Motorcycle accidents can happen in an instant and can lead to serious, life-changing injuries. For better or worse, the steps you take in the moments that follow can shape what happens next and have a substantial impact on any legal claims you may have. Although Michigan law allows you to seek compensation for your injuries, the insurance companies and at-fault drivers rarely make it easy.
If you’re not sure what to do after a crash, here’s what our Sterling Heights motorcycle accident attorneys recommend you do.
The Aftermath of a Michigan Motorcycle Accident
Safety and Reporting
Your priority after a Sterling Heights motorcycle accident is your safety and the safety of others at the scene. Move out of the roadway if you can do so safely. If anyone is hurt, call 911 right away. Police will respond to the scene and prepare an accident report, a document that will be important if you file a claim later on.
You are required to remain at the scene and provide your contact and insurance information to the other party. Failing to do so can have serious legal consequences under Michigan law.
Collect Information and Document the Crash
The details you collect at the scene can help support your claim down the line. If you are able, exchange information with the other driver, including names, addresses, insurance details, and license plate numbers.
Photograph the accident scene, your motorcycle, the other vehicle, visible injuries, and any road hazards or traffic signs. If anyone witnessed the motorcycle accident, ask for their contact information. Sometimes, a witness can offer critical evidence that supports your version of events.
Be Careful About What You Say
Emotions often run high after a crash, but be cautious about what you say. Do not admit fault or apologize, as these statements could be used against you later on.
When speaking with police or with anyone else at the scene, for that matter, stick to the facts. Avoid speculating about what happened or downplaying your injuries.
Get Medical Attention
You should seek medical attention as soon as possible after leaving the scene. Not every injury is immediately obvious, as some can take hours or days to appear. A prompt medical evaluation creates a record that links your injuries to the accident, which is crucial if you need to make an insurance claim.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Michigan is a no-fault state for auto insurance, but the rules are a bit different for motorcycles. Your legal options may include filing a claim against the at-fault driver’s personal injury protection (PIP) policy, filing a lawsuit against them, or recovering benefits from the Michigan Assigned Claims Plan (MACP).
In any event, report the crash to your insurance company right away, but be careful about giving recorded statements or accepting an early settlement offer prior to receiving legal advice.
Track Your Expenses and Injuries
Keep a record of all expenses related to your Sterling Heights motorcycle accident, such as medical bills, repair costs, lost wages, and anything else out of pocket. You should also save receipts and correspondence from doctors or insurers, as this documentation will help if you need to prove your losses later on.
Contact Our Sterling Heights Motorcycle Accident Lawyers for a Free Consultation
The insurance companies aren’t on your side after a motorcycle accident, and they’ll do whatever they can to minimize the value of your claim. Speaking with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney in Sterling Heights can help you level the playing field and determine what your case might be worth. From there, your personal injury lawyer can handle all of the communications, gather evidence, and negotiate for a fair settlement so that you can focus on your recovery.
Contact our Sterling Heights motorcycle accident attorneys from Khamo Law at (248) 466-0606 to schedule a free consultation today.