After a New Mexico motorcycle accident, call 911 to report the crash, get medical care right away, document the scene, gather the other party’s information, preserve evidence, and contact an attorney to protect your legal rights and make the claims process easier.
Prioritize Your Safety
Motorcycle accidents can result in serious injuries. Always get medical care immediately after a motorcycle accident. Check yourself for injuries at the scene, but keep in mind that some injuries have delayed and hidden symptoms. Your adrenaline may be masking pain. Visit a hospital without delay for prompt diagnosis.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, per vehicle mile traveled, motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to be seriously injured in accidents than passenger vehicle occupants. Common injuries include broken bones, head and brain injuries, road rash, and spinal cord injuries.
Call 911
You should always report a New Mexico motorcycle accident to the police by dialing 911 at the scene. The police can investigate the crash and create an accident report that documents key details and information. Do not admit fault for the accident when speaking to the police. After a few days have passed, contact your local precinct to obtain a copy of your police report to use during your insurance claim.
Document the Scene
While you wait for the police to arrive, document the scene of the motorcycle accident. Take photos with your cell phone of both vehicles, road markings, your injuries and the larger accident scene. Exchange information with all other involved parties. Get the other motorist’s name, contact information and insurance details. Write down eyewitness names and contact information, as well.
Notify Insurance
Call your own automobile insurance provider to report the motorcycle accident. Then, if you believe the other motorist is to blame, file a claim with their insurance policy. New Mexico is a fault car accident state, which gives you the right to hold the at-fault party liable or financially responsible for your motorcycle crash.
An insurance claim or a personal injury lawsuit against an at-fault party could lead to financial compensation for your present and future medical bills, motorcycle repairs (or the pre-crash value of your vehicle if it was totaled), lost wages and capacity to earn, permanent disability or disfigurement, and pain and suffering.
Collect Evidence
While you heal and recover from your New Mexico motorcycle accident, keep all relevant documents and records as evidence. This can include your medical records, hospital bills, vehicle repair estimates, wage statements and communications from an insurance company.
Protect Your Rights
Avoid making premature statements to the other driver’s insurance company without getting legal advice from a personal injury attorney in Albuquerque first. Be cautious about what you post on social media, as well, as an insurer can use anything you post against you. Before accepting a quick settlement, it is recommended to consult with a lawyer to understand your legal rights and recovery options.
It is especially important to contact an attorney if there are serious injuries or claim complications, such as a dispute about fault. A lawyer will protect your rights as you move through the claims process in pursuit of justice and fair compensation.