Motorcycle accidents: Some of the Most Common Questions Answered

As Dublin's most established motorcycle solicitors, we often get questions about the specifics of motorcycle accidents.

This is hardly surprising. In the course of a day, we speak to dozens of individuals who have been injured while on their bikes.

While it's important to remember that no two motorcycle accidents are ever the same, there are a few almost universal commonalities. These include the importance of seeking medical attention and ensuring the relevant authorises record the accident, no matter how minor it may appear. For the convenience of our clients and the curious, we've compiled some of the most common questions below. Please keep in mind that this information is in no way a substitute for proper medical advice and, instead, should be viewed as a general overview. 

What to do after a motorcycle accident?

If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident, it is essential to follow these steps to ensure your safety.

Seek medical attention: Even if you feel fine, seeing a doctor as soon as possible after a motorcycle accident is important. Some injuries, such as head injuries, may not become apparent until later.
Call the Gardai: Contact the local Gardai to report the accident. 
Gather information: If possible, gather information from other drivers and witnesses at the scene, including their names, addresses, phone numbers, and insurance information. Take photos of the damage to your motorcycle and the surrounding area if you can.
Notify your insurance company: Contact your insurance company immediately to report the accident.
Keep track of expenses: Keep a record of all costs related to the accident, including medical bills, motorcycle repairs, and lost wages.
Contact a Solicitor: Consider hiring a personal injury solicitor if you have been injured and need help navigating the insurance claims process or if there is a dispute about who is at fault for the accident. We specialise in navigation personal injury claims related to motorbike accidents. 

How to remove a motorcycle helmet after an accident?

Removing a motorcycle helmet after an accident requires care and caution to avoid causing further injury. Here are the steps you should follow:

Call for medical assistance: If you or someone else has been injured in the accident, call for medical help immediately.
Assess the situation: Check the person for any obvious signs of spinal cord injury, such as difficulty moving the arms or legs, tingling, or numbness. Do not move the person or remove the helmet if you suspect a spinal cord injury. Wait for medical assistance to arrive.
Cut the straps: If the person is not suspected of having a spinal cord injury, you can remove the helmet. Cut the chin strap, leaving the helmet in place.
Gently remove the helmet: Hold the person's head steady with one hand and gently lift the helmet off with the other hand, taking care not to pull or twist the neck.
Stabilise the head and neck: Once the helmet is removed, stabilise the person's head and neck to prevent further movement that could cause injury. Wait for medical assistance to arrive.
 

In Ireland, what are the chances of getting in a motorcycle accident?

It's difficult to estimate the exact chances of getting in a motorcycle accident in Ireland. However, motorcycle accidents are common in many countries, including Ireland. According to the Road Safety Authority (RSA) of Ireland, motorcycles make up only 1% of the total vehicles on Irish roads, but they are involved in over 12% of all road fatalities.

The RSA also states that, in recent years, the number of motorcycle accidents and fatalities has decreased, but motorcyclists are still at a higher risk of being involved in a fatal accident than other road users.

It's important to note that the risk of getting into a motorcycle accident can be reduced by taking safety precautions such as wearing protective gear, taking motorcycle training courses, and following the road rules. Additionally, it's vital for all road users to be aware of motorcycles and to drive safely to help reduce the risk of accidents.

If you have more questions regarding the individual details of your motorcycle accident, please get in touch with our Dublin solicitors office today. You can schedule a convenient time to speak to our specialist motorcycle accident solicitors.