Being involved in a hit and run motorcycle accident can be a frightening and frustrating experience. While it is crucial to stay calm, taking immediate action to protect your well-being and legal rights is equally important.
After the collision, prioritize your safety and move to a safe location, if possible. Turn on your hazard lights, and if you are injured or unable to move, try to signal for help or ask witnesses to call emergency services.
If you can, quickly write down as much information as you can about the accident—such as any part of the license plate number you remember, the make, model, and color of the vehicle that hit you, and a description of the driver if you saw them. Also, make a note of the direction they were traveling if possible.
Call 911 to report the hit and run accident to the local authorities and provide them with a detailed account of the incident, including all the information you collected. The police will try to apprehend the fleeing driver and will also visit the accident scene to make a report. A police report will be crucial for insurance claims and legal purposes.
If you can, take photographs of the accident scene, your motorcycle, and any visible property damage and injuries. If there were any witnesses to the accident, ask for their names, contact information, and statements if possible. A witness statement can be vital in supporting your case and finding the at-fault driver.
Even if you feel fine immediately after the accident, it is critical to seek medical care right after leaving the scene. Some severe injuries may not be immediately apparent, and having medical documentation will strengthen any future insurance claims or legal actions you might take. Follow your healthcare provider’s recommendations for ongoing treatment. Consistent medical treatment enhances your credibility with insurance adjusters, as it provides medical records of the severity of your injuries and demonstrates that you are actively pursuing your recovery.
Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the hit and run accident. Provide them with all the details you have, including the police report number. They will explain your coverage and guide you through the claims process if you can and choose to file a claim under your policy. For example, if you carry uninsured motorist coverage (UM/UIM) or collision coverage, you can file a claim to cover damages up to your policy’s limits.
Consider consulting a Las Vegas hit and run accident lawyer. They will have the resources to conduct a thorough investigation into your hit and run. They can gather evidence, interview witnesses, obtain and review surveillance footage, and work with experts to reconstruct the accident scene if necessary. An attorney will also handle communication with the insurance companies on your behalf. They will work with and follow up with law enforcement. If the hit and run driver is identified, a motorcycle accident attorney can help protect your rights, navigate the legal process, and assist you in pursuing fair compensation for your damages.