You might have done everything right when you were on your motorcycle. You followed all traffic laws, wore the proper protective equipment, and ensured you were aware of your surroundings. But a negligent motorist hit you anyway, and you suffered a severe injury as a result. Sometimes, a motorcycle accident is unavoidable. These mistakes, however, are.
The attorneys with Sand Law will help ensure you don’t encounter the same pitfalls that trap far too many personal injury plaintiffs. We’ll be with you throughout your case, answering all your questions and keeping you updated. Our lawyers will use their extensive experience and knowledge to help you obtain every penny of compensation you deserve.
Please don’t hesitate to contact us online or call 651-291-7263 for a free consultation.
1. Not Seeking Medical Treatment
Failing to seek immediate medical treatment after a motorcycle accident can have serious consequences. Even if you initially believe your injuries are minor or feel fine, some injuries may have delayed symptoms or be internal, such as internal bleeding, organ damage, or traumatic brain injuries. If you don’t see a doctor quickly, that could worsen your condition. Delaying medical attention could also cause long-term damage to your health.
Delaying treatment can hurt your case as well. The insurance company may argue that your injuries are unrelated to the accident. That argument will make it more challenging to establish a clear link between the accident and your injuries. Seeking prompt medical attention creates a documented record of your injuries and ensures that you receive appropriate care.
This documentation can be essential when filing an insurance claim or pursuing legal action. Medical records provide valuable evidence of the injuries sustained, the treatments received, and the associated costs.
2. Not Filing a Police Report
Failing to file a police report after a motorcycle accident is another significant mistake that can weaken your legal position. Involving law enforcement is crucial to your case.
When the police arrive at the scene, they’ll collect essential information and create an official report documenting the accident’s details. This report typically includes information such as the accident’s date, time, location, the parties involved, witness statements, and any citations or charges issued.
Having an official police report provides an objective account of the accident, which can be vital when dealing with insurance companies or pursuing legal action. Without a police report, it can become a case of your word against the other party involved. Having a report backing up your account of what happened will make it easier to establish liability.
What to Remember About Speaking to the Police
You must tell the truth to the officer, of course. But it’s just as critical to stick to the facts. Don’t volunteer your opinion regarding how the accident happened. Just tell the officer what you remember.
The reason is that the officer could construe your statement as accepting at least partial blame. They’ll write down everything you say. If it seems you’re admitting fault, that will be part of the report. The insurance company will use that to reduce or deny your claim.
3. Talking to the Insurance Company Without an Attorney
Speaking with an insurance company adjuster without the guidance of an attorney can be a mistake with lasting repercussions. Insurance adjusters are trained professionals who protect their company’s interests, often by minimizing claim payouts.
When you communicate directly with an insurance adjuster, they may attempt to obtain statements from you that could be used against you later in the claims process. They may try to convince you to admit fault or downplay the severity of your injuries to diminish the value of your claim.
Having an attorney by your side ensures your rights are protected, and you have the necessary guidance to navigate these conversations effectively. An attorney can help you understand what information to disclose and what not to say. Your lawyer can also tell you how to handle any tactics the insurance company uses to devalue your claim.
4. Accepting a Low Settlement Offer
Accepting a low settlement offer without seeking legal advice is one of the biggest mistakes any accident victim can make. This kind of mistake typically has long-term financial implications.
Insurance companies often aim to settle claims quickly and for the lowest possible amount to minimize their financial liability. When you accept a settlement offer without consulting an attorney, you may unknowingly undervalue your claim. Understanding the full extent of your injuries, damages, and future medical expenses is crucial before considering any settlement.
A skilled lawyer will know the actual value of your claim based on various factors such as medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and future rehabilitation costs. They can negotiate with the insurer, so you receive the compensation that covers all of your accident-related expenses – now and in the future.
If you agree to an insufficient settlement, you’ll be responsible for whatever expenses remain. We’ve seen cases where accident victims found themselves in financial misery. If you hire us, we’ll ensure this doesn’t happen to you.
5. Not Hiring an Attorney
Another significant mistake is choosing not to hire an attorney after a motorcycle accident. Motorcycle accidents often involve intricate legal and insurance issues, making it challenging for an individual to handle the complexities alone.
There are far too many instances where an accident victim will act as their own lawyer. This almost always ends in disaster. Self-represented plaintiffs typically lose. When they do, they have to pay all of their accident-related expenses. Unfortunately, this sometimes leads to financial ruin.
A knowledgeable personal injury attorney with Sand Law can provide invaluable expertise and guidance. We’ll gather crucial evidence, such as accident reports, medical records, and witness statements, to build a strong case on your behalf. Our lawyers know how to navigate the complexities of these kinds of cases. We also have a long track record of success.
Hopefully, you’ll hire our firm and avoid making any of the mistakes listed above. You can schedule a free evaluation of your case by using our online contact form or by calling 651-291-7263.