A motorcycle accident is always a serious matter. But when that accident takes place out-of-state, it can place additional stressors upon a rider. People may be forced to seek out-of-network medical treatment and deal with unfamiliar rules concerning insurance or reporting requirements.
However, by following a few steps in the event an out-of-state motorcycle accident occurs, accident victims can help protect their legal rights and collect information that is useful in pursuing a claim.
If you are a resident of Indiana and were in a motorcycle accident out-of-state, or are a resident of another state involved in a crash in Indiana, a motorcycle accident attorney with Sevenish Law can help guide you through the legal process.
Call 911
After any motorcycle accident, the parties involved should call the police. If the accident occurs in a person’s hometown, they may know the local police phone number. But when an accident happens out-of-state, the rules may change over which department has jurisdiction depending on the location of the accident.
By calling 911 to report the accident, an individual can make sure the appropriate department will always be dispatched based on the location of the accident. Once the police arrive, they will ensure that everyone gets the medical attention they need in addition to producing a police report. Take note of which police department responds to the accident. After an accident, anyone involved will need to contact that police department to obtain the police report for their case.
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Learn about Local Insurance Requirements
Every state has its own rules concerning insurance coverage for motorcycle riders. Some states require a policy to cover injuries of both the driver and anyone else in the accident as well as any property damage that occurs. Other states only require drivers to carry protection for their own damages. When this is the case, injured motorcyclists may sue the at-fault driver directly for their injuries.
Take Pictures at the Scene of the Accident
It is a vital that anyone involved in a motorcycle accident take pictures of the scene. This includes pictures of all vehicles, the location of the accident, the presence of any traffic control signals, and the weather. However, this is especially critical when the accident occurs in another state.
This is because the rider will likely never have the opportunity to revisit the scene. If a person fails to take pictures after a local accident, they can go back a few weeks after to reexamine the scene. However, this becomes far more unlikely for an out-of-state accident. With almost everyone carrying a camera and video-camera in their smartphones, anyone can record vital information after an accident.
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Follow these Steps After an Out-of-State Motorcycle Accident
Even the simplest motorcycle accidents can throw a person’s life into chaos. But when the accident happens in another state, the situation can become much more complex. But, by following a few simple steps, a person can put their mind at ease and increase their chances of a favorable outcome.
Anyone in an accident should immediately call 911 instead of the local police department. They should also take pictures or video of the scene after the accident if they are able. This will memorialize the incident. Everyone should also educate themselves about local insurance requirements. The state where the accident happens may have lower insurance requirements than their home state. As such, the target of the claim may not be an insurance company but the driver.
Finally, if you are a resident of Indiana or are visiting the state, and are involved in an out-of-state motorcycle accident, immediately call a motorcycle accident attorney with Sevenish Law. We can help you understand your rights and actions you can take. No matter where your accident happens, consult with a skilled Indianapolis motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible.
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