While cars and trucks dominate streets, roads, and highways in the US, millions of others also enjoy other forms of legal travel today whether as pedestrians, cycle enthusiasts, or motorcyclists. For those riding in traffic with larger vehicles, their vulnerability is not only obvious—but substantial; in fact, the average car today weighs over 4,000 lbs. When a collision occurs with someone on foot or traveling on two wheels, injury (and sometimes death) usually occurs.

Motorcyclists—often the owners of one or more cars themselves—are a common sight on roads today, with over eight million of the popular smaller vehicles now registered in the US. Still though, visibility is often cited as an issue in accidents, although it is the motorist’s responsibility to be aware of their surroundings in traffic at all times. Motorcyclists usually employ a variety of tactics to make themselves known, from revving their engines to wearing bright coloring or reflective stripes on helmets and shoes, adding extra lighting, and moving within lanes to avoid being in blind spots. Far too many accidents still occur though, and especially in Florida.

If you are a motorcyclist, know what to do after a collision with a car by following these five steps:

1. Take a few moments to collect yourself and evaluate the results of the accident, along with making sure the car that hit you has pulled over too. Assess whether you or your passenger have serious injuries. If there is any doubt, an ambulance should be called.
2. Call the police so that an official report can be filed. This also means that you have law enforcement at the location in case the other party wants to leave the scene, or is argumentative, or under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
3. Call an experienced car accident attorney from a firm like Heintz Law as soon as possible. Keep in mind that insurance adjustors will be calling you quickly—and they should be referred to your attorney. Not speaking with adjustors on your own can be extremely beneficial to your case.
4. Take pictures of all damage or anything that could be considered evidence before moving your motorcycle, so traffic can continue safely forward. Take pictures of any crossroads, stoplights, and major traffic details close by. It is important to get pictures of the other vehicle if possible too, along with their license plate. If there are witnesses nearby, ask for their contact information. They could be key to your case later!
5. Trade insurance information with the other driver, as well as getting any other contact information possible.

If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident due to the negligence of another driver, contact the attorneys at Heintz Law. We’ve helped victims from Bradenton, Sarasota, and all over Florida get compensation for their damages and medical expenses after accidents. Call us for a free consultation now at 941-748-2916 or contact us online. We are here to help!