A biker involved in an accident does not have the benefit of airbags or other safety features commonly outfitted for the typical automobile. Even with years of riding and defensive driving experience, a collision can result in serious injuries.

As both riders and lawyers at Bighorn Law, we are strong believers that you should seek medical attention after a motorcycle accident. You may not immediately feel or notice your injuries, so always check in with the paramedics at the scene.

All vehicle collisions have the potential to cause serious injury, but some injuries are unique to motorcycle crashes, such as road rash, and can range from minor to disabling, such as:

• Facial Fractures
• Broken Bones
• Concussion
• Whiplash
• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
• Burns
• Disfigurement
• Spinal Cord Injuries
• Amputations
• Nerve Damage

First Steps – Directly After a Collision

1. Safety First

If you are able to, remove yourself from harms way. Get off the road and out of traffic.

2. Do Not Remove Your Helmet or Gear

Your neck and spine need to stay protected. Always wait for paramedics.

3. Call 911

Do not leave the scene before the paramedics or police arrive. Assess the scene around you as best you can. This will work to your advantage.

4. Seek Medical Attention

Even if you think you are okay. Serious injuries are not always readily identifiable. Motorcycle crashes tend to be more serious due to the potential for organ damage or internal bleeding from the blunt force of the crash and impact to your midsection.

5. Keep Calm

Do not do anything that will put you or others at risk of injury or cause further property damage.

Next Steps

6. Inform Your Insurance Company

Promptly tell your insurance company you’ve been in an accident. Cooperate with them and tell them the truth about what happened and the extent of your injuries. Explain the facts clearly. Obtain and review any police report filed, so you can point out who broke what traffic laws or who was at fault.

7. Keep Track of Your Medical Treatment

Note any doctors, physical therapists, chiropractors, or other medical professionals that you receive treatment from, and each medical provider that referred you to other caregivers. Keep a detailed account of the treatments and/or medications you receive. Also, request copies of all medical reports and bills as these help you prove your medical expenses later.

Medical expenses are relatively easy to document, but pain and suffering is trickier to prove. Keep a record of how your injuries have impacted your daily life. Include any missed workdays, list any routine activities you can’t undertake, and describe how the injuries have affected your family life.

8. Take Pictures

Take photographs of any damage to your vehicle as soon as possible after the accident. Photos helps your insurance adjuster determine how much you should be compensated for the damage to your car and can help in court.

9. Get a Property Damage Valuation

Obtain your insurance company’s damage valuation. If you aren’t satisfied with how your insurance company has valued your vehicle, don’t give up. Get two independent repair estimates or replacement quotes. Assertively inform the adjuster of your concerns. If you can’t agree on your car’s value, consider mediation or consult your attorney.

10. Obtain an Attorney

An attorney can help you maximize your recovery claim if you’re injured. Many accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, which means that your lawyer only receives a fee if you’re awarded damages or receive a settlement.

Listen to what Nathan Morris, Attorney and Partner of Bighorn Law has to say about motorcycle accident injuries and when you should seek the advise of an attorney: