The moments after any motorcycle crash in San Francisco are chaotic. As a victim, you are likely suffering from serious injuries and unsure of what to do next. However, the next steps you take are important. If the accident was the fault of someone else’s negligence, a San Francisco motorcycle accident lawyer can help you file a claim for compensation. If you do not take the right steps after the accident, though, it could hurt that claim and leave you with a smaller settlement than you deserve. Below are the most important things to do after any motorcycle crash.
Check Yourself for InjuriesBefore doing anything else determine if you are injured. Often bikers break bones and have other severe injuries after a crash. Before you try to get up and take the next steps, you need to know if you are even able to, so you do not make any of your injuries worse.
Call 911In San Francisco, it is the law that you must report any accident that results in injury, death, or significant property damage. Additionally, after you call 911 a dispatcher will send not only law enforcement, but other emergency vehicles such as firefighters and ambulances. This will ensure you get the medical help you need, which should be your top priority after a crash. It is also important to get medical help as soon as possible to document your injuries and make it harder for the other party to refute your claims.
Document the SceneIf you are able to, it is important to document the scene as much as possible. Take pictures, or have someone else take them for you. Make sure to capture photos of the vehicles and the damage to them, your injuries, the license plates of the other vehicle, and your injuries. These pictures will help your motorcycle accident attorney in San Francisco prove that another driver was at fault so you can get maximum compensation.
Exchange InformationAlso if you can, exchange information with the other driver. You will need his or her name, phone number, driver’s license number, and insurance information. You will need this information so you can contact the at-fault driver’s insurance company to claim the compensation you need.
Call Your Insurance CompanyUnder your own insurance policy you may be eligible for benefits such as PIP or MedPay. This compensation can provide you with the funds you need until the other insurance company pays a fair settlement or you are awarded compensation by a jury. It is also important to call your insurance company because many insurers require it and if you fail to do so, it could cancel your policy.
Contact a San Francisco Motorcycle Accident LawyerUnfortunately after an accident, there are few people who are truly on your side. The insurance company does not want to pay you a fair settlement and the at-fault driver certainly won will not accept blame. It is for this reason that after any crash, you need to speak to a motorcycle accident attorney in San Francisco. At the Brod Law Firm, we know how to find the necessary evidence to prove fault and we take insurance companies to task to get you the compensation you need. Call us at (800) 427-7020 or contact us online to schedule your free consultation so we can discuss your case.