After a motorcycle accident, everything happens fast. One moment you are on the road, the next you are addressing insurance claim representatives, paying medical bills, and dealing with physical pain, in addition to that.
To get through all these steps, you need a plan. “A good plan keeps your rights safe, ensures you get the care you need, and prevents your bank account from taking a bigger hit than it should,” says attorney Michael P. McCready of McCreadyLaw Injury Attorneys.
This guide will detail what really matters after a motorcycle accident and how you can protect your rights.
Get Medical Attention
If you notice serious injuries, please call 911 as soon as you can. You can do a few things at the scene first if you have only bruises and feel okay. However, you must still go to your doctor’s checkup. Some injuries take a bit longer to show right away.
Early recourse to a doctor will provide you with important documentation right from the beginning, which makes it easier to trace your injuries to this accident at a later stage.
Evidence of physical injury is necessary if you want to file a damages claim, so even if you are not feeling anything, get yourself examined.
Collect Evidence Before You Leave the Scene
The next step is to document the scene and collect evidence. Use your cell phone and take pictures of all the damage caused to vehicles and signs. Do not forget to take pictures from different angles and of the injuries resulting from this accident.
Talk to witnesses and others involved. Write down their names and contact information. Be sure to record license plate numbers and insurance information. It is a beneficial idea to note where all occurrences took place.
Upon the police’s arrival at the scene, request their badge numbers and obtain a copy of the completed report. The sooner you collect this information, the better your chances of recovering fair compensation.
Let Your Insurance Company Know
Notifying your insurer is crucial, even if it is not your fault. In most cases in Illinois, you are required to provide quick notice of an accident to your insurer. Your insurance company may void your coverage if you fail to report your accident or take a long time to do so.
Please ensure you provide your insurance with all relevant information. Since you will have the opportunity to contact a motorcycle accident attorney, you should refrain from sharing your thoughts and simply provide the necessary information.
Watch What You Say and Share
Do not disclose much information regarding your motorcycle accident. At the scene, share the basics with anyone who asks. There is no need to point out fault for the accident, apologize for it, or discuss how it actually occurred.
If the other side’s insurance adjuster contacts you, please keep your response brief. Their job is to reduce the value of your claim. Do not record a statement until you have talked to a lawyer.
Be quiet in your social network as well, and do not share much information even with your friends. The opposing counsel can twist an innocent-looking piece of information against you. Be cautious here, and you will save a lot later.
Why Work with a Lawyer?
After your motorcycle accident, a trustworthy attorney is more than just someone who completes paperwork. They’ll help you understand your rights and fight insurers to protect you. These professionals uncover the evidence, track down your medical records, and vigorously advocate for the compensation you deserve.
Choose a lawyer with extensive knowledge of motorcycle cases in the State of Illinois. Analyze feedback from their other clients. Discuss their experience in handling similar cases with them. Spend time with these professionals before you make a final decision. The right motorcycle accident lawyer will help take some of the burden off your shoulders and let you focus on getting your life back together.
Conclusion
Being involved in a motorcycle accident is a harrowing ordeal for anyone. However, by following essential steps, such as seeking immediate medical attention, securing evidence at the accident scene, notifying your insurer, sharing need-to-know information, and working with a trustworthy attorney, you will set yourself up for a better chance at recovery.