Experiencing a car accident can be a traumatic and overwhelming event, especially if you've been rear-ended. Understanding the proper steps to take after a rear-end collision is crucial. This guide will walk you through the essential actions you should consider, emphasizing the importance of seeking professional legal assistance from a Milwaukee car accident attorney to navigate the aftermath.

Ensure Safety First

Immediately after a rear-end collision, prioritize your safety and the safety of others involved. If possible, move your vehicle to a safe location, turn on hazard lights, and check for injuries. If anyone is hurt, call emergency services immediately.  

File an Accident Report

Contact the local police to report the accident and make sure an official report is filed. The accident report can serve as a crucial piece of evidence when dealing with insurance claims or legal matters.  Depending on the severity of the accident, law enforcement may or may not come to the scene.  If possible, it is preferred for law enforcement to respond to the scene to conduct an investigation of the accident.  If law enforcement does not come to the scene, then you should self-report the accident at the police station or online.  

Exchange Information

Exchange information with the other party involved in the accident. Get their name, contact details, and insurance information, and note the make, model and license plate of their vehicle. During this process, be sure to not admit to anything to the other party as that could be used against you later. Gathering contact information will be crucial when filing a claim with insurance or if legal action becomes necessary.

Document the Scene

Take pictures of the accident scene, including all vehicles involved, any visible damage, and the surrounding area. Note the weather conditions, traffic signals, and any relevant road signs. These details can serve as valuable evidence later on.  Also, obtain the name and contact information for any witnesses to the accident.  

Seek Medical Attention

It’s important to seek medical attention at the onset of injury. Some injuries, such as whiplash, may not manifest symptoms until hours or days after the accident. Documenting your injuries will be important for both your health and any potential legal proceedings. Take photos of any bruising or visible injuries.  

Contact Natasha Misra Law Today

Navigating the legal complexities of a car accident case, especially if you've been rear-ended, can be challenging. A Milwaukee car accident attorney can help you by negotiating with insurance companies and getting you the compensation you deserve. 

Being rear-ended in Milwaukee can lead to a range of challenges, but taking the right steps immediately following the accident can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Natasha Misra Law is your ally in securing compensation for any damages and navigating the complexities of the legal process.

After a motorcycle accident, the decision to repair or replace your motorcycle depends on the circumstances surrounding the accident and the severity of the crash. Your bike may suffer minor damages such as dents and scratches or be totaled during an accident. Whether you file a claim with your insurance carrier, the other driver’s insurer, or pay for repairs out of your pocket depends on the extent of the damages and who was responsible for the accident.

If you are in a roll-over or run-off-road accident and the motorcycle has minor damages, replacing the whole bike may be unnecessary. Instead, you might want to get it repaired. However, if you are involved in a more serious collision, your motorcycle may be totaled.  Regardless of whether your motorcycle is repairable or totaled, you should file a claim with your insurance company or the at fault party’s insurance company to seek compensation.  

Motorcycle Safety Inspection Checklist after An Accident

Checking your motorcycle thoroughly after a crash is essential as it helps you identify the slightest damages. You should not ride the motorcycle home if you notice significant damages after an accident. Instead, you should have it towed to a repair shop for a full evaluation of the damage.

However, if your only option is to ride your motorcycle home after a collision (and you believe it is safe to do so) it is best to conduct a motorcycle safety inspection to ensure a safe ride. Here is an essential checklist:

  • Tires – Check the motorcycle tires for cuts and gushes and ensure the tread is in good shape to help keep the bike moving.
  • Roll your motorcycle – Roll the bike forward and backward to identify any strange rattling or crunching noises. Strange sounds could be an indicator of significant damages from the accident.
  • Brakes – You should also inspect your brake system for impairments that could impact your ability to brake.
  • Motorbike controls – It helps to check if the bike controls are all intact to allow you to control your motorbike as usual. Perform a visual check to ensure the clutch and foot controls are still effective.
  • Lights and signals – These tools are vital since they help show other road users your intentions on the road. Therefore, you should ensure your lights and signals are all working before hitting the road.

Repair It vs. Replace It

Ultimately, the decision to repair or replace your motorcycle depends on the extent of the damage.  For example, you could choose to take it to a repair shop where the repair costs will be sent to the insurance adjuster.  Alternatively, the insurance company may declare your bike totaled and compensate you with its actual cash value.

Contact Natasha Misra Law for Legal Representation

If you are a rider in Milwaukee, Madison, Hales Corners, Appleton, or Green Bay who has been involved in a motorcycle accident, then you should consult with a motorcycle accident attorney. At Natasha Misra Law, we help motorcycle accident victims determine the true value of their claims and fight to get them the compensation they need to get healthy and back on the road. Contact us online or call us at 414-635-2858 to schedule a free consultation today.

Natasha Misra

My law practice is dedicated to helping people who have suffered injuries in accidents which were not their fault. Born and raised in Milwaukee, I come from a family of medical professionals. My background and experience help me understand and represent individuals injured in accidents.