What To Do After A St. Petersburg Motorcycle Accident
Michael Babboni
Motorcycle Accidents
In 2019, 8895 motorcycle accidents happened in Florida alone. Of these 550 were fatal, 2072 resulted in incapacitating injuries, and 5647 resulted in other injuries. These are facts that motorcyclists must face and be careful not to be part of. In any case, motorcyclists should know what to do after a motorcycle accident.What You Should Do Following A Motorcycle Accident
Get Medical Help
Motorcycle accidents are known for causing serious injuries, especially on the motorcyclist. It is, thus, imperative that the first concern of anyone involved in a motorcycle accident is to call 911 and get help for those injured.
Document The Accident
Take photos and videos of the accident if possible. You would want to get pictures of the causes of the accident, such as potholes, construction sites, or uneven rods, and other factors that may disappear in time, such as skid marks. These will serve as your proof later on when you claim insurance benefits. You may also type down your account of what happened so you don't forget them. Additionally, if there are witnesses, gather their contact details in case you need them.
Cooperate With The Police Officer
Do not be afraid to speak with the police officer. Tell them the facts as you remember them. You may also inform the officer if you think that the other driver was drunk or impaired in any other way if you truly believe this may be so, but make sure to do this politely and without blatantly accusing the other party.
You don't need to worry about your statement to a police officer being used against you in a lawsuit. What you communicate with a police officer if you were in an accident is considered confidential information in Florida.
Collect The Other Driver's Information
If you collided with another vehicle, make sure to get the other driver's contact information, driver's license number, and auto insurance information.
Be Careful With What You Say
It is best to minimize communication with the other party or their passengers after an accident. You would want to avoid blaming them or getting into an argument so that you can still resolve any problem amicably afterward.
One more thing you should be careful of is apologizing and admitting fault. Remember that Florida is a no-fault state, so damages and medical costs sustained by the other driver and their passengers should be covered by their Personal Injury Protection (PIP). If you unwittingly admit fault, the other party may use that to unfairly sue you for damages.
Save Your Clothes, Equipment, And Bike
Your clothes and protective equipment will most likely be damaged after a motorcycle accident. Even so, do not throw them away. These could still be used as evidence when you file your claim.
Get Checked Out By Your Doctor
If you were not transported to the emergency room or urgent care because you did not sustain serious injuries, you should still get yourself checked out by your doctor for other injuries that were not immediately or physically evident. Not only will your doctor's records serve as evidence for your insurance claim, but they will also prevent minor injuries from worsening over time.
Get A Motorcycle Attorney
So many things could go wrong after a motorcycle accident. When you’re still recovering from injuries, it may be hard for you to deal with them all. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney will help you deal with your insurance claims to make sure that you get what you deserve.