Motorcycle accidents in Oklahoma often leave victims with severe and catastrophic injuries and sometimes even permanent disabilities. The impact of a motorcycle crash could be felt by a victim and their families for the rest of their lives.
Many motorcyclists enjoy riding as a hobby as well as a form of transportation. If this sounds like you, an accident on your motorcycle could also leave psychological scars, leaving you unable or unwilling to get back on your bike.
Motorcycle accidents are a serious problem in Oklahoma. According to the Oklahoma Department of Transportation, there were 61 motorcyclist fatalities in 2020. Additionally, motorcyclists are approximately 29 times more likely to die in a motorcycle accident.
No matter how much you try to stay safe on your motorcycle, you may find yourself the victim of an accident. It is important to know what to do in the immediate aftermath of the crash and in the days and weeks ahead.
Call the police and gather evidence
While you may feel overwhelmed or in shock after the accident, call the police and an ambulance. You must receive immediate medical attention for any injuries and the police should perform an investigation of the accident scene and create a police report.
Tell the police what happened but do not apologize or take responsibility for the accident. Ask for a copy of their report.
Today’s technology makes gathering evidence after an accident easier than it has ever been. If you are able, take photo and video evidence of the accident scene, including the damage done to your bike.
Take photos of the surrounding area. This helps document the road conditions, weather at the time of the accident and other details that can be used as evidence.
Get the names and contact information of everyone involved in the accident, as well as witnesses.
You might be thinking, “what if I am too injured to take any of these steps?” This is understandable and certainly a possibility. You can try asking someone else to help and perform these actions for you.
Seek medical attention even if you do not believe you are injured
Some types of motorcycle accident injuries are not immediately apparent. You may be in shock and full of adrenaline from the accident which can hide or mask injuries or symptoms.
Additionally, you may have injuries that do not show up immediately, such as internal bleeding or damage.
Contact your insurance company about the accident. You ae likely required to promptly report any accidents as part of your insurance policy. However, you have no duty to speak with the other driver’s insurance company. It is better to not speak with them until you understand your legal rights after an accident.
Although the other driver’s insurance company could cover your costs, many times, the amount is simply not enough. Your damage could include more than just your medical bills to include lost wages, pain and suffering and psychological trauma.
Filing a personal injury claim could result in the compensation you need to make you whole again after a motorcycle accident. Knowing how to build a strong case for negligence against the other driver increases your chance of recovering compensation.