Motorcycle accidents are often devastating. One of the most common questions, beyond the shock and pain that follows a motorcycle crash, is where to go. It can make all the difference to your recovery, and protect your rights.
Seek immediate medical attention
Health should always be the priority. Get checked by a doctor immediately, even if you think that your injuries are minor or feel fine. Some injuries, such as internal bleeding, concussions or spinal trauma, don’t show symptoms right away.
- Emergency Room: The first place to go if your injuries are serious is the ER. The doctors can stabilize you, and eliminate life-threatening conditions.
- Urgent Care Clinic – For injuries which do not appear to be life-threatening, but require prompt attention. Urgent care clinic is an option.
- Primary Care Physician: Your regular doctor will be able to provide you with follow-up treatment, order tests and document your injury if they are able to see you promptly.
Documentation is the main objective. It is important to keep a record of all your injuries, not only for your own recovery but also in case you decide to file an insurance claim.
Report an Accident
The next step after ensuring safety is to ensure that the accident is documented. This is usually done by calling the police and filing a report. A police report will include details on the accident, witnesses and the conditions at the site. This report can be used as evidence in the future if there are questions about fault or responsibility.
If Needed, Consult a Specialist
Motorcycle accidents can cause unique injuries, such as road rash or broken bones. They may also result in head trauma, neck trauma, or even road rash. You may need to consult a specialist depending on your condition:
- Orthopedic surgeons are needed for fractured bones or damage to joints.
- Neurologists are available for injuries to the brain, head or nerves.
- You can regain strength and mobility with the help of physical therapists.
- For ongoing neck or back pain, chiropractors or pain management specialists are the best choice.
Specialists are able to provide a better picture of the long-term recovery as well as what treatments might be required.
Consider Mental Health Support
A motorcycle accident can not only be physically challenging, but also emotionally draining. After serious accidents, anxiety, depression or post-traumatic stresses are not uncommon. You can focus on recovery by seeking support from a counselor or therapist.
Contact Your Insurance Company
Many insurance policies stipulate that you must notify them within a specified timeframe of any accident. Don’t speculate about the cause of an accident or accept blame. Just provide the facts. Your words may be used against you by insurance companies later. It is best to start with the basics: date, time, place, and the fact that you sought medical attention.
Consider Your Legal Options
You may want to know your legal rights if your injuries were the result of another driver’s negligence. Motorcycle accident laws can be complicated, particularly when it comes time to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages or pain and discomfort. Even if you don’t pursue a claim, speaking with a personal lawyer can help clarify your options.
Focus on Recovery
Don’t forget to rest and follow up with your doctor. Keep a log of all medical appointments and follow the advice given by your doctor. Healing takes time. The more proactive you are in your recovery, your chances to regain your quality of living will be better.
Final Thoughts
Where should you go after a motorcycle crash? To protect your health, you should first visit a hospital or doctor. After that, you should report the accident, save all medical records, and look into insurance and legal options. After a car accident, the road can seem overwhelming. But by taking these steps, you will be taking care of your health, your mind and your future.
This post was written by a professional at Bonardi & Uzdavinis, LLP. Bonardi & Uzdavinis, LLP is a boutique, full service law firm providing its clients with a wide range of representation. Our primary areas of practice include real estate, probate, personal injury, construction, and commercial litigation. If you are looking for a real estate attorney or personal injury lawyer tampa fl contact us today for a case evaluation today!