Getting the compensation needed to recover from a motorcycle accident isn’t always easy. An at-fault motorist may try to shift blame, and their insurer may minimize your injuries, just to name two common scenarios. These claims are often complex, but your legal rights should be protected.
What Are Your Rights Following a Motorcycle Accident?
If you weren’t responsible for the accident, you shouldn’t have to pay the cost of recovery—and you can pursue legal damages after a motorcycle crash. When other motorists are careless and cause accidents, they’ve behaved negligently and failed in the duty to operate a vehicle safely.
While it’s possible to seek compensation by filing a claim with the other person’s insurer, these companies typically look for ways to reduce payouts. Protect your rights by gathering evidence of the at-fault driver’s negligent behavior, your losses, and the accident itself.
Document Everything
The most appropriate time to gather evidence of a motorcycle accident is immediately after it occurs. If you’re physically able to do so, compile information for an insurance claim, such as:
- Pictures of damaged property, your bike, and the accident scene
- The names, insurance information, and contact information of involved drivers
- The names and contact information of witnesses
- An accident report from the local authorities
- Notes about what happened before, during, and after the incident
Of all these pieces of evidence, witness information and pictures are some of the most helpful. Your accident attorney can obtain witnesses’ statements and compile information that proves the other driver’s responsibility.
Get Checked Out
Even if the injury seems minor, seek medical attention as soon as possible after a motorcycle accident. Seeing a physician creates a record of the event, and if treatment is delayed too long, the other driver’s insurer may claim that the injury was minor or pre-existing.
Keep Records of All Expenses and Losses
After the accident, start a file where you’ll keep copies of medical bills, prescription receipts, doctor’s notes, the accident report, repair quotes, and other documents. To build a solid case, you’ll need to keep precise records of all costs and damages related to the accident. Your attorney can help you get the necessary information.
Don’t Sign an Insurance Statement
Insurers are in the business to make a profit, and they do so by paying as little as possible for claims. If this fact isn’t kept in mind, the other driver’s insurer will easily take advantage of your situation. Don’t accept a check, sign a document, or provide a recorded statement because the insurance company is trying to get you to relinquish your rights. It’s generally a good idea to have all insurance communications directed to your attorney.
Call an Accident Attorney
The best way to protect your rights after a motorcycle accident is to contact an attorney who understands personal injury law and has previously handled similar cases. A lawyer will help create a strong claim, stop insurance companies from mistreating you, and ensure that your rights are protected.
If you were hurt in a motorcycle crash, we want to ensure that your rights are protected every step of the way. The firm has been helping injured riders for years, and they’d love to put their experience to work for you. Request additional information online or call today for a free consultation.