4 Mistakes That Could Cost You Your Motorcycle Accident Claim Jun 28, 2022
Each year, nearly 89,000 motorcyclists in the US get involved in accidents. When you are a victim of a motorcycle accident caused by a reckless road user, you are entitled to compensation from the negligent party’s insurance company.
Your actions immediately after a motorcycle accident and when filing your claim have a bearing on the outcome of your case. Thus, you must avoid mistakes that may compromise your claim. Read on to learn about four costly mistakes to avoid if you want a successful outcome in your motorcycle accident injury claim.
1. Failing to Seek Medical Care
After a motorcycle accident, most people fail to seek medical attention if they have no visible injuries. The adrenaline coursing through your body and the shock after a motorcycle accident may prevent you from feeling pain. But even if you feel fine, you need to see a doctor soon after the accident for two reasons.
First, you may have a hidden injury that may later develop into a life-threatening condition. Secondly, when you see a doctor, you have a chance to get a documented report showing the extent of your injuries.
A doctor’s report is vital in a motorcycle accident injury claim because the insurance company may question the extent of your injuries or claim that they are not accident-related to reduce your settlement.
2. Not Gathering Evidence
Without evidence, your claim lacks credibility. Thus, you are likely to lose the case. Evidence provides your attorney with the necessary information to build your case against the at-fault driver. Vital evidence to gather for a motorcycle accident injury claim includes:
- A record of medical treatment expenses related to the accident
- A doctor’s report indicating the nature and extent of your injuries
- Property damage repair costs
- Pictures of the accident scene
- Pictures of your injuries
- Pictures showing damage to your motorcycle and property
Avoid repairing your motorcycle or any property damaged during the accident before the claim gets settled. Do not also replace any gear, such as your helmet if it was lost or damaged during the accident, as this complicates proving your claim.
Ensure you also record any productive time or income-earning opportunities lost after the accident to strengthen your claim.
3. Not Informing Your Insurance Provider About the Accident
Many people involved in motorcycle accidents do not report the incident to their insurance company. You need to file a claim with your insurance provider after an accident caused by a negligent third party, and you have an obligation to report the accident.
Sometimes, the at-fault driver does not have adequate insurance or is uninsured. In such instances, if your insurance company already knows about the accident, they may give you coverage.
Negligent drivers sometimes fail to report accidents to their insurance companies to avoid looking guilty for the incident. Thus, failing to report the accident makes you look like you are hiding something. Report the accident to demonstrate your willingness to do the right thing.
4. Not Hiring a Motorcycle Accident Attorney
You do yourself a great disservice by failing to hire an experienced motorcycle accident injury attorney after the accident. An attorney advises you on mistakes to avoid in your claim. They also help you gather evidence and build a winning case.
An attorney represents you during negotiations with the negligent driver’s attorney and their insurance provider, ensuring they do not lowball you on the compensation.
If negotiations with the insurance company fail, your lawyer files a lawsuit and represents you in the trial to ensure you get the justice you deserve. Do not despair if you have already made any of the above mistakes. You can turn things around with the right attorney in your corner and maximize your claim.
The experienced attorneys at Bradley, Drendel & Jeanney have handled many motorcycle accident injury claims and know how to build a winning case. Contact us today to consult on your motorcycle accident injury case.