, but it’s important to take things one step at a time. Take care of yourself first and foremost, and then start gathering information and filing claims. With the right resources and support, you can survive the physical, emotional and mental challenges of an accident no matter how severe.
