5 Things to Do if You’ve Been in a Car or Motorcycle Accident

If you’ve been in a motorcycle or car accident in Gainesville, FL, you may be feeling overwhelmed and unsure of where to turn. Knowing what to do following an accident can make a huge difference in ensuring that you are fairly compensated and your rights are protected throughout the legal process.  While it’s important to take certain actions both immediately at the scene and then afterward, at Avera & Smith, we want you to know that we are here to support you throughout the entire process. 

In this blog post, we’ll outline all of the necessary steps for taking care of yourself and/or your loved ones after a car or motorcycle accident — from seeking medical attention to filing a claim or lawsuit — so that you can be sure no important details go overlooked.  

Here are five essential things to do after being in a car or motorcycle accident: 

1. Call 911 Immediately at the Scene

Especially if there are any injuries or property damage, this is a critical first step in obtaining documentation of the accident. In addition, the police can investigate the accident and file an accident report, which may be necessary for insurance claims or legal action. Even if there are no visible injuries and the accident seems minor, it is still recommended to call 911 and document the incident. Additionally, emergency medical personnel can evaluate any injuries sustained in the accident and provide necessary treatment or transport to a medical facility.

2. Collect Personal Information and Photographic Evidence at the Scene

Collecting personal information and evidence at the scene of a motorcycle or car accident in Gainesville, FL is important for several reasons. First, it can be used to help establish fault in the accident by creating a record of exactly what happened at the scene. Any evidence that you have may be helpful if disputes arise. Some important pieces of information to collect include:

• The names and contact information for all parties involved.
• The license plate numbers of the motorcycles or vehicles involved.
• Any photographs or videos of the scene of the accident.
• Contact and insurance information with the other drivers involved in the crash, as well as any witnesses who saw the incident happen. 

Also, if you are not injured, do your best to take pictures (or video footage) from multiple angles of both vehicles, street signs, skid marks, and any other physical evidence of the accident.

3. Seek Medical Attention

This may happen at the scene or after you have left the scene, but the key detail is to ensure that you do follow up with getting evaluated by a medical professional. Even seemingly minor accidents can cause injuries that may not be immediately apparent. Some injuries, such as whiplash, concussions, or internal bleeding, may not have obvious symptoms initially but can escalate into more serious conditions if not treated promptly. Additionally, receiving prompt medical attention can help ensure that injuries are properly diagnosed and treated, which can improve the chances of a successful recovery. Seeking medical attention is also important for documenting any injuries sustained in the accident, which can be helpful when filing insurance claims or lawsuits. Ultimately, seeking medical attention after a car accident can help ensure that any injuries are promptly addressed and a path to rehabilitation is properly created in order to protect your health and well-being.

4. Contact us at Avera & Smith ASAP to Discuss your Legal Rights and Options

We truly want the best for our clients and are committed to seeking justice beyond a dollar amount — restoring your life to the best version possible after a motorcycle or car accident in Gainesville, FL is our goal. We offer free consultations to start the process, which first involves assessing the situation and determining if there is a case for pursuing compensation for injuries and damages sustained in the accident. Because there are so many variables to consider in each unique experience, the consultation also helps us determine the best path to pursue justice, whether that is through dealing with insurance companies, negotiating a fair settlement, or going all the way to trial. 

5. Keep Detailed Records After the Accident

Finally, it is important to keep detailed records of everything related to the accident after it has happened. This includes all medical bills and expenses, as well as any lost wages if you are unable to work due to your injuries. Keeping detailed records will make it easier to pursue any legal action that may be necessary to obtain justice for you.

One last thing: remember that it’s important not to admit fault or sign any documents before consulting with an attorney about your rights after a car or motorcycle accident. In addition, do not accept any initial settlement offer from the other party’s insurance company without consulting an experienced legal professional first. Taking these steps will help ensure that you receive the justice that you are entitled to — the justice that we will fight for on your behalf.