In the event of a motorcycle accident, the last thing you want to do is panic. While this can be challenging, particularly since your adrenaline is likely charging through the roof, and it is normal to be confused, agitated, or overwhelmed. However, when you know what to do in the immediate aftermath, staying calm is going to be considerably easier.
To that end, there are several things that you are going to want to do if you are involved in a motorcycle accident while biking on the streets or highways of Kingston, Ottawa, and Eastern Ontario.
Given the intensity of even the smallest motorcycle accident, it is understandable to be a little overwhelmed. What you are going to want to do is deal with the situation on a variety of different levels. Not only will this give you something to focus your energies on, but it will also give you the ability to deal with the situation in a proactive manner. The steps you take now are extremely important when it comes to the rest of your case.
Look for Injuries
Naturally, the first thing you are going to want to do is check yourself for injuries. You’re also going to want to check others for injuries. Call 911. Make sure those who are injured receive medical attention. Even if no physical injuries are immediately apparent, some symptoms take a while to present. Call for medical attention in either case to be on the safe side and start a document trail.
Get Off the Roads
If it’s possible to do so, have all vehicles involved in the accident moved off the roads. Even if the vehicles can’t safely be moved, all people involved should move away from traffic if able.
Exchange Information
You’re going to need to exchange information with everyone who was involved in the accident. This includes names, phone numbers, addresses, driver’s license information, license numbers, and insurance information for any driver involved in the accident.
Call the Police
More often than not, the police will arrive regardless of this step. Nonetheless, if there are any injuries or property damage, you’re going to want to call the police as quickly as possible.
Become Aware of your Surroundings
This can be difficult, depending on the circumstances, but you’re also going to need to develop a certain degree of situational awareness. This can include where the accident occurred, the weather conditions at the time of the accident, posted speed limits, lighting, and anything else you might think is pertinent. Use your cell phone to write down any observations you have about the incident – you may also find it helpful to use the record/memo feature on your smartphone to capture a voice recording of your memories and use the camera/video feature to gather evidence of the crash scene, damage your motorcycle, injuries sustained etc.
Talk to Witnesses
Try to get as much information as possible from any witnesses who were on the scene. Record their contact information in your phone.
Do Not Admit Fault
In many situations, the specific cause of the accident is unknown. You do not want to admit that you were at fault. Do not agree to someone else’s version of what happened. Do not apologize. What you are going to want to do at this point is call your lawyer.
Call your Personal Injury Lawyer
This is the final and arguably most significant step. Call Ontario Injured (Zuber Brioux) to protect your legal rights following a motorcycle accident. They will help you get the compensation you deserve so you can move on with your life.