It's dangerous for a motorcyclist to ride on a busy Virginia interstate, especially with only a helmet for protection. A momentary loss of concentration or a sudden swerve could result in a severe crash with another motor vehicle. A motorcycle accident that results in a dent or a scratch for a car, SUV, or truck can be catastrophic to a motorcyclist, who is easily thrown from a motorcycle during a collision.
Virginia's Department of Motor Vehicles Highway Safety Office reported that in 2010 there were 2,207 motorcycle crashes in the state. For those involved, a motorcycle wreck is physically and emotionally devastating. If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident in Virginia, follow these steps:
- Stop the motorcycle and do not leave the scene.
- Contact the police right away.
- Seek medical attention. - If you, your passenger, or another individual involved in the motorcycle collision has been injured, seek immediate medical attention. Also, keep records of all injuries you have incurred and the treatment received.
- Gather contact information. - Obtain the name, address, phone number, driver's license number, license plate number, and insurance company information of any other drivers involved in the accident. Also, write down as much as you can about the scene, including what was said. If possible, photograph the scene, including damage to the motorcycle and all injuries.
- Speak with witnesses. - Gather information from any witnesses at the scene, as these individuals will be impossible to track down later.
- Keep comments to a minimum. - After an accident, never say "it's my fault" or apologize, as fault and liability have not yet been determined. Keep your comments general and to a minimum, and just provide the facts when speaking to the police.
- Contact your insurance company.
- Contact an attorney. - Determining liability in a motorcycle accident is complicated. Call an attorney while at the scene or immediately thereafter. An attorney will start gathering the required information, including a copy of the police report and other important documentation.
Being involved in a motorcycle accident is a traumatic event, with injuries ranging from burns, bruises, and broken bones to spinal cord and brain injuries. Each of these injuries is serious and may be debilitating.
If you or a family member has been involved in a motorcycle collision, you need the immediate assistance of a Virginia motorcycle accident lawyer who has experience and knowledge. Michael Weisberg has been representing clients in personal injury cases for more than four decades in southeastern Virginia, including the greater Norfolk and Portsmouth area. Receive a copy of his free book, What You Need to Know about Getting a Fair and Reasonable Settlement, and contact Michael Weisberg at 757-777-9214 or toll free at (800) 690-0235 for answers to your questions. You also can send an e-mail to info@weislaw.com. An experienced Virginia motorcycle accident attorney will work hard for your rights.
