What to Do After a Hit-and-Run Motorcycle Accident
After a hit-and-run motorcycle accident, prioritize your health and safety. If possible, move out of the roadway, call the police, and seek medical care. Do not attempt to chase down the driver. Let law enforcement handle this. Sadly, it is common for negligent motorists to leave the scene of a motorcycle crash because they don’t have insurance, committed a crime, or were intoxicated.
At Rhine Law Firm, P.C., we are determined to help clients achieve their goals —especially when seeking compensation after serious injuries in an accident. Our team of experienced attorneys is ready to leverage our substantial experience and resources to fight for your rights. We are a local law firm with a national presence. Call today for a free consultation.
7 Steps to Take After a Hit-and-Run Accident
It’s normal to feel overwhelmed after a hit-and-run accident. However, if you are well enough, here are some steps to take after the at-fault motorist flees the scene.
1. Move to a Safe Area
After the accident, move yourself and your bike, if possible, to a safe area. If you cannot move your motorcycle, ask bystanders for help. Your safety comes before the bike. If you cannot move it, leave it behind so you do not exacerbate your injuries.
2. Dial 911
Inform the dispatcher about your location and explain that you were in a hit-and-run accident. Try to provide a description of the vehicle or the driver who fled the scene, if possible. For example, you might remember the color or the direction it was headed.
3. Document Everything
Take pictures of your injuries, damage to your motorcycle, and any other property damage. Ask for contact information if any witnesses saw the accident, and make note of important details, such as the time and location of the accident, the road conditions, and nearby businesses that might have surveillance cameras.
4. Seek Medical Attention
Some injuries may have delayed onset symptoms. Seeking medical care protects your health and your claim. A medical doctor will ensure you get proper treatment, which also creates important documentation of your injuries. Further, the negligent party (if they are located) or an insurance company cannot allege that you were hurt in another incident.
5. Report the Crash to Your Insurance Company
After seeking medical attention, contact your insurance company and report the hit-and-run accident. However, beware of making any statements before speaking to an attorney. The insurance company may use whatever you say to minimize or deny your claim.
6. Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Legal guidance is necessary after a hit-and-run accident. A dedicated motorcycle accident lawyer can file all the appropriate paperwork and handle negotiations with other parties, such as an insurance company, while you focus on recovery.
7. File a Personal Injury Lawsuit
If the identity of the hit-and-run driver is discovered, you may file a civil suit against them. If not, your own insurance will pay up to your policy limits. If your damages and losses exceed that amount, you can utilize your uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM) if you have purchased it. If you haven’t, it is wise to do so.
Schedule a Free Consultation with Rhine Law Firm
Our law firm brings decades of personal injury experience to every case we handle in North Carolina. Over the years, we have helped many injured motorcyclists recover compensation for their damages and losses. Call today for a free consultation. We are happy to assess your case and answer your questions. Since we work on a contingency fee basis, you will not pay attorney’s fees unless we win. We look forward to hearing from you.
