Maine’s landscape provides an exceptionally picturesque backdrop for a cruise on a motorcycle. However, a scenic ride can turn tragic in the blink of an eye. Being involved in any motor vehicle accident can be terrifying, but being the victim of a motorcycle accident can be particularly devastating and catastrophic. Whether you or someone you love was recently involved in a motorcycle crash or you are a motorcycle owner looking to be prepared in the event of the worst-case scenario, this article is for you.
If you are lucky enough to be alive and conscious after a motorcycle collision, you are undoubtedly shaken up, terrified, and probably confused in the moments after the crash. Once the pure shock wears off, it is normal to feel unsure of what to do next, where to start, and how to handle the situation.
A general understanding of what to do after a motorcycle accident can help you feel prepared even in the worst-case scenarios. Below we discuss 7 critical steps after a motorcycle accident in Maine.
It may seem like common sense, but in an initial state of shock and panic, it is entirely normal to forget things that would ordinarily come as second nature, including dialing 911. If you, your passenger, or someone from the other vehicle is seriously injured in the collision, call 911 for emergency assistance.
You may be lucky and not need emergency medical care. In that case, it is still imperative that you seek immediate medical attention. It is typical for shock and adrenaline to mask pain and injuries. Even if you are lucky enough to be walking and talking after a motorcycle crash, that does not mean you did not sustain a serious internal injury that you cannot yet see or feel. Non-life-threatening injuries should still be seen and treated by a medical professional. Medical treatment can include:
This is not an exhaustive list, and you may need other treatments as well.
Injuries can develop or worsen over hours, days, and weeks. It is vital to be thoroughly checked out by a doctor and follow all medical advice. It is important to remember to keep copies of all receipts and records you receive for the course of any treatments. Having these records in safekeeping and readily available can make calculating damages easier later.
If you are well enough after the crash, document what you can about the accident scene.
Perhaps the easiest and best thing you can do is take pictures with your phone. You can get photos of the cars, injuries, road conditions, weather conditions, or anything else that might be relevant later. Other ways to document the scene include:
Remember, documenting the scene can be as simple as jotting down notes about what you recall before, during, and after the accident.
If your injuries are too severe to document the scene, don’t worry. Our motorcycle accident attorney can assist you with filling in the missing pieces and gathering all necessary documents to pursue a claim. At Mann Law, we have the resources to gather the evidence needed to file a motorcycle accident expeditiously.
In Maine, you must report the accident to the local or state police even if no one requires medical attention. In addition, you must notify your insurance company, even if it is not your fault. The purpose of notifying the insurance company is to advise them of essential information such as where the accident occurred, if the motorcycle was damaged, and if you were injured. The insurance agent will speak to you on a recorded line, so it is crucial to remain honest and truthful. To help your insurance company thoroughly investigate the at-fault party, provide an accurate account of what happened without exaggerating, embellishing, or lying.
While you must notify your insurance carrier of the accident, it is just as important to consult an attorney before speaking with the other driver or their insurance company. Remember, the defendant’s insurance company is looking to pay you the least amount possible. Although your intentions may be good, speaking with their insurance adjuster without an attorney present or consulting an attorney can harm your claim.
It has become almost second nature for people to post just about everything in their daily lives on social media. However, when it comes to a motorcycle or any motor vehicle accident, it is best to avoid social media. You might think the picture or post is harmless, but the insurance carrier and defendant can try and use it against you. Be mindful of what you post, even beyond the minutes and hours following the crash. Even months down the line, an otherwise innocent picture or video of you walking in the park can prove damaging in a lawsuit if you are seeking compensation for injuries.
If you are involved in a motorcycle accident in Maine, it is a good idea to speak with an experienced attorney as soon as possible to discuss your options. Undoubtedly, you have a lot on your plate right now. Let our attorneys assist you by providing advice and direction, speaking with insurance adjusters, or pursuing a motorcycle accident lawsuit.
For nearly 20 years, the attorneys of Mann Law have approached each case with compassion and understanding. We are dedicated to helping our clients hold the party responsible for their injuries liable and rebuild their lives after unfortunate and tragic events. To learn more about who we are and how we can help you check out our website and our Google reviews. Contact us to schedule a no-cost consultation.
