Observing a motorcycle accident can be a jarring experience, especially because the vulnerability of motorcyclists can have deadly or life-changing consequences. The Insurance Information Institute reported that thousands of people were killed in accidents in 2020. The daunting numbers emphasize the importance of both bystanders and witnesses in cases involving these accidents. The immediate aftermath of accidents is chaotic, but an accident witness’s calm and quick actions can end up substantially influencing a situation’s outcome, potentially reducing the risk of harm or lost lives. This underscores the critical need for motorcycle accident assistance. The following article offers detailed advice for people who might unexpectedly witness serious motorcycle crashes and ensures that these individuals can provide vital help during critical moments. Remember, each person at the scene of an accident has a role to play in ensuring the best possible outcome for motorcycle accident victims.
Immediate Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident
If you are approaching the scene of a motorcycle accident, remember to take the following pieces of advice:
- Assess the scene. Before you approach the crash scene, remember to take some time to assess the gravity of the situation. Various hazards might be involved in the crash including fuel leaks, approaching traffic, or electrical hazards.
- Consider moving the motorcyclist. If the motorcyclist is in a vulnerable position and capable of moving without causing additional harm, do your best to guide them to a safer location. If the motorcyclist is either trapped or unconscious, however, it is often a better idea to wait for professional help unless immediate dangers like fire exist.
- Protect the scene. Also, do whatever you can to protect the scene. If it is possible to do so, utilize flares or any other type of warning symbol to alert approaching traffic and reduce the risk of additional accidents.
- Approach carefully. Approach the crash victim cautiously and speak calmly. If they are not conscious, let them be alerted that help is on the way. Your presence can provide substantial comfort in difficult situations.
- Remove the helmet. Sometimes, it proves helpful to remove the motorcyclist’s helmet if they encounter challenges breathing. This, however, can sometimes cause more harm than good, especially in situations where there are underlying neck or spinal injuries.
Remember, the immediate actions that you take after a motorcycle accident can provide critical help and support to the victims, which includes helping them to navigate the initial shock associated with an accident.
Helping People Injured in Motorcycle Accidents
Some of the most helpful steps that you should follow while providing motorcycle accident assistance to people who have been injured or impacted by motorcycle accidents include:
- If the motorcyclist is conscious following an accident, you should speak to them. Keeping the motorcyclist alert and engaged can prove helpful in preventing the motorcyclist from going into shock. While engaging in a conversation with the motorcyclist, you should ask them basic questions, including details about their name, whether they are aware of what happened, and whether or not they feel any pain. Taking these steps not only keeps the motorcyclist alert but provides them with an idea of the severity of his condition.
- Inspect whether or not the motorcyclist is breathing. If the motorcyclist is unconscious and not breathing and you have received experience in CRP, you might need to perform this life-saving measure until professional help can arrive. Only try CPR on the accident victim if you are trained in providing this type of care.
- Accidents often place victims in shock, which can result in a sudden drop in their body temperature. If possible to do so, place either a blanket or jacket over them so they stay warm.
- Limit crowds. If multiple individuals have stopped to provide help, do your best to delegate tasks. Too many people have the potential to overwhelm the accident victim and even restrict the services provided by emergency responders.
- Document statements. Oftentimes, following a motorcycle crash, victims communicate how the accident occurred. During this time, do your best to either remember or write down notes about what they say because this information might prove important later.
Your role as a bystander and witness can end up making a substantial difference in the immediate aftermath of an accident. A calm and informed approach can provide critical care and details until emergency workers arrive.
Collect Important Evidence
Oftentimes, people injured in motorcycle accidents need motorcycle accident assistance to collect evidence or details about the accident. Sometimes, the victim’s phone might have been lost or damaged in the accident. Other times, the accident victim might lose consciousness before first responders arrive at the crash scene. In these situations, you might decide to stay at the accident scene to collect details on behalf of the injured parties.
Gathering evidence about how an accident occurred can help the injured party pursue claims with insurance carriers as well as help law enforcement make accurate accident reports. New York drivers are also required to report accidents by law.
Some of the most critical evidence that you should consider collecting following an accident include:
- Names and contact details for all involved parties, including any other witnesses who saw the motorcycle accident occur.
- Details about the weather and traffic conditions at the time the accident occurred.
- Photos of the accident site as well as any damage incurred by the involved vehicles.
- Any available dashcam footage of the accident, if it was captured.
Offer a Witness Statement
After law enforcement and emergency workers arrive at the accident scene, offer law enforcement officers a witness statement as soon as you can do so. Additionally, provide other details about the accident while your memory is still fresh.
If responding law enforcement does not question you at the accident, record a witness statement either in writing or on video. Then, submit this information as soon as you can do so to your local police station. The best witness statements often include the following pieces of information:
- Your name, address, occupation, and contact information.
- A description of how you saw the accident occur, which might include notes about your observation that suggest negligence on the part of one of the involved parties.
- Any corresponding photographs or videos.
- If the statement is in writing, then the accompanying date and your signature.
Obtain Experienced Help Following a Motorcycle Accident
Being involved in a motorcycle accident even if you are a witness is an emotionally demanding experience. If the motorcycle accident directly impacts you or someone you care for, do your best to remember that you are not alone. At the Law Office of Cohen & Jaffe, LLP we have substantial experience representing people impacted by motorcycle accidents. Our dedicated legal team is focused on helping motorcycle accident victims receive the compensation they deserve. If you need assistance or have questions following a motorcycle accident, do not hesitate to contact our law firm to schedule a free case evaluation.
