If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, it is important that the at-fault party be held liable for their actions. This might come in the form of being responsible for the damages they caused. If you want to increase the chance that you will maximize your jury award or settlement, keep reading to learn how. Remember to contact Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 for a free legal consultation with an experienced personal injury attorney.
File a Police Report
If there were any injuries and/or there was property damage of more than $950, then you are required by law to contact the police after an accident. We recommend calling 911 from the scene. If there are no serious injuries or property damage, you can call the non-emergency number. If you do not contact the police from the scene, then you should go to the police department and file a report soon after.
Get Medical Care
Even if you believe that you have not suffered a serious injury, you should go to the doctor. This not only helps protect you from injuries you might not have noticed, but it also begins a medical paper trail that can be important for a personal injury case. Whatever instructions the doctor gives you, follow them. Once again, this is important for your own recovery and because it can help build a stronger personal injury case.
Take Photos
If it is safe to do so, you should take photos at the scene of the accident. Take pictures of the vehicles that were involved in the accident, skid marks that might have shown up, and any other evidence that could be important. If there are street signs, stop signs, traffic lights, or other signs, then you should take photos of them as well.
Get Statements from All Witnesses
Ideally, you would get a statement from each witness at the scene of the crime. This is when they will best remember the accident and have the most details. If it is not possible to get statements, ask for their names and contact information.
Keep Your Helmet and Your Clothing
If you were wearing a helmet at the time of the accident, then you likely know that once a helmet is in an accident, it should be thrown away – but not this time. You should certainly never wear it again, but you should keep it as it might be needed for evidence. Likewise, due to the fact that motorcycle riders have essentially no protection, your clothing can hide bits of evidence that could be useful.
If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident and require a free legal consultation, then we advise you to contact Law Offices of Fernando D. Vargas at 909-982-0707 right away. We are standing by to find out exactly how we can help you.
