A motorcyclist is left vulnerable because they are exposed to potential dangers on the road without protecting a vehicle surrounding them. Therefore, regardless of who is responsible or is at fault, it is always best to seek legal counsel immediately when involved in a motorcycle accident. A motorcycle attorney can help deal with insurance companies, help get medical treatment scheduled, and get the compensation needed to recover from the accident.
Statute of Limitations
One of the most significant reasons to hire a motorcycle attorney sooner than later is to ensure the case is filed before the statute of limitations passes. Every state has a different time frame for statute of limitations on motorcycle accidents, and it is best to consult with an attorney soon after the accident. Waiting too long to file the claim could result in being too late and missing out on necessary compensation.
Additionally, there are different statutes of limitations for differing motorcycle cases. Differences in timeframes may include if there was a death or if it involved significant injuries. Once the statute of limitations has passed, a person is not allowed to file a claim or case regarding the accident.
Evidence Collection
Waiting too long to hire a motorcycle accident attorney makes collecting evidence challenging. Additionally, it is difficult to determine details related to the accident by looking at a motorcycle unless a person is knowledgeable in motorcycle mechanics. An attorney specializing in motorcycle cases understands what to look for and can help collect evidence to present the strongest case possible.
Additionally, the sooner an attorney is hired, the less likely any potential evidence, such as video, photos, and physical evidence at the scene of the accident, goes missing or becomes damaged.
Cause of the Accident
When there is doubt about who or what was responsible for the motorcycle accident, it is time to hire an attorney. The attorney has the experience and a knowledgeable team to investigate the accident to help determine the root cause of the accident. Common causes of motorcycle accidents include blind spots, drunk driving, distracted driving, aggressive driving, tailgating, poor road conditions, weather conditions, and mechanical defects.
For those who are unsure of the cause of their accident, it is best to seek counsel from an attorney experienced in handling motorcycle accident cases.
When There are Injuries
Though it is always best to seek legal guidance when involved in a motorcycle crash, it is even more important to see an attorney when suffering from accident-related injuries. The lawyer can speak with insurance companies and medical professionals to provide the necessary medical treatment while recovering from the accident.
Common motorcycle accident injuries may include:
- Fractures
- Sprains
- Dislocations
- Eye injuries
- Internal damage
- Soft tissue damage
- Traumatic brain injuries
When there are damages
Many people who have been involved in a motorcycle accident also experience financial struggles, which can be compensated by speaking with an attorney and filing a personal injury case. Common expenses for those interested in a motorcycle accident may include:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Property damage
In addition to economic damages, several motorcycle accident victims also suffer non-economic damages. Common non-economic damages may include:
- Pain and suffering
- Wrongful death
- Emotional trauma
Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Crash
In addition to seeking legal representation, there are several things someone who has been involved in a motorcycle accident should do. The steps to take after an accident include the following:
- Ensure the accident scene is in a safe location or if possible, move everyone off to the side of the road.
- Check everyone for injuries and, if needed, call for an ambulance.
- Call 911 for police assistance.
- Seek medical attention, even if there are no signs of physical injury at the time of the crash.
- Collect information about the accident, each driver involved in the accident, and eyewitnesses, including name, contact information, and insurance details.
- If capable, collect evidence from the accident scene, including photos of the damage, road conditions, injuries, and more.
- Avoid giving statements to other drivers, police officers, or insurance companies.
- Do not apologize for the accident.
- Keep a written journal about what happened during and after the accident, including the healing and recovery process.
- Call to speak with a motorcycle attorney to help advocate for the best compensation possible based on the accident and injuries sustained.
Working with a motorcycle attorney can help ensure someone is fighting for the maximum compensation on behalf of the client. Seek a motorcycle lawyer with great success handling these types of injury cases and who has an in-depth knowledge of traffic law. Victims of a motorcycle accident should ask their attorney any questions and keep open lines of communication, ensuring they have everything needed to win the case.
