A motorcycle accident in Arizona can feel overwhelming – and rightfully so, especially when you need to deal with the fallout, like injuries, property damage, and complicated legal matters. But if you know the right steps to take immediately after a motorcycle crash, you can protect your health, legal rights, and chances to claim compensation for the losses that you suffered.
How Do I Stay Safe at the Accident Scene?
Immediately after a motorcycle accident, move to a safe spot away from traffic if you can, even if you have to leave your bike behind. If you cannot get entirely out of the way of traffic, turn on your hazard lights or set up flares if you have them to alert other drivers.
Check yourself and others for injuries right away. Even if you feel fine at first, the post-accident adrenaline can mask serious injuries that might not show up until later, so call 911 and request medical attention.
Arizona law requires law enforcement to complete written reports for accidents involving bodily injury, death, or property damage exceeding $2,000. Request a copy of this written report for your records.
Exchange contact and insurance information with all parties involved in the accident. Collect names, phone numbers, driver’s license numbers, license plate numbers, and insurance details from every driver, even if you don’t believe they caused the accident. Try to get contact information from any witnesses, as well.
Take photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, traffic signs, and any visible injuries. Write down or record details about the accident while your memory is fresh, including weather conditions, time of day, and exactly how the crash occurred.
What Arizona-Specific Motorcycle Laws Should I Know?
Arizona has specific motorcycle laws that may impact your accident case:
- The law only requires helmets for riders under 18 years old; adult riders must wear protective eyewear, such as glasses, goggles, or a transparent face shield, unless their motorcycle has a protective windshield.
- Motorcyclists can lane filter when traffic is either stopped or moving at 15 mph or less, and when the roadway speed limit is 45 mph or lower.
- Under Arizona law, you can recover compensation if you played a part in the accident, though the court may reduce your award in proportion to your percentage of fault.
How Do I Navigate Insurance Claims and Reporting Requirements?
Contact your insurance company within 24 to 72 hours of the accident to report the accident, but avoid providing detailed recorded statements until you consult with an attorney.
Then, if the other driver caused the accident, file a claim with their insurance company. Arizona’s minimum liability insurance requirements for motorcycles – $25,000 bodily injury per person, $50,000 per accident, and $15,000 property damage – apply to policies issued, reinstated, or renewed on or after July 1, 2020. This coverage helps pay for any injuries you suffered.
If the at-fault party’s insurance policy does not adequately cover the cost of your associated injuries, you may have legal grounds to pursue a personal injury lawsuit to make up the difference – as long as you do so within Arizona’s two-year statute of limitations.
Trust Your Recovery with the Motorcycle Accident Attorneys at Valley Injury Team
If you have suffered an injury in a motorcycle accident in Arizona, you do not need to manage the legal process alone. Trust the seasoned legal team at Valley Injury Team to advocate for your interests and defend your rights. Our team has secured millions in personal injury lawsuits and settlements, and we will help you demand the maximum possible payout for your case. Get in touch with our motorcycle accident attorneys at Valley Injury Team today to get started with a free initial consultation.
