What to Do After You Have Been in a Motorcycle Accident

In Tampa Bay, motorcycle accidents occur almost every day. Undoubtedly, this fact is hard for motorcyclists and their loved ones to accept. However, along with the rest of the state, Hillsborough County has some of the most frightening statistics involving motorcycle accidents.

As we continue to be safe on the road, knowing what to do if you or a loved one endures this unfortunate event is vital.

At Carpenter & Czelusta, we care about the safety of everyone on the road. So, we share the alarming facts about Florida motorcycle accidents and provide the steps necessary to remain calm, safe, and ready for legal action.

Continue reading to know what you need to do if you find yourself in a motorcycle accident. And remember that we are on your side.

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Motorcycle Accidents in Florida

Unfortunately, Florida has a reputation for being one of the riskiest states for motorcyclists. And whether you are a motorcyclist or not, this title our sunshine state has gained should raise alarm.

In many cases, the rider will sustain severe injuries or lose their life simply because of the design and size of these vehicles. We must protect motorcyclists and continue to prioritize their safety on the road.

However, we also need to be ready for when the unthinkable happens. To put this into perspective, we’ve provided the following Florida statistics from 2019:

• In 2019, there were 8,895 crashes involving motorcycles.
• 550 of the crashes were fatal.
• 2,072 of the crashes resulted in life-changing injuries.
• Miami-Dade County reported the most fatal motorcycle accidents.

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What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident

If you are a motorcyclist, knowing what to do after an accident can make more of a difference than you’d expect. There’s a lot to handle after such a traumatic event, from the precautions you need to take immediately following the crash to preparing for legal situations. However, being prepared will allow you to face the situation with as much confidence as possible.

Depending on the situation, the following essential steps may be done in slightly alternative orders. For example, suppose you are injured and cannot collect evidence before leaving the scene. In that case, your biggest concern will be getting to an emergency room for care.

In other words, it is best to prioritize your health and safety before anything else.

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Remain Calm and Get to Safety

If you get into a motorcycle accident, the last thing you want to do is panic and make the situation worse by letting all your emotions rush in. Remember to keep calm so that you can assess the situation.

Then, ask yourself:

• Am I in an unsafe spot on the road?
• How do I feel?
• Am I injured in any way?
• Are there other people involved in the accident?

Next, you want to get to safety. If you are in the middle of traffic, move to the side of the road.

Do not try to move your motorcycle if it is dangerous to do so. When faced with such a situation, safety always comes first.

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Don’t Remove your Helmet and Gear

The adrenaline rush people experience after being in a motorcycle accident can mask the pain caused by severe injuries. With this in mind, no matter how well you feel in the moment, do not remove your helmet and other protective gear.

Removing your gear can lead to further injury. In fact, it is best to move slowly and cautiously altogether. The event can be alarming, making a person feel like they need to rush to safety. But, keep in mind that you may be heavily injured, regardless of not feeling any immediate pain.

When you have found a safe place to rest, limit your movement and call for help.

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Call Emergency Services

Once you are safe and have assessed your situation, call the police, fire rescue, and any other emergency services you feel necessary.

Call 911

Make sure the police arrive on the scene to gather the information you need to file a police report or use for legal purposes later. They will take statements, interview those involved, look for damages, draw diagrams, and collect insurance information.

Additionally, the police will issue a citation to the driver at fault.

Contact Fire Rescue

Even if you and others involved do not claim to have any injuries from the motorcycle accident, it is crucial to call fire rescue to be appropriately evaluated. Also, they will transport anyone who needs immediate medical attention to the nearest emergency room.

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Seek Medical Attention

An immediate trip to the emergency room may be needed. And in that case, do not hesitate to go, whether you are transported by a fire rescue team or have a loved one come to your rescue. Motorcycle accident injuries can be very serious and never should be taken lightly.

Some of the most common injuries that may occur include:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Lower-extremity injuries
• Internal injuries
• Fractures
• Road rash

If you decide not to visit the emergency room after your motorcycle accident, book an appointment with a medical care professional, like your primary care doctor, as soon as possible. This is a step you surely don’t want to skip. Some injuries take time to present themselves. So, avoid troubles in the long run and seek care no matter how you feel.

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Gather Evidence and Exchange Information

Gathering evidence at the accident scene can be a little uncomfortable for some people. But, it’s a move you won’t regret making if legal issues arise. To avoid exacerbating your possible injuries, you can ask a witness to take photos of the scene.

If possible, include the following in your photographs:

• Roadway skid marks and gravel
• Road signs
• All vehicles involved
• The entire roadway
• The current traffic
• Your physical injuries or that of others involved

Additionally, if you did not call the police, you’ll want to collect important information from anyone involved in the motorcycle accident.

Be sure to collect the following:

• Full name
• Address
• Phone number
• License plate number
• Driver’s license number
• Insurance company
• Insurance policy number

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Reach Out to a Trusted Motorcycle Accident Attorney

The final step you should take after getting into a motorcycle accident is to contact an experienced accident lawyer. And when it comes to a case like this, the sooner you reach out, the better.

Speaking with a lawyer will make a difference in your insurance settlement. Commonly, insurance companies will offer a low amount. But with the help of an attorney, you can negotiate with the company to get what you deserve.

Plus, handling the legal side of a motorcycle accident can be exhausting for the person who experienced it. Get your rest, and be confident your case will be handled with care by a trusted accident lawyer.

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Contact Carpenter & Czelusta After a Motorcycle Accident

When you’ve just experienced a motorcycle accident, there’s a lot of confusion, noise, and thoughts racing through your head. However, after reading the steps outlined above, you now have the knowledge to handle the crash as confidently as possible.

And once you are safe and recovered, choose Carpenter & Czelusta to get you the legal results you deserve.

When Carpenter & Czelusta are on the case, you’ll experience care, expertise, and experience that lead to exceptional outcomes.

Give us a call if you’ve been the victim of a motorcycle accident. Carpenter & Czelusta is by your side the whole way through.

Need a lawyer? Contact Carpenter & Czelusta.

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