Seeing a motorcycle accident unfold on the road can be a distressing experience. The witness' composed response can make a world of difference for the injured rider(s). Their quick reaction can potentially save lives. There are many things the witness can do immediately after a motorcycle crash.
The first thing they should do is contact emergency services. Witnesses should stay with the injured person until the police arrive at the accident scene.
Protecting the Scene
Also, the observer should use flares or warning triangles to mark the accident area. This creates a safe zone for the injured rider and prevents further accidents. It also keeps bystanders at a distance.
Approaching with Caution
If it's safe, the witnesses can approach the victim without endangering themselves. The onlookers should not try to move the injured person as it can worsen internal injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries (TBI).
However, supposing it is safe, they can move the victim to a safe location to prevent immediate danger from oncoming traffic and other vehicles.
Collecting Information About the Motorcycle Crash
Gathering essential information following a motorcycle crash is crucial for the immediate response and potential legal matters that may arise.
Pictures of Vehicles Involved
A picture can tell a thousand words, which is true in motorcycle accidents.
The witness of a motorcycle accident case should take as many pictures as possible of the scene. They must focus on the vehicles, visible damage, skid marks, and relevant road conditions.
Statements from Other Witnesses
The first witness can approach other bystanders and request them to share information regarding the motorcycle accident. These statements can help corroborate details of the crash and provide extra perspectives.
Also, the first person to witness a motorcycle crash should collect names and contact information from the passersby for future reference.
Exchanging Personal Information
If possible, the onlooker can write the name, number, and address of the motorcycle accident victim. This way, the witness can contact the plaintiff if they want to provide a statement.
Calling Police Officers
Contacting the police is crucial in the aftermath of a motorcycle accident.
The observer should call 911 and share the location. A detailed description of the accident scene also helps. Law enforcement officers will create an official police report later on.
Hiring an Experienced Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Motorcycle accidents involve many laws and regulations that few people are familiar with. Experienced motorcycle accident attorneys specialize in motorcycle accident cases, providing witnesses with legal expertise.
They can help the observer understand which statements to provide in court (if the lawsuit goes to trial). This legal protection is valuable when dealing with insurance companies and opposing parties.
On top of that, motorcycle accident lawyers have the skills and resources to conduct a thorough investigation. They can collect evidence, such as accident reports and more. They can advise on questions like Is lane splitting legal in Texas?
If someone does witness a motorcycle crash, their priority should be to report the incident to the police and wait with the injured rider until emergency crews arrive.
The next step should be to inform their personal injury lawyer regarding the accident and do as the expert says. They can give more insight on motorcycle accident insurance investigations.
Providing a Witness Statement for a Motorcycle Accident
As a witness to a motorcycle crash, providing a detailed and accurate statement is crucial to the case.
Contact Information
The onlooker should provide their contact information to the law enforcers, including name, phone number, and address. This information ensures the insurance company and court can reach the witness for further inquiries.
Date and Time
They should also specify the date and time of the motorcycle accident. The accuracy of this detail is vital for establishing a clear timeline of events.
Location
Next, the observer should describe the exact location of the crash. This should include street names, landmarks, and any other identifying features. Providing a precise location helps authorities and legal professionals understand the context of the incident.
Description
In the witness statement, the observer should specify everything they saw up to and during the accident. They should be as detailed as possible.
The witness can recount the actions of all parties, road, weather, and traffic conditions. Also, the onlooker should identify the people involved in the accident, including the motorcycle rider and pedestrians.
Actions
When providing a statement, the witness should also mention what they did during the accident. This should involve interactions with the victim, what the witness did to help them, and more.
The onlooker should also express their willingness to cooperate further if needed.
Signature
After completing the above-mentioned procedures, the final part of a witness statement involves signing necessary documents and verifying authenticity.
The signature shows the statement is a true and accurate account of the motorcycle accident. It also proves the witness was truthful while making the statement.
Common Injuries Motorcycle Accident Victims Sustain
Motorcycle riding is exciting, but it has inherent risks. Accidents can lead to a range of minor and severe injuries.
Head Injuries
One of the most critical concerns for riders is head injuries. Even with helmets, head trauma can have long-lasting consequences.
They can range from minor concussions to serious spinal injuries. They also result in long-term cognitive and physical disabilities.
Road Rash
Abrasions and road rash are common when a rider makes hard contact with the road surface. These injuries cause the skin to burn and peel. Painful, deep wounds often need medical attention and expensive skin grafts.
Broken Bones
The impact of a motorcycle accident leads to broken bones. Wrists, arms, and legs are the most vulnerable areas. Fractures can be minor hairline cracks or more severe breaks requiring surgery and metal insertion.
Internal Bleeding
Many injuries show up days or weeks later, causing slow internal bleeding. They can eventually cause paralysis, loss of motor function, or other disabilities.
Facial Injuries
Jaw fractures, broken cheekbones, and injured noses are common in motorcycle crashes. In addition to the physical pain, facial injuries can lead to disfigurement and emotional distress. Full-face helmets and appropriate visors protect against such damage.
Final Words
Motor vehicle accidents are scary for the involved parties, including bystanders. However, fast thinking and aid can save the injured rider(s). Immediate response also contributes to accurate documentation of the incident.
The experts at Schuerger Shunnarah Trial Attorneys offer free consultation sessions to victims and witnesses of motorcycle accidents. With a slogan that says, "We Go to War for You," these professionals can properly represent clients in court.