What To Do if You’re Injured on a Rental Motorcycle
Renting a motorcycle can be a great way to explore a new city, get to your destination much faster, or enjoy the open road without the commitment of ownership. However, when an accident happens, that freedom can disappear quickly. Injuries, insurance questions, and uncertainty of what to do next can leave you feeling overwhelmed. If you were hurt while riding a rental motorcycle, here’s what you can do to protect both your health and legal rights.
Prioritize Your Safety
Immediately after the crash, your first concern should be your safety. Take a moment to assess your injuries and, if you’re able to move, get out of traffic and into a safe area. Ensure you turn off the motorcycle and turn on the hazard lights or signals. Even if you feel okay, avoid riding before checking yourself carefully. Adrenaline can mask pain, only to realize you got injured minutes or hours later.
Call for Medical Help and the Police
If you are injured, call 911 immediately. The police can create an official report of what happened, which can be critical later. Medical responders can also evaluate injuries that may not be immediately apparent. Motorcycle accidents can result in serious injuries like concussions, traumatic brain injuries, or internal injuries that, while not immediately felt or seen, can worsen over time.
Document Everything at the Scene
Evidence is critical in a motorcycle accident, just like in any other type of accident. You can use your phone to take photos of the motorbike, other vehicles involved, road conditions, traffic signs, and your injuries. Capture the position of vehicles before they are moved, if it’s safe to do so. If there are witnesses, collect their names and contact information. These details can help establish how the accident occurred and who was at fault.
Exchange Information Carefully
If another driver was involved, exchange basic information such as names, contact details, insurance information, and license plate numbers. Stick to the facts and avoid discussing fault.
Notify the Rental Company
Most rental agreements require you to report accidents promptly, so ensure you do so. When you contact the rental company, keep your statements factual and avoid speculating or apologizing.
Contact Your Insurance Provider
Even on a rental motorcycle, your own insurance may apply. Depending on your policies, coverage may come from motorcycle insurance, auto insurance, health insurance, or umbrella coverage. When speaking with the insurance company, avoid giving recorded statements until you talk with a lawyer who can help you understand your rights. If the other party’s insurance reaches out, be just as cautious during the conversation. Additionally, do not accept the first settlement as these often undervalue injuries, especially when long-term medical care may be involved.
Track All Accident-Related Costs
Track and keep records of medical bills, prescriptions, lost wages, transportation costs, and any other expenses arising from the accident/ injury. You may recover these losses once you file a claim.
Understand Possible Causes of the Accident
Rental motorcycle accidents can stem from negligent drivers, unsafe road conditions, or poorly maintained motorbikes. Identifying the cause can help determine who may be legally responsible.
Contact Our Columbus Motorcycle Accident Attorney for Legal Help
If you were injured on a rental motorcycle, contact our experienced Columbus motorcycle accident attorney at the law office of Brian G. Miller CO., L.L.C., today to schedule a consultation and pursue the compensation you deserve.
