When you’re involved in a wreck, things happen very quickly. As a motorcycle rider you should always be prepared in case the worst does happen.

Whether you go down and get injured, cause property damage or were involved in an accident that wasn’t your fault, there are some simple things you should do to make sure whatever happened you stay in control.

Keep this checklist with you any time you ride. If you ride in a group, make sure all people in the group have this same checklist. Keep one copy in your wallet and keep the other in your right, front pants pocket. And if you’re riding by yourself, be sure to let someone know you are going riding and when you will return.

The checklist should start with your basic information:

Name: Your Name

Address: 555 Your Street Name

Address: City, State and Zip

Phone: Phone Number

Contact: Who to contact and the phone number to call

Medical: Any medical conditions and insurance information

At the accident scene here are some very important things to remember.

The events of the accident cannot be reversed. There’s no point in arguing with the other driver or police officers. When the fault is unclear, arguing may sway the police analysis in favor the other party.

Make sure medical personnel are called to the scene or get treatment as soon as possible if there is even a remote chance you sustained injuries. Remember, some injuries are not obvious and a precautionary examination is always advisable.

Law enforcement officers will document the accident and take witness statements. The police may not respond if there are no injuries or there is no property damage. Make sure you get all license, vehicle and insurance information from the other party.

You should give your version of the accident to police only if you can think clearly. If you feel some initial confusion, just give a general summary and ask that you be contacted later. If you are under the influence of medication or in pain, you may not be able to recall all of the details causing you to give inaccurate information. You should report the accident to your own insurance company. If you think you may retain a lawyer, consult with your attorney before making any statements.

Even if the other driver admits fault, they may tell a different story later. Make sure you obtain the identifying information of all witnesses who witnessed the accident.

Be sure to document the scene by taking clear pictures. Get a friend to help you if you need it. Photographs of the damage to your motorcycle and damaged gear may not only show the actual damage, but they may also provide evidence of how the accident occurred. Photographs of the injuries are also extremely helpful when it comes time to resolve the case.

Resist the temptation to throw out your damaged gear. You may be able to recover for its value and it also may provide evidence of how the accident happened.

Get your motorcycle out of storage if it was towed. If you have collision insurance, your own insurance company should arrange for the motorcycle to be inspected and retrieved. If your motorcycle is left at an impound or tow yard, you could be charged storage fees so its important to get it out of impound or the tow yard as soon as possible.

If you intend to file a personal injury claim, you will need to document your injuries and treatment. Although home remedies sometimes work, using them will make it difficult to prove your claim. Similarly, if you’re making a lost income claim, you will need documentation. If your doctor orders you off work, ask him or her to include that instruction in your medical records and provide you with a disability slip.

No matter what type of case, motorcycle crashes or otherwise, if you decide to retain a lawyer, choose one with a track record in the field. Motorcycle-related cases often require specific knowledge other attorneys may not possess. Lawyers like Russ Brown and Chuck Koro are avid motorcycle riders and have a specialty dealing with motorcycle cases. Whoever you decide on, discuss the general objectives of your claim with your lawyer so your expectations are realistic.  It’s important that you and your attorney are on the same page. Cooperation is very important, especially if a lawsuit is filed.