If you are involved in a motorcycle accident in Queensland, it is important to seek medical treatment, report the accident where required, and keep records relating to the incident.
The following information provides a general overview of practical steps that may assist following a motorcycle accident.
Immediate Safety and Medical Assistance
Following a motorcycle accident, the first priority is safety and medical attention.
If anyone is seriously injured, emergency services should be contacted by calling 000.
If ambulance treatment is not required at the scene, it may still be appropriate to attend a hospital or local doctor as soon as possible after the accident. Some injuries may not be fully apparent immediately after a motorcycle accident.
Reporting the Accident
Depending on the circumstances, a motorcycle accident may need to be reported to police.
It may assist to keep any police report number, event number, or other reference information provided after the accident is reported.
Collecting Information at the Scene
If it is safe to do so, it may assist to record information about the accident scene and the vehicles involved.
Relevant information may include:
- The registration numbers of vehicles involved;
- Driver licence details;
- Contact details for drivers and witnesses;
- Photographs of vehicle damage;
- Photographs of the accident location;
- Road conditions;
- Rraffic lights, signs, or intersections; and
- Any visible hazards or obstructions.
Photographs and records should only be taken where it is safe and appropriate to do so.
Medical Treatment and Records
Medical records may become relevant following a motorcycle accident.
It may assist to keep copies of:
- Hospital discharge summaries;
- General practitioner records;
- Specialist reports;
- Imaging or scan results;
- Physiotherapy or rehabilitation records;
- Prescriptions or medication records; and
- Medical certificates.
When seeking treatment, it is important to accurately explain how the accident occurred and the symptoms experienced.
Protective Clothing and Motorcycle Damage
In motorcycle accidents, protective clothing and equipment may also be relevant.
It may assist to keep or photograph:
- The motorcycle;
- Helmet damage;
- Riding jacket, pants, gloves, or boots;
- Damage to protective equipment; and
- Repair or towing records.
These records may assist in documenting the circumstances and impact of the accident.
CTP Insurance Matters
In Queensland, registered vehicles generally have compulsory third party, or CTP, insurance.
Following a motorcycle accident, different CTP insurers may become involved depending on the vehicles involved and the circumstances of the accident.
People involved in a motorcycle accident may wish to obtain legal advice about their circumstances and any rights or obligations that may arise in relation to a CTP insurance matter.
Medical assessment may assist with diagnosis and treatment following a motorcycle accident, including where symptoms are not immediately apparent.
It may assist to record vehicle registration details, driver information, witness details, photographs of the accident scene, medical records, and insurer correspondence.
It may assist to keep or photograph damaged riding equipment, including helmets, jackets, gloves, boots, or other protective gear.
CTP insurance may be relevant following motorcycle accidents involving registered vehicles in Queensland, depending on the circumstances of the accident.
The information on this page is general in nature and does not constitute legal advice.