What to do immediately after a motorcycle crash

Palm Beach Post (FL)

Question: I've been in a motorcycle crash. What do I do now?

Answer: For many, driving a motorcycle is a fun, thrilling activity that's perfect for Florida's sunny skies and warm weather. But motorcycles come with a high risk of accident. The state of Florida reported 9,143 motorcycle crashes as of October 2019 -- 531 of which were fatal.

While the hope is that you never have to experience a traumatic crash on a motorcycle, here is what you should do immediately following one.

GATHER EVIDENCE

This includes photographs of the crash scene, statements from nearby witnesses and notes about any injuries. Get the names, phone numbers and addresses of anyone else involved in the crash, as well as those of any witnesses. Police will record all of this information, but it is best to also have records of your own.

GET THE POLICE REPORT

Police that arrive on the scene will make a report of the accident. You will want to obtain your own copy of this, both for your personal records and to show an attorney. In Florida, you can order your report online via the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles.

VISIT A DOCTOR

This should apply even if your injuries are minor. Report all injuries to you doctor. Obtain copies of all medical records, follow-up care advice, prescriptions and other documents.

FILE A CLAIM

Florida requires drivers to carry personal injury protection (PIP) coverage. However, this law does not extend to motorcycle drivers. If another driver caused the accident, you cannot claim damages through your own PIP policy. To recover any damages caused, you will need to report the accident to your insurance carrier to start the claims process.

Whether you were on the bike or behind the wheel of a passenger vehicle involved in the crash, you will want to seek an experienced attorney to help you file this claim and navigate the unique details involved in motorcycle accident cases.

Theodore Babbitt is senior partner in the law firm of Babbitt & Johnson, P.A., and is a member of the Inner Circle of Advocates, which is limited to the top 100 personal injury lawyers in the United States.

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Ted Babbitt

Babbitt and Johnson, P.A.

1641 Worthington Road, Suite 100

West Palm Beach FL 33409

(561) 684-2500

www.babbitt-johnson.com

[email protected]

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