Motorcycling is an activity that not only serves as a way of transportation, it is one of the few modes of transportation that has its own cult like following. Some motorcyclists do not wait for nice weather, and many people choose to ride their motorcycles in less than perfect conditions.

While many victims of car accidents are able to walk out of the accident without harm, unfortunately, people who ride motorcycles are generally not that lucky. Riders do not have much protection, and when a motorcyclist is hit by a four-wheeled vehicle, the motorcyclist will receive the brunt of the injuries. This is true even when both vehicles were traveling at a low speed.

The results of these injuries can be catastrophic and life changing. It is not uncommon to hear of motorcyclists suffering pain and permanent disability.

If you or your loved one is the victim of a motorcycle accident, your immediate actions after the accident will either help or hurt your chances of being properly compensated.

Advanced Planning

While no one wants to think they will ever be involved in an accident, the unfortunate truth is that many people will. This means that before an accident occurs, you should have the contact information of a reputable motorcycle accident lawyer in your possession. This way, you will be able to quickly contact your attorney, even if you are in the hospital.

Also, make sure to give the lawyer’s number to your friends and family in the event you are too severely injured to do so on your own.

Contact the Police

Your next step is to call 911. All accidents are supposed to be reported, no matter how minor the accident may seem. When you are involved in a motorcycle accident, the report completed by the police will help to establish who was negligent. Make sure the report is completed and filed with the police at the scene.

Get a Medical Exam

Even if you do not think you are injured, leave that decision to the medical professionals. Brain injuries, soft tissue injuries, neck injuries and back injuries may take a few days before they are fully realized. By getting an examination immediately after the accident, you may be able to avoid life threatening complications. Delays in getting medical treatment can end up being fatal.

Get Your Evidence

If you are able to do so, take your smartphone and snap some pictures. These should be pictures of any damage to your motorcycle, the accident scene, tire tracks, damage to the other vehicle and any noticeable injuries on your body.

Ask eyewitnesses who will be able to corroborate your version of events for their contact information. Be sure to get the insurance information of the other driver and provide them with your information as well.

Do Not Get Your Motorcycle Repaired

If the other driver was at fault, their insurance company may be pressuring you to send your motorcycle to a repair shop. Do not do this. Although you may desperately want your motorcycle repaired so you can get back on the road, wait until you speak with your attorney.

The damaged motorcycle may need to be used as evidence if your attorney is having trouble establishing your case. Getting it fixed early may get rid of this necessary evidence.

It only takes a split second for an accident to change your life. Get the justice you deserve by following these steps when you have been injured in a motorcycle accident.