What Bikers Should Do After Getting Hit by a Car

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, motorcycles are the top-ranking vehicle when it comes to fatalities on the road. In fact, they are 27 times more likely to be killed than drivers of other types of vehicles. It’s imperative that motorcyclists follow the proper procedures for safe riding, including always wearing helmets and driving sober.

While doing these things will minimize risk of accidents, they don’t necessarily prevent them outright. There are always dangers to be found on the roads and a careless passenger car or truck driver could pose a serious threat to a motorcyclist. The following tips may keep bikers safer:

Make Sure You’re Okay After an Accident

Getting struck by a vehicle is bound to be a disorienting and frightening experience, particularly if you’re riding another, smaller vehicle. From the point of impact until the better part of an hour, you’re likely to feel overwhelmed in a way you’ve never felt before.

You will need to get medical attention no matter what, but you need to be aware of the extent of your injuries. First, make sure you’re able to use your basic motor skills and cognitive functions, such as seeing, speaking, and moving your arms and legs. If you feel substantial pain, sit down while you wait for an ambulance.

Make Sure the Driver Is Okay

While you may be understandably focused on your injuries, you should also pay regard to the driver of the car that hit you. It’s possible that after hitting you, they lost further control and hit another driver or object. If there are witnesses, they will likely call 911 right away. If there’s no one else around and you are able to do so, you should call the police and medical services yourself.

File a Police Report

The police should arrive on the scene promptly. When they do, it’s crucial that you tell them exactly what occurred to the best of your ability. Tell them what you were doing, where you were going, and what happened before, during, and after the point of impact. If there is any element you’re unclear about, don’t try to guess or lie. Instead, tell them that you are uncertain. They will also consult with the driver, and hopefully be able to fill in the gaps.

Exchange Insurance Information

In order to be properly compensated, you need to file an insurance report. The first step to this is to exchange information with the driver. You need to make sure you have your updated proof of insurance on hand whenever you ride your motorcycle. From there, you can file a report with your insurance provider. If the driver doesn’t have insurance, you may need to file a lawsuit. Whether you’re able to file a lawsuit depends on whether or not you’re in a no-fault car insurance state. In these states, other drivers can’t be held accountable for injuries they cause.

Get Help from Us

If you have been injured by a driver while riding your motorcycle, we may be able to help. Contact one of the top motorcycle accident lawyers recommends to make sure you get the help you need.