While any accident on the road can be dangerous, motorcycle accidents are especially dangerous because motorcycles have no barriers between the rider and the outside world. Cars at least offer some buffer like glass, metal doors, and airbags, between drivers and other cars or objects. Motorcycles offer light body armor, leather, and helmets, but not every rider wears them. There are several steps to take if you have been injured on a motorcycle that involves emergency actions, legal steps, and determining whether you need a Tennessee motorcycle accident lawyer.
Emergency Actions
The first step to take after experiencing a motorcycle accident is to take a moment to assess yourself and your surroundings. You need to make sure that you are not severely injured, then you need to make sure you are not in any direct line of traffic. Incoming cars may not be able to stop in time and could cause you serious and potentially fatal injuries.
Common motorcycle injuries include fractured ribs, broken arms or legs, traumatic brain injuries, and spinal cord injuries. Call 911 if you suspect you or anyone else involved has one of these injuries.
Legal Steps to Take
If you are not seriously injured, start documenting the incident while you wait for emergency services to arrive. This means writing down the other driver’s contact and insurance information, writing down what happened, and taking pictures of vehicle damage and your injuries.
When police arrive, ask them for a copy of the police report, which will be a key piece of evidence if you need to take this incident to court. Also be sure to write down what witnesses have to say. This will support your defense in court.
When to Hire a Lawyer
You should hire a lawyer when you suspect or have direct evidence that another driver caused your wreck. This will give you a chance to obtain compensation for the medical expenses of your injuries, lost wages, and psychological suffering from the accident. Some people are able to receive a fair settlement by filing a personal injury claim to the auto insurance company. If this works for you, then this can be an effective route.
However, not all insurance companies will offer a fair settlement and other companies may outright deny your claim. If this happens, then seeking legal help from a motorcycle accident lawyer can make life a lot easier. If you take this route, your lawyer will collect and organize what you documented at the accident and may take further steps to expand this documentation. Your lawyer may interview witnesses and request copies of your medical records for proof of your injuries.
