What to Do After a Motorcycle Crash

It can be difficult to do right after you have come within inches of death, but the most important thing to do if you’re involved in a motorcycle accident in Colorado is to remain calm. It goes without saying that you will probably need to retain the services of an experienced Colorado personal injury attorney. Your attorney is going to need a lot of information that you will need to gather at the accident scene, which is why keeping your cool, however difficult it may be, is crucial.

Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident

Following these steps will make your personal injury attorney’s job easier, and improve your chances of a favorable outcome.

• Call 911, even if you barely got a scratch and feel fine. You may not experience symptoms associated with head trauma or other serious life-threatening injuries until well after the accident, when it may be too late to save your life. Another reason to call 911 is to have the police fill out a police report. The police report will help your attorney establish fault and can help you get monetary damages for your pain and suffering.

• If you are able, get driver information from all other parties involved. Get license plate numbers, names, contact numbers and insurance information of each motorist involved in the accident. Refrain from discussing liability or any other facts pertaining to the accident until the police arrive. If you can, take picture of vehicular or property damage and get a copy of the police report.

• Contact your insurance company, even if you are not fault. Most insurance companies require policyholders to notify them of an accident even if you are not fault, and they can deny any claims should you fail to do so.

• Lastly, contact an experienced Colorado personal injury. Even if you feel a lawsuit may not be feasible, it is in your best interest to know what your legal options are. Your attorney can help you negotiate with insurance companies and help you obtain the medical assistance you may need. Your attorney can also make sure you do not miss any deadlines if you decide to file a claim.

What if the Accident Involved Only One Motorcycle?

If you were injured in a motorcycle accident involving just your own vehicle, your personal injury attorney will determine if another party can be held liable, or if your accident was the result of mechanical failure (i.e., brake or tire failure), in which the manufacturer may be liable. The attorney can also determine if improper roadway design contributed to your accident, in which case you would definitely have a case.

What a Personal Injury Attorney Can Do For You

Motorcyclists have little protection from serious injury if they are in an accident. Colorado does not have a helmet requirement, so motorcyclists in an accident are more prone to serious head injuries as well as leg injuries (i.e., torn ligaments, broken bones, road rashes) and spinal cord injuries that can be permanently debilitating. The capable personal injury attorneys at the O’Connell Law Firm, P.C., will fight to get you the compensation you are entitled to for your pain and suffering. Contact the firm for a free initial consultation to discuss your claim and explore all options available to you.