Motorcycle Accident Injury
When to Hire a Motorcycle Accident Attorney
A biker involved in an accident does not have the benefit of airbags or other safety features commonly outfitted for the typical automobile. Even with years of riding and defensive driving experience, a collision can result in serious injuries. Insurance companies will often stereotype a motorcycle rider as reckless simply for being a biker. Know your rights. If you’ve suffered an injury after an accident, it’s time to hire a motorcycle accident attorney.
When you are injured in a motorcycle accident, the amount of compensation you ultimately receive from a negligent driver depends on the experience and skills of the motorcycle accident attorney you hire to represent you. You need an advocate to fight for medical expenses, lost income, and additional damages such as pain and suffering.
At Bighorn Law, our team of men and women are not only comprised of experienced motorcycle accident attorneys – we ride. We understand what it’s like to be responsible riders. Our lawyers have fought for the rights of injured riders and their families for years.
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What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident
As both riders and lawyers at Bighorn Law, we are strong believers that you should seek medical attention after a motorcycle accident. You may not immediately feel or notice your injuries, so always check in with the paramedics at the scene.
All vehicle collisions have the potential to cause serious injury, but some injuries are unique to motorcycle crashes, such as road rash, and can range from minor to disabling, such as:
- Facial Fractures
- Broken Bones
- Concussion
- Whiplash
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
- Burns
- Disfigurement
- Spinal Cord Injuries
- Amputations
- Nerve Damage
Even the stress of motorcycle accident injuries may lead to depression and anxiety and the injuries themselves make everyday life more difficult. We can help.
If you’re unsure whether or not to talk to a motorcycle accident attorney because you don’t think your injuries were “severe” enough, or you’re not sure who might be at fault – you risk nothing by talking to one of our attorneys. We want to hear your story. It’s always confidential and free.
1. Safety First
If you are able to, remove yourself from harms way. Get off the road and out of traffic.
2. Do Not Remove Your Helmet or Gear
Your neck and spine need to stay protected. Always wait for paramedics.
3. Call 911
Do not leave the scene before the paramedics or police arrive. Assess the scene around you as best you can. This will work to your advantage.
4. Seek Medical Attention
Even if you think you are okay. Serious injuries are not always readily identifiable. Motorcycle crashes tend to be more serious due to the potential for organ damage or internal bleeding from the blunt force of the crash and impact to your midsection.
5. Keep Calm
Do not do anything that will put you or others at risk of injury or cause further property damage.
6. Inform Your Insurance Company
Promptly tell your insurance company you’ve been in an accident. Cooperate with them and tell them the truth about what happened and the extent of your injuries. Explain the facts clearly. Obtain and review any police report filed, so you can point out who broke what traffic laws or who was at fault.
7. Keep Track of Your Medical Treatment
Note any doctors, physical therapists, chiropractors, or other medical professionals that you receive treatment from, and each medical provider that referred you to other caregivers. Keep a detailed account of the treatments and/or medications you receive. Also, request copies of all medical reports and bills as these help you prove your medical expenses later.
Medical expenses are relatively easy to document, but pain and suffering is trickier to prove. Keep a record of how your injuries have impacted your daily life. Include any missed workdays, list any routine activities you can’t undertake, and describe how the injuries have affected your family life.
8. Take Pictures
Take photographs of any damage to your vehicle as soon as possible after the accident. Photos helps your insurance adjuster determine how much you should be compensated for the damage to your car and can help in court.
9. Get a Property Damage Valuation
Obtain your insurance company’s damage valuation. If you aren’t satisfied with how your insurance company has valued your vehicle, don’t give up. Get two independent repair estimates or replacement quotes. Assertively inform the adjuster of your concerns. If you can’t agree on your car’s value, consider mediation or consult your attorney.
10. Obtain an Attorney
An attorney can help you maximize your recovery claim if you’re injured. Many accident attorneys work on a contingency fee basis, which means that your lawyer only receives a fee if you’re awarded damages or receive a settlement. Call us today and tell us your story.
Use Caution in Discussing the Incident
Don’t talk about the accident to anyone other than your lawyer, your insurance company, and the police. Don’t talk to a representative from another insurance company without first consulting your attorney. If called by the other insurance company, be polite, but ask them to call your attorney to arrange an interview. Also, tell your lawyer about the call.
Be Wary of Early Settlement Offers
Be careful if you’re offered a settlement from an insurance company. Confirm all your physical injuries have been treated. Some injuries don’t show up or reach their greatest level of discomfort until many days, weeks, or months later. Don’t settle a claim until you know you’ll be compensated for all your injuries, and consult your attorney before signing any settlement documents.