Unfortunately, motorcycle accidents are common in California. In 2021, there were 565 motorcyclist fatalities on California roads. In San Francisco, there were 408 motorcyclists injured and killed in traffic accidents in 2020. Motorcycle accidents are devastating and can lead to severe injuries and costly medical bills.
After a motorcycle accident in California, it’s crucial to follow the right steps to ensure your safety. Read on to learn what to do after a motorcycle accident.
1. Get to Safety
If possible, move yourself and your motorcycle to a safe, well-lit location to help prevent further accidents or injuries. If your bike has a hazard warning light switch it on to warn other road users.
2. Call The Police
No matter how minor the accident may seem, it’s essential to involve the police. The authorities will create an official report of the incident. This evidence is crucial in an insurance claim. It includes important information including the following:
- The date, time, and location of the incident
- The contact and insurance information of the parties involved
- Eyewitness information and statements
- The road conditions
- Diagrams and photos of the accident scene
- Any citations issued
3. Seek Medical Attention
It’s essential to get a medical evaluation after a motorcycle accident. Even if you think your injuries are minor, it’s crucial to seek medical attention promptly.
Some injuries might not be immediately apparent, and symptoms can be masked by an adrenaline rush. A medical professional can assess your condition and provide necessary documentation. Ensure you document your injuries throughout your recovery and follow your prescribed treatment plan.
4. Exchange Information
Exchange the following information with the other party involved in the accident:
- Full name
- Phone number
- Address
- Insurance policy number
- Driver’s license
- License plate number
Also, ensure you gather contact information from any witnesses present at the scene and ask if they are willing to provide a statement.
5. Gather Evidence
Collect evidence that can help establish liability. This could include photographs and videos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, broken glass, skid marks, and road conditions. Also, ensure you take pictures of injuries sustained.
6. Document Your Injuries
Keep a record of your injuries, including photographs, medical reports, doctor’s appointments, notes, and prescriptions. This documentation will be important when seeking compensation for medical expenses.
7. Don’t Negotiate With the Other Party
Avoid settling the matter with the other party at the scene and do not apologize or admit fault. The true extent of damage or injuries may not be apparent right after the accident, and the driver may deny liability. The other driver’s insurance company may try to reach out and ask for a written or recorded statement.
Avoid discussing your injuries and the accident details with the other driver’s insurance company. The insurance company does not have your best interests in mind and may use your words against you. Insurance adjusters are well-trained to find reasons to minimize the motorcycle accident settlement or deny the case entirely.
8. Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with accurate and factual information about the incident. However, don’t deal with the insurance company alone. It’s best to consult with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer who will protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve. A personal injury lawyer will facilitate all communication with the insurance companies on your behalf.
9. Don’t Post on Social Media
Refrain from posting about the accident on social media. Information shared online could potentially be used against you during legal proceedings.
10. Contact a California Motorcycle Accident Attorney
If you sustained injuries in a San Francisco motorcycle crash caused by someone else’s negligence, it’s best to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney. At Golden State Accident Lawyers, we provide you with the legal advocacy you need to win your motorcycle accident case. Most motorcycle accident cases don’t go to trial, however, we are well-prepared to take your case to court, if necessary. We have a proven track record in recovering the maximum compensation available.
What a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Does
A motorcycle accident lawyer provides expert legal services including the following:
Legal Counsel: A motorcycle accident lawyer specializes in local laws and will offer expert legal advice tailored to your specific situation.
Thorough Investigation: Motorcycle accident injury lawyers will investigate the accident thoroughly, collect compelling evidence, speak to witnesses, and establish liability.
Aggressive Negotiation: Your attorney will negotiate with insurance companies and the other party’s legal representation to secure fair compensation for your injuries, damages, and losses.
Representation in Court: If a settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer will represent you in court and fight for the compensation you deserve.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer?
Most motorcycle accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means they only get paid if they win your case. Here’s how it generally works: Your lawyer will receive a percentage of the settlement or court award as their fee. If they don’t win your case, you won’t owe your lawyer any fees for their legal services. Contingency fees can vary, but they often range from 30% to 40% of the total amount recovered. However, it’s important to clarify the fee structure with your lawyer before proceeding.
Damages Motorcycle Accident Victims Can Recover
An injured motorcycle rider can seek compensation for damages in a motorcycle accident claim.
- Medical bills
- Ongoing medical treatment
- Lost wages
- Property damage
- Loss of consortium
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Pain and suffering
Our California Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Are Here to Help
If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident in California, you don’t have to navigate the legal process alone. At Golden State Accident Lawyers, our team of experienced motorcycle accident lawyers is dedicated to helping injured motorcyclists seek fair compensation.
We understand the complexities of California traffic laws and the challenges that motorcyclists may face after an accident. We aim to alleviate the stress and uncertainty motorcycle accident victims experience, allowing them to focus on their recovery.
Our San Francisco personal injury law firm has the expertise and resources to deal with large corporations including insurance companies. Our motorcycle accident attorneys maintain a 99% success rate and have recovered millions of dollars in compensation for our clients. Call us today for a consultation.
