Interstates such as I-20 and I-10 are major routes serving Dallas and Lake Charles, with heavy traffic and commercial vehicles sharing the road with passenger cars and motorcycles. For motorcyclists without the protection of an enclosed vehicle, a crash on one of these busy highways can be especially dangerous, as traffic often continues moving at high speeds after a crash.
After a motorcycle accident, call for medical assistance and, if possible, move to a safe location. If you are able, taking photos of the scene, your injuries, and your vehicle will help preserve evidence if you need to file a claim. Exchanging information with other drivers and saving records of your medical care, property damage, and related expenses can also help.
Do Not Wait To Get Medical Treatment After an Accident
Motorcycle crashes can cause brain or spinal cord injuries, broken bones, road rash, internal bleeding, and injuries to the muscles and joints. However, shock and adrenaline can delay the onset of symptoms and make some injuries more difficult to notice immediately after the accident.
Even if you feel fine, you should get checked by a medical professional. Follow the provider’s treatment instructions and keep copies of your medical records, bills, and receipts for other related expenses.
Document the Motorcycle Accident Scene
If it is safe to do so, document the scene of your motorcycle accident. Photos and other information gathered from the scene can help show what happened and support an insurance or legal claim. The following types of evidence at the scene will be helpful for your potential case:
- Photos of the motorcycle, other vehicles, and visible damage
- Photos of the road, skid marks, debris, traffic signs, and surrounding conditions
- The names and contact information of witnesses
- Dashcam, helmet-camera, surveillance, or cellphone footage
- Evidence of potholes, loose gravel, standing water, construction, or other road hazards
- Details about traffic, weather, lighting, and visibility at the time of the crash
- The police crash report and incident number
- Insurance and contact information for the other drivers involved
Collect Records of Your Damages From the Motorcycle Accident
In the days and weeks following your crash, other evidence will be helpful to collect as well. Keep receipts, estimates, invoices, and insurance correspondence, as these records help document the financial losses resulting from your motorcycle accident. Important records can include:
- Motorcycle repair or replacement costs
- Towing and storage fees
- Damaged riding gear and other personal property
- Medical records, bills, repair estimates, towing receipts, and other accident-related documents
- Lost wages and income
- Transportation and other accident-related expenses
A Lake Charles motorcycle accident attorney can help you evaluate your claims and further discuss the types of evidence that will be helpful for proving your damages and loss.
Be Cautious When Discussing Your Accident With Different Parties
When speaking with police, insurance companies, or others after the crash, stick to the facts. Do not admit fault or make guesses about what happened. A statement made while you are shaken or before you know all the details could later be used to challenge your claim.
Give police accurate information, but do not guess about details you cannot clearly remember. Be especially careful when speaking with insurance adjusters, who do not have your best interests in mind. Also, avoid posting photos, updates, or comments about the crash or your injuries on social media. Anything you share can later be used against you, even if your social media accounts are private.
When an Interstate Motorcycle Crash Causes Catastrophic Injuries
At interstate speeds, motorcycle collisions can cause brain injuries, spinal cord damage, paralysis, amputations, and permanent disabilities. Riders with severe injuries may need continued medical treatment, rehabilitation, help with everyday activities, or changes to make their homes accessible. These needs can affect the rider and their family for years to come. If you or someone you love has suffered permanent injuries, our catastrophic injury lawyers can help you evaluate the next steps.
An interstate motorcycle accident can also easily lead to a fatality. While no amount of money can bring back the death of your loved one, our compassionate attorneys can help you file a wrongful death action to help you recover from the loss of your loved one.
What To Do With a Damaged Motorcycle After a Wreck
A damaged motorcycle may not be safe to ride. However, before repairing your motorcycle, make sure that its condition is thoroughly documented. Keep records of all towing, storage, inspection, and repair-related expenses.
Your damaged motorcycle may be important evidence of the crash’s force and circumstances. In some circumstances, such as a fatality or a catastrophic injury crash, preserving the bike without repairing it allows investigators, insurers, or experts to inspect the damage before anything is altered. Similarly, if your motorcycle is beyond repair, do not dispose of it until you have thoroughly documented its condition.
Discuss Your Interstate Motorcycle Accident With Our Attorneys at Shamieh Law Today
If you or a loved one was seriously injured in an interstate motorcycle accident, a Dallas motorcycle accident lawyer at Shamieh Law can help you assess your potential claims, preserve critical evidence, and explain your available legal options.
We offer free case evaluations and consultations. To schedule your free case assessment, contact us through our website or call us at (337) 435-8071. Let us focus on recovering compensation for your losses while you focus on your family’s needs.