Being in an accident can be disorienting – especially if you were on a motorcycle when you crashed. The lack of protection makes motorcycle riders especially vulnerable to bodily injuries. It is important to know exactly what to do after a motorcycle accident in Memphis, in the minutes, hours, and days afterward. The key to securing your right to sue for damages is to work with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney such as David E. Gordon. He can provide guidance on what to do next.
Things to Do at the Motorcycle Accident Scene
There are a number of important things to do immediately following a motorcycle accident in Memphis. Unfortunately, not all of them can be done by the bikers themselves if they are severely injured. A major accident might mean that the biker is taken from the scene in an ambulance soon after the crash, delaying them from taking early steps. The health of any injured persons is the most important thing to take care of.
What if the Rider is Incapacitated?
There are some things that an injured person’s friends or family could do to prepare for a future claim. For example, they should take photographs and document other evidence from the accident scene that could be valuable in reconstructing the crash. It is important to get the names and numbers of anyone who witnessed the accident, as they can be vital to establishing that the crash was not the fault of the biker.
It is important that the biker, or someone on their behalf, contacts law enforcement immediately after the crash. The written report of an investigating police officer or highway patrol officer will be important for establishing fault, identity, and the insurance coverage of the parties. A motorcyclist should never allow the driver of an automobile to persuade them not to call the police. The drivers at fault in motor vehicle collisions often make promises that they never fulfill and they should not be trusted if they claim they will follow up later.
When Should an Injured Motorcyclist Contact an Attorney?
It is never too soon to contact a local attorney regarding what to do after sustaining motorcycle accident injuries. David provides free initial consultations where the injured biker can gain a great deal of knowledge regarding their rights. A lawyer can also explain which pieces of evidence to secure in preparation of a lawsuit.
Gathering Evidence for a Lawsuit
Pictures are the best form of evidence concerning the size of the crash. Images of the vehicles involved in the accident are valuable in bolstering a claim, as are pictures of the injury itself. If the injured person is unable to take their own photos, their family should be doing that for them.
Another good way to document losses is to keep a written record of the pain as well as what the law calls “loss of enjoyment of life.” This refers to the difficulties that are affecting a person, such as being unable to engage in activities, inability to sleep, or the feelings of isolation and loneliness that often accompany a person who must remain at home for an extended period of time. It is important to begin recording these emotions early in the process.
Talk to an Attorney About What to Do After a Memphis Motorcycle Accident
Between the injuries, the hospital bills, and the badgering from insurance adjusters, the period immediately after an accident can be scary to many people. You might not know what to do after a motorcycle accident in Memphis but David E. Gordon can guide you with his legal experience. Do not miss out on critical evidence that could help your case. Contact us now and speak with a dedicated lawyer who understands your situation.
