Greensboro Motorcycle Insurance: What to Do After an Accident

When you ride a motorcycle it's important to be especially alert to road risks particular to motorcyclists. Because of the relatively small size of your vehicle, it's sometimes easy for others on the road to disregard or be totally unaware of your presence, leaving you vulnerable to becoming subject to an accident.

If you do become victim to an accidental mishap, even one that might seem relatively minor to someone driving an automobile, it can cause serious injury when your only protection is a helmet and a bit of protective clothing. You should make sure before setting out on any motorcycle ride that you're wearing the recommended protective gear, that your motorcycle insurance is currently in force, that you're in possession of your proof of insurance card and that your bike is in good running condition. If you do become involved in an accident, there are also certain after-accident procedures of which you should be aware and that you should follow. These include the following.

After-Accident Do's and Don't's

What you do and say after being involved in a vehicle accident can seriously impact how the event will affect you. What you do and say should be guided by what will be in your best interests in the determination of liability and future claims. Here are some guidelines to follow:

1.     The first consideration immediately after an accident is the safety of yourself and the others involved. If you're able to move without causing harm, remove yourself from the roadway and away from any risks such as oncoming traffic, vehicles leaking fuel or burning vehicles/structures. Don't leave the scene.

2.     Remain calm. If you suspect any injuries have someone call 9-1-1. Few motorcycle accidents don't involve some type of injury so you should definitely get checked out by qualified medical personnel.

3.     If 9-1-1 is notified, police will also respond. Otherwise, local police should be called.

4.     Don't make any statements, assign any blame or apologize for your involvement. Don't argue with other parties about cause or fault of the accident. Call your motorcycle insurance company as soon as possible.

5.     Exchange information with others involved, including names, addresses, phone numbers, license and plate info and insurance information. Also obtain names and phone numbers of any available witnesses. Take pictures if possible.