Motorcycles have unique characteristics that allow riders to enjoy the feeling of the open road. The trade off for this is that they don’t have the protection of a vehicle’s frame. This reality can lead to catastrophic injuries, and sometimes fatalities.
Understanding what to do if you’re involved in a motorcycle crash is critical. It’s best to know what to do before you’re in this situation because otherwise, adrenaline, shock and the injury may make it difficult for you to make rational decisions in the moment.
Immediately after the crash
Immediately after the crash, you need to contact emergency services. This will send out a police officer who can make out a report of the crash. You can also ask for emergency medical care for any injuries you have.
If possible, take pictures of the crash scene, including damage to the other vehicle and your motorcycle. These can come in handy if you opt to pursue a compensation claim. You should also get contact information for the other driver and any witnesses to the crash.
Even if you don’t have medical care at the scene, it’s a good idea to have an evaluation done. It’s possible that adrenaline is causing you not to feel the injuries you suffered, but you’ll start to feel them after that wears off.
Battle for compensation
Getting medical care after a motorcycle crash can be costly, especially if you’re dealing with a serious injury like those involving your spinal cord or brain. If the other driver was being negligent, you have the option of filing a claim to recover the damages associated with the crash.
In Michigan, you have three years from the date of the crash to seek compensation. Because there are so many misconceptions about motorcyclists and wrecks involving them, it’s best to have legal representation that understands the specifics of the situation at hand.
The biggest hurdle in these claims sometimes is combatting the misconception that motorcyclists are unsafe lawbreakers. It’s critical that you get started on your case as early as possible so you can get everything set and filed on time.
