Riding through the rolling hills of Tennessee on a motorcycle can be an incredible experience. However, motorcycle riders must be prepared for the realities of sharing the road with larger vehicles. When a collision occurs, motorcycle riders are far more vulnerable to serious or even fatal injuries compared to drivers of cars and trucks. That’s why seeking prompt medical attention after any motorcycle accident in Tennessee is absolutely crucial, even if your injuries seem minor at first.
Adrenaline Can Mask Injuries
After a motorcycle crash, your body will release adrenaline and endorphins. This rush of hormones triggers the “fight or flight” response, designed to help you take action in an emergency.
While this can help you remain calm and alert at the scene, it can also mask underlying injuries. You may feel fine immediately after the accident, only to experience pain and other symptoms later as the adrenaline wears off.
Some injuries, like internal bleeding or fractures, may not be obvious. Even mild head injuries can worsen rapidly. It’s better to get checked out at the hospital right away, rather than take a “wait and see” approach.
Medical Records Help Document Your Injuries
Seeking prompt medical attention creates important documentation of your injuries. Your medical records will note the date of treatment, the tests performed, and the diagnoses.
This evidence can help prove your injuries were caused by the motorcycle accident, rather than any pre-existing condition. Documented injuries may also increase the value of an insurance claim or lawsuit.
Follow Your Doctor’s Ongoing Treatment Recommendations
The initial ER visit is just the starting point. Follow up regularly with the specialists your doctor recommends, like neurologists for brain injuries or orthopedists for broken bones.
Don’t skip recommended tests and therapies. Ongoing treatment shows you are taking your recovery seriously. Gaps in treatment can weaken your injury claim.
Missed Injuries Can Worsen
One of the biggest risks of skipping medical care is that hidden injuries can get worse. A concussion that goes untreated can develop into lasting brain damage. Internal bleeding can advance and become life-threatening.
Orthopedic injuries like fractures or sprains may heal improperly without proper treatment, limiting function. Early treatment gives you the best chance of a full recovery.
Tennessee Motorcycle Insurance Coverage
Under Tennessee law, all motorcyclists must carry liability insurance. This covers damage you cause to others. However, it does NOT cover your own medical bills or lost wages.
To cover injuries to you and any passengers, you need additional medical payments, personal injury protection (PIP), and uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. Unfortunately, many riders cut costs by skipping this recommended coverage.
If you don’t have adequate insurance, the costs of injuries and missed work can pile up fast. Experienced Tennessee motorcycle accident lawyers can help you recover maximum compensation under your policy.
Act Fast to Preserve Evidence
It’s important to act quickly following a motorcycle crash to preserve evidence that could help your injury claim. Take photos of the accident scene, damage to vehicles, and any visible injuries. Get contact info for witnesses.
Save any helmets or clothing damaged in the collision. Request police reports and traffic camera footage. All of this must be gathered immediately, before it disappears.
Contact a Tennessee Motorcycle Accident Attorney
A motorcycle wreck can lead to serious, lifelong injuries. An experienced lawyer will protect your rights and make sure you receive full and fair compensation.
The motorcycle accident attorneys at Monge & Associates offer free consultations to injury victims and their families. With 32 offices in 19 states, including Tennessee, Maryland, and South Carolina, we have helped thousands of clients nationwide recover millions in compensation. To get started with a free case review, call us today at (888) 477-0597.