As we approach riding season in North Dakota, it is important to review safety measures to avoid motorcycle accidents. Riders will be on the roads throughout the state, including Minot, Bismarck, Grand Forks, and Fargo. Unfortunately, it is also essential to review the steps riders should take after a motorcycle accident to protect their rights. Our Bismarck motorcycle accident lawyers provide tips and information in this blog.
Safety Tips to Reduce the Risk of a Motorcycle Accident in North Dakota
All persons on the road have a duty of care to take reasonable steps to avoid accidents, including motorcyclists and other drivers, truckers, bicyclists, and pedestrians. Safety tips for motorcyclists include:
- Take a motorcycle rider safety course to learn driving skills that could help avoid an accident.
- Wear motorcycle helmets and protective gear to reduce the risk of injuries in accidents.
- Always ride sober. Impaired driving was involved in over 40% of motorcycle deaths in 2021.
- Watch for other drivers and conditions that could cause an accident.
- Maintain your motorcycle in excellent condition.
- Follow all traffic laws and regulations.
Motorcyclists can take steps to avoid a car accident, but they cannot control what other drivers do on the road. Therefore, drivers also have a duty of care to take steps to avoid crashes with motorcycles.
Drivers need to be aware of motorcyclists and watch for them at intersections and in congested traffic. They should be cautious when changing lanes and double-check blind spots. Drivers need to avoid distractions and impaired driving, which could increase the risk of an accident in Jamestown or Devils Lake.
Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident in Bismarck, ND
If you are injured in a motorcycle accident in Rugby, Williston, or the surrounding areas, the steps you take after the crash could help improve your chances of receiving a fair settlement for damages. Things to keep in mind after a motorcycle crash include:
- Call 911 to report the crash to the police. Even minor accidents should be reported to the police.
- Document the accident scene with photographs and videos. Try to capture any evidence at the scene that can help prove why the crash occurred.
- Ask eyewitnesses to give you their names and contact details.
- Never admit fault or say you are sorry for the crash. Instead, give the police officer the facts without making assumptions about who is responsible for the crash.
- As soon as possible, see a doctor or go to the emergency room. Failing to seek prompt medical treatment can hurt your accident claim.
It can also be wise to speak with a Bismarck motorcycle accident. An insurance adjuster might try to discuss the accident with you. The adjuster may ask you questions on a recorded line or ask you to consent to a statement.
Providing a statement or answering questions without legal advice is not in your best interest. The insurance company may twist your statements to imply you contributed to the cause of the crash. If so, the company will allege comparative negligence to deny or undervalue your claim. It is best to allow your attorney to handle all communications with the insurance company.
Learn More from Our Bismarck Motorcycle Accident Attorneys
If a negligent driver causes your accident, you could be entitled to compensation for damages. Call Pringle & Herigstad, P.C. to schedule a consultation with our Bismarck motorcycle accident attorneys to discuss your legal options.
