Motorcycle accidents can happen in an instant, leaving riders shaken, injured, and unsure what to do next. Riders are more exposed than car drivers, which can make injuries more serious and the legal implications more complex.
If you’re involved in an accident in Atlanta or anywhere in Georgia, the actions you take immediately afterwards can affect your recovery and ability to secure maximum compensation.
This article outlines the essential steps to take if you’re ever involved in a crash.
Ensure Safety First
After a motorcycle crash, your priority is safety. If possible, move yourself and your motorcycle out of traffic. Turn on hazard lights or set out cones to alert other drivers.
Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Adrenaline can mask some injuries, like concussions, internal bleeding, or spinal damage, so symptoms may not always show right away. Even if you feel fine, see a medical professional immediately. Medical records serve as crucial evidence for any compensation claim.
Call the Police and File a Crash Report
Crashes involving injury, death, or property damage over $500 must be reported in Georgia. The police report documents key facts about the accident and is often critical when negotiating with insurers or pursuing compensation.
You or your attorney can request a copy of this report later through the BuyCrash portal.
Gather Evidence at the Scene
The moments after an accident are vital for preserving evidence. If you can:
- Exchange driver information: Document full names, contact details, insurance information, and vehicle details, including license plate numbers, model, and color.
- Record witness information: Collect names and phone numbers of anyone who saw the crash. Eyewitness accounts can be invaluable in your motorcycle accident claims process.
- Photograph the scene: Take lots of pictures of your motorcycle, other vehicles, road conditions, skid marks, traffic signs, and any visible injuries.
Limit What You Say
In the confused chaos after an accident, it’s easy to say something that could be interpreted as admitting fault. Even a simple “I’m sorry” could be used against you. Be polite with other drivers and law enforcement, but stick to the facts you know and don’t speculate about how the crash happened.
Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Georgia motorcycle accident claims can be complex, especially when insurers attempt to assign blame to riders. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney can:
- Secure evidence and witness statements
- Communicate with insurance companies on your behalf
- Accurately calculate damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering
- Represent you in negotiations or trial, if necessary.
Acting quickly is critical. Georgia’s statute of limitations allows two years from the crash date to file a personal injury claim.
Notify Your Insurance Provider
Report the accident promptly to your insurance company. Your motorcycle accident lawyer can manage communications with the insurer and protect you from costly mistakes.
Keep Detailed Records
Document everything related to the accident, especially:
- Medical care: bills, prescriptions, and treatment plans
- Lost wages: documentation from your employer
- Property damage: repair estimates or receipts
- Pain and suffering: personal journals describing your physical and emotional recovery.
Strong documentation strengthens compensation claims and supports your lawyer’s case.
Be Mindful of Sharing on Social Media
Insurance companies may review your social media for posts that contradict your claim. Avoid sharing details about the accident or your injuries until your case is resolved.
Follow Your Medical Treatment Plan
Attending all appointments and following your prescribed treatments protects your health and reinforces your claim. Gaps in treatment can weaken your legal case and be used against you by insurance companies.
Why Quick Action Matters
The hours and days following a motorcycle crash are critical. Evidence can disappear, witnesses may forget details, and insurance companies may attempt to undervalue claims. Prompt medical care, thorough documentation, and early legal consultation give you the best chance of securing maximum compensation.
Checklist: 10 Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Crash in Georgia
Here’s a summary of our practical motorcycle crash checklist:
- Ensure safety.
- Seek medical attention.
- Call the police and file a report.
- Gather evidence at the scene, including photos and witness details.
- Don’t admit fault.
- Contact a specialist motorcycle accident lawyer.
- Notify your insurance company.
- Document everything.
- Be mindful of social media.
- Follow your medical treatment plan.
Keep these steps in mind if you’re ever involved in a motorcycle accident in Georgia; it can make all the difference in both your recovery and your case outcome.
