Motorcyclists are 22x more likely to end up dead in an accident compared to car drivers. In 2022, more than 82k motorcyclists were hurt, and 6,218 killed. If you enjoy riding on two wheels, it’s vital that you know what to do in the event of an accident.
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Assess the Severity of Your Injuries
Identifying the extent of your injuries will determine what actions you need to take next. Minor scrapes and bruises may just require some first aid when you get home. More serious injuries like heavy bleeding, suspected broken bones, or a possible concussion means you need to get medical attention right away.
Call A Motorcycle Accident Lawyer for Help
If your injuries are anything more than very minor, you should call for emergency help immediately.
Help needed could range from ambulance transport to the ER to roadside assistance getting you and your bike out of a dangerous spot.
Move Safely Out of Danger
If you can walk or drag yourself, move to the shoulder or sidewalk away from oncoming traffic. This reduces the likelihood of getting hit by another passing vehicle while you wait for first responders. If you cannot move safely, stay put and rely on reflectors, flares or signal flags to make sure other vehicles see you.
Exchange Information
If any other vehicles or riders were involved in the motorcycle crash, try to exchange basic insurance and contact details while waiting for emergency responders. This makes the claims and liability processes easier later on. Get the names, phone numbers, license plate numbers and insurance details of the other parties involved whenever possible. Try to at least identify the make and model of the vehicles, a description of the drivers, and witnesses who are able to attest to how the accident happened.
Get Checked Out Thoroughly
Once emergency personnel arrive, comply with their recommendations for medical transport and treatment.
Even if you feel relatively fine after the motorcycle accident, signs of internal bleeding, organ damage or head trauma may not be obvious. Around 21% of riders not wearing a helmet suffer brain injuries. The risk is reduced to 15% with a helmet.
Always get thoroughly examined and avoid trying to “tough it out” with self-treatment. Spinal or neurological issues may only start to show symptoms hours later. Having your accident and injuries carefully documented will also be important if you need to pursue legal claims, insurance or disability benefits down the road due to lingering issues. Follow doctor recommendations closely about activity restrictions, signs to watch for and any rehab that may help you fully heal after motorcycle crash injuries. Being as proactive as possible, even after relatively minor motorcycle accidents, can help prevent complications and long-term health issues.
Talk to a Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Aaron Tillmann, an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer in Portland, suggests that if you have been injured in an accident, you should talk to an attorney to understand your legal rights and options.
While motorcycle accidents are usually more serious than car crashes, they are preventable with careful riding. Don’t be one of the 26.2% of riders who skip wearing a helmet because your chances of dying are far higher when you crash.
