What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Baton Rouge
Motorcycle accidents can be traumatic and disorienting. In order to protect yourself, knowing what steps to take immediately afterward can help protect your health, rights, and interests. If you find yourself in a motorcycle accident in Baton Rouge, Williamson Campbell & Whittington (WCW) is here to help you during this difficult time. Follow these steps to help place yourself in the best position possible after an accident.
Step 1: Keep Yourself Safe
Your safety and the safety of others should be your top priority. If possible, move to a safe location off the road to help prevent further accidents or injuries. However, if you or anyone else is severely injured, avoid moving and wait for emergency services to provide assistance.
After you have moved to the side of the road, call 911. Reporting the accident is necessary for law enforcement and creates an official record that may be important for insurance and legal proceedings.
Step 2: Gather Information
While you wait for the police to arrive, exchange information with the other party involved. Get their full name, contact information, insurance details, vehicle registration number, and make and model of their vehicle. If you’re able to, take photos and videos of the accident scene from multiple angles. Make sure to include the positions of the vehicles, license plates, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible damages and injuries.
Step 3: Avoid Admitting Fault of The Motorcycle Accident in Baton Rouge
Do not admit fault or make any statements that could be interpreted as an admission of liability. Keep interactions with the other party and witnesses courteous but limited. Provide your account of the motorcycle accident only to the responding Baton Rouge officers.
In the weeks following the motorcycle accident, only speak with an insurance agent with your Baton Rouge lawyer present. They can help guide you through the conversation to help protect yourself from putting yourself at legal risk.
Step 4: Seek Medical Attention
Do not underestimate the effects of a motorcycle accident in Baton Rouge. Always seek medical attention following an accident, even if you believe you haven’t sustained serious injuries. Some injuries may only present symptoms later, and it’s important to have a medical record linking your condition directly to the accident.
Step 5: Notify Your Insurance Company
Promptly inform your insurance provider about the accident. Provide them with all the necessary details and documentation you’ve gathered. It’s essential to follow their instructions and meet any deadlines for claims submissions to ensure your coverage is not jeopardized.
However, be mindful of the information you share and consider consulting with one of WCW’s legal professionals before making any statements that could affect your claim or legal rights.
Step 6: Consult a Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Before making any decisions or agreeing to a settlement with insurance companies, consult a motorcycle accident attorney. They can help you understand your legal rights, assist with the claims process, and help ensure that you receive adequate compensation for damages and injuries. Additionally, a lawyer can help you craft statements that accurately describe what happened and avoid being twisted to favor other parties.
Choose The Legal Team Who Will Fight for You After Your Motorcycle Accident in Baton Rouge
The moments following an accident can be overwhelming, but keeping a clear head and following these steps can make a significant difference in the outcome of your situation. If you have been the victim of a motorcycle accident, contact the legal professionals at WCW Injury Lawyers to fight for your rights. Contact us on our website or give us a call at 225-383-4010. Let us know how we can help!