What to do after being involved in a motorcycle accident
If you’ve been in a motorcycle accident, it’s essential to take several immediate and follow-up steps to ensure your safety, well-being, and protect your legal rights. Here’s a concise list of steps to follow:
Check for Injuries: First, assess your own injuries and those of any passengers or others involved. Seek immediate medical attention for anyone injured.
Call 911: Report the accident to the police. Even if injuries appear minor, having an official report can be crucial for insurance claims and legal matters.
Move to Safety: If possible, move yourself and your motorcycle to a safe location, away from traffic and any potential danger.
Exchange Information: Exchange contact and insurance information with the other party or parties involved. Include names, phone numbers, addresses, driver’s license numbers, and insurance details.
Gather Evidence: If it’s safe to do so, take photos of the accident scene, your motorcycle, and any visible injuries. Note the position of vehicles and any road hazards.
Witness Information: Collect contact information from any witnesses of the accident. Their statements may be valuable later.
Contact an Attorney: If you sustained significant injuries or believe someone else was at fault, consult with a motorcycle accident attorney to understand your rights and explore potential legal action.
Obtain the police report: Lexington traffic accident reports and collision reports can be obtained from the Lexington Police Department online for a $10 fee, as a walk-in for a $5 fee, or by mail for a $5 fee. If a Kentucky State Police Officer responded to the collision, you can obtain the report from the State Police Department through an open records request.
Notify Insurance: Contact your insurance company to report the accident. Provide them with the necessary details and cooperate with their investigation. Be concise but be cautious of what you say. Insurance companies can and will use anything you say against you when negotiating your claim.
Medical Evaluation: Even if you don’t have immediate or obvious injuries, it’s crucial to seek medical evaluation. Some injuries may not be apparent right away.
Document Injuries: Keep detailed records of your medical treatment, including doctor’s visits, prescriptions, and any recommended therapies.
Preserve Evidence: Keep all documents related to the accident, including medical records, repair estimates, and correspondence with insurance companies and legal professionals.
Follow Medical Advice: Adhere to your doctor’s recommendations and attend all necessary medical appointments. This can help with your recovery and strengthen your case.