While motorcycling can provide an exhilarating experience, it is not without its inherent dangers. Despite taking all necessary precautions, accidents can still happen, leaving riders vulnerable to severe injuries and significant financial losses. In such situations, having a skilled and experienced motorcycle accident lawyer by your side can make a tremendous difference in securing the compensation you deserve.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcycle fatalities increased by 7.7% in 2021, highlighting the importance of legal representation for motorcycle accident victims. A knowledgeable attorney can navigate the complex legal landscape, protect your rights, and ensure you receive fair compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Which Skills Should the Preferential Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Possess?
When searching for the best motorcycle accident lawyer, consider the following essential abilities:
- Wide-ranging Experience in Motorbike Accident Cases: Seek a lawyer who has a track record of effectively managing cases involving motorbike accidents. They should have in-depth knowledge of the unique challenges and nuances associated with these types of accidents, such as road hazards, driver negligence, and bias against motorcycle riders.
- Comprehensive Understanding of Motorcycle Laws and Regulations: A skilled motorcycle accident lawyer should be well-versed in state and federal laws pertaining to motorcycle operation, safety regulations, and insurance coverage. This knowledge is crucial in building a strong case and ensuring your rights are protected.
- Aggressive Negotiation and Litigation Skills: While many motorcycle accident cases are settled out of court, your attorney should possess exceptional negotiation skills to secure a fair settlement. However, if negotiations fail, they must be prepared to take your case to trial and litigate aggressively on your behalf.
- Compassionate and Attentive to Client Needs: Motorcycle accidents can be traumatic experiences, both physically and emotionally. Your lawyer should be empathetic, attentive to your needs, and committed to keeping you informed throughout the legal process.
- Access to Expert Witnesses: Complex motorcycle accident cases often require the testimony of expert witnesses, such as accident reconstructionists, medical professionals, and engineering experts. Your attorney should have a network of credible experts to strengthen your case.
- Proven Track Record of Securing Maximum Compensation: Ultimately, you want an attorney with a history of obtaining substantial settlements and verdicts for their clients. Review their case results and client testimonials to gauge their effectiveness in securing fair compensation.
READ ALSO ON: How Do You Respond to a Motorcycle Accident?
What Occurs in the Event of a Motorcycle Collision?
If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, taking the proper steps immediately can significantly impact the outcome of your case. Here’s what you should do:
- Remain Calm and Call for Emergency Medical Assistance: Your safety and well-being should be the top priority. Call 911 or ask someone nearby to summon emergency medical services, even if your injuries seem minor.
- Move to a Safe Area (If Possible): If you are able to move without exacerbating your injuries, relocate to a safe area away from ongoing traffic. This will prevent further accidents and allow emergency responders to assist you more easily.
- Gather Evidence at the Scene: Capture photographic and video documentation of the accident location, encompassing pertinent details such as vehicle positions, road conditions, and observable injuries, if feasible. Additionally, gather the contact details of any witnesses who may have observed the incident of the accident.
- Avoid Admitting Fault or Making Statements to Insurance Companies: Never admit fault or make any statements that could be used against you later. Politely decline to provide a recorded statement to insurance companies until you have consulted with an attorney.
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine after the accident, it’s crucial to seek medical attention as soon as possible. Some injuries, such as internal bleeding or concussions, may not be immediately apparent, and prompt treatment can prevent further complications.
- Contact a Reputable Motorcycle Accident Lawyer: As soon as possible, contact a reputable motorcycle accident lawyer who can protect your rights and guide you through the legal process. They can advise you on the next steps and ensure you do not inadvertently jeopardize your case.
You increase your chances of receiving equitable compensation for your losses and injuries, safeguard yourself, and preserve evidence by adhering to these steps.
READ ALSO ON: What Abilities Should the Best Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Have?
How to Respond to a Motorcycle Accident?
After seeking medical attention and contacting a motorcycle accident lawyer, there are several important steps you should take to properly respond to the accident:
- Notify Your Insurance Company About the Accident: You are typically required to inform your insurance company about the accident within a specific timeframe, as outlined in your policy. However, it is best to avoid providing a recorded statement or discussing fault until you have consulted with your attorney.
- Cooperate with Law Enforcement but Avoid Self-Incrimination: If the police arrive at the accident scene, cooperate fully by providing your information and a brief account of what happened. But refrain from saying anything that can be taken as an admission of liability or fault.
- Keep Detailed Records of All Expenses, Medical Treatment, and Lost Wages: Maintain meticulous records of all expenses related to the accident, including medical bills, repair costs, and any lost wages or income due to your injuries. These records will be crucial in calculating the compensation you are owed.
- Follow Your Doctor’s Treatment Plan and Attend All Appointments: Adhere strictly to your doctor’s recommended treatment plan, including attending all follow-up appointments and therapy sessions. Failing to do so could be used by the insurance company to argue that your injuries are not as severe as claimed.
- Avoid Discussing the Accident or Posting About It on Social Media: Refrain from discussing the accident details or your injuries on social media platforms, as these posts could be used against you by the opposing party’s legal team.
- Let Your Lawyer Handle All Communication with the Other Party’s Insurance Company: Your motorcycle accident lawyer should handle all communication and negotiations with the other party’s insurance company. They will protect your interests and ensure that you do not inadvertently say or do anything that could compromise your case.
By following these steps, you can protect your legal rights, strengthen your case, and increase your chances of receiving fair compensation for your injuries and losses resulting from the motorcycle accident.
What to Do After Your First Motorcycle Crash?
Experiencing a motorcycle crash can be a traumatic and life-altering event, both physically and emotionally. In addition to seeking legal representation and following the proper steps to protect your rights, there are several other important considerations after your first motorcycle accident:
- Seek Emotional Support and Counseling, If Needed: Motorcycle accidents can be incredibly stressful and traumatic experiences. Do not hesitate to seek emotional support and counseling services to help you cope with the physical and psychological aftermath of the accident.
- Follow Up with Your Lawyer Regularly for Case Updates: Maintain regular communication with your motorcycle accident lawyer throughout the legal process. They should keep you informed about the progress of your case, any developments, and the next steps to be taken.
- Be Patient and Allow Time for the Legal Process to Unfold: While you may be eager to resolve your case quickly, it is important to be patient and allow the legal process to unfold at its necessary pace. Rushing or accepting a low settlement offer could jeopardize your ability to receive fair compensation.
- Consider Joining a Motorcycle Advocacy Group for Support and Resources: Joining a local or national motorcycle advocacy group can provide you with a supportive community of fellow riders who understand the challenges you are facing. These groups can offer valuable resources, advice, and assistance as you navigate the legal process.
- Take Steps to Protect Your Rights and Future Claims: Depending on the circumstances of your accident and the extent of your injuries, you may need to take additional steps to protect your rights and ensure that you can pursue future claims if necessary. Your attorney can recommend the most effective course of action.
By taking these proactive measures, you can better cope with the aftermath of your first motorcycle crash, protect your legal rights, and increase your chances of achieving a favorable outcome in your case.