Even when you take every precaution as a motorcyclist, you can still be involved in accidents caused by another party’s carelessness. In these situations, the at-fault party may try to blame you for the crash. To stay calm and avoid saying things that could hurt your case later, there are certain things you should avoid saying to the other rider.
Keep these points in mind while you are safely out of traffic and exchanging information with the other rider.
“I’m sorry, it was my fault.”
Even if you believe you might be partly at fault, do not admit responsibility at the scene. You might be confused or in shock, and your understanding of what happened might not be accurate. Let the police and other investigators figure out who is at fault. Saying you were at fault could make it harder to get compensation for your injuries or damage to your motorcycle.
“I’m fine, I don’t need medical attention.”
Right after an accident, adrenaline can hide pain and injuries. Some injuries, like whiplash or internal problems, might not show up right away. After any crash, regardless if ‘minor,’ you should see a doctor or go to the hospital even if you feel ok. This is important for your health and creates a record of your injuries for any legal claim.
“Let’s just handle this ourselves without involving insurance.”
It might seem easier to deal with things privately, but this can cause problems later. The other person might change their story, or you might find out about more injuries or damage later on. Always tell your insurance company about the accident and consider talking to a lawyer to protect your rights and make sure you don’t end up paying for things you shouldn’t.
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, it may be beneficial to consult with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer. A lawyer can guide you before talks with insurance companies or anyone else involved in the accident.
