If you or someone you love was hurt in a motorcycle hit-and-run accident, it is important to know that you are not alone. These accidents are horrific and terrifying to experience, and victims are often worried that they’ll be left picking up the pieces without the crucial compensation they deserve.
What should you do now? Who will advocate for your rights? At Kim Law, our Atlanta motorcycle accident attorneys want to be the first – and only – call you ever have to make after a serious crash.
You deserve a law firm that fights aggressively for you and protects your rights at every turn. We understand that the road ahead may be uncertain. That’s why our motorcycle accident lawyers provide you with the guidance, information, and support you need to make informed decisions and ultimately rebuild your life after a serious motorcycle hit-and-run accident.
What to Do After a Motorcycle Hit and Run Accident?
After a motorcycle hit-and-run accident, you may be left alone and injured. If you can locate a passerby or there were eyewitnesses, ask them to call 911 immediately. If you can do this, you’ve done the most important step.
If you can, here are some important steps to take after a motorcycle hit-and-run accident.
- Contact Law Enforcement Immediately
The first and most crucial step after a motorcycle hit-and-run accident is to call the police and emergency services. Reporting the incident to the police helps establish an official record of the accident. Even if you don’t have all the details of the fleeing vehicle, provide as much information as possible, such as the time, location, and any identifying features of the vehicle involved.
- Seek Medical Attention
If you’re injured, seek medical attention immediately. Even if you believe your injuries are minor, you must get a medical exam as soon as possible. Many injuries can be masked in the initial hours after a motorcycle crash. You may not realize just how injured you are, and going to the emergency room is the first step toward getting the medical care you need to recover. Not only does this prevent medical complications, but it also provides crucial documentation for insurance claims and legal proceedings.
- Gather Evidence at the Scene
Preserving evidence is vital for building a strong case. If you’re physically able, gather as much evidence as possible at the accident scene. Take photographs of your motorcycle’s damage, the surrounding area, and any visible skid marks or debris. If there were any witnesses to the accident, try to obtain their contact information, as their testimonies could be invaluable later on.
- Consult Legal Counsel
In hit-and-run cases, call an experienced motorcycle accident attorney with experience handling motorcycle accidents. Your attorney will help you understand your rights, gather evidence, negotiate with insurance companies, and potentially pursue legal action against the responsible party when they are located.
In many hit and run cases, identifying the responsible party can be challenging. Attorneys have resources and connections that can aid in the investigation. They can work with law enforcement, private investigators, or utilize legal processes to gather evidence that can help identify the perpetrator.
- Utilizing Uninsured Motorist Coverage
If the hit-and-run driver is not identified or is uninsured, your uninsured motorist coverage can come to your rescue. This coverage helps compensate you for damages and injuries caused by uninsured or underinsured drivers. This includes hit-and-run accidents.
- Stay Cautious on Social Media
After a hit-and-run accident, be cautious about what you share online regarding the accident. Avoid discussing the details of the motorcycle accident or your injuries on social platforms, as such posts could be used against you during legal proceedings. Even photos online can be misinterpreted to show that you’re not as injured as you claim. Avoid posting on social media without first speaking to your attorney.
Motorcyclists At Risk of Hit and Run Accidents
Unfortunately, motorcyclists in Atlanta are at risk of getting into a hit-and-run accident. Motorcyclists lack the protective shell of a car, making them more vulnerable to injuries in collisions. This increased vulnerability might prompt some drivers to panic and flee the scene out of fear of consequences.
Hit-and-run drivers might also fear the financial and legal responsibilities that come with their actions. This fear could drive them to escape the scene to evade consequences. These accidents often occur in situations where there are no witnesses. The absence of immediate accountability might embolden some drivers to flee, assuming they won’t be identified or caught.
Contact Our Atlanta Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Today
Motorcycle hit-and-run accidents can be physically and emotionally distressing, but there are ways you can navigate the challenges ahead. By following these comprehensive steps and working with our law firm, you can protect your rights, preserve essential evidence, and work towards receiving the compensation you deserve.
Call the motorcycle accident attorneys at Kim Law today at 404-587-8946 or fill out our confidential contact form. We can set up a consultation so that you can review all your legal options.