A Complete Guide to Motorcycle Accident Claims and Settlements
The time after a motorcycle accident can end up all being a blur once everything is said and done. The emergency care needed, dealing with insurance companies, and more can all be a lot to handle, so it is important for motorcyclists to know what they need to do and how they can get help. Those who are severely injured in the accident or who want to make sure they get the right amount of compensation after the accident will want to speak with a lawyer about their case.
What Steps to Take Immediately After the Accident
Immediately after the accident, there are some things the motorcyclist can do that will help when pursuing damages after a motorcycle injury. They should call for emergency assistance to get medical care and a police report for the accident. If possible, it is a good idea for them to document the scene and exchange information with the other driver. If there are any witnesses, it is a good idea to write down their information, as their statements may be needed later. The key focus, however, should be on getting medical care, especially for severe injuries.
How to Determine Liability
It may be necessary to prove liability to determine who to sue after the accident. If the accident was caused by someone other than the other driver, for instance, a claim against the other driver may be denied. Depending on the cause of the accident, liable parties could include the other driver, their employer if they were in a commercial vehicle at the time of the accident, a government agency if the accident was caused by poor road conditions, or the motorcycle manufacturer if the accident was caused by faulty parts.
How to File an Insurance Claim
The motorcyclist will need to file an insurance claim as soon as possible after the accident. It is important to have legal assistance during this stage, as the rider won’t want to accidentally say something that could be used to deny the claim. They may need to file a claim with their own insurance company as well as the company covering the liable party. The claim is an official request for compensation, so it should be as thorough as possible and include all expenses that need to be covered by the compensation.
Know What Compensation Can Include
There are a lot of expenses that can be covered by the compensation, not just the original emergency medical care. The settlement may also cover other medical expenses such as surgeries, physical therapy for recovery, and prescription medications. It can also cover lost wages or loss of earning potential, property damage, and any other expenses directly related to the accident. For severe or permanent injuries, it could also include funds to hire help as needed. Often, the claim will include a request for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other types of compensation based on the severity of the accident.
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, now’s a good time to speak with a lawyer to see how they can help you. As you recover, the lawyer can work on your case and help you get the compensation needed to cover all expenses from the accident. Schedule your consultation today to see what they can do to help you.