Being in an accident is a stressful, overwhelming, and painful event. Motorcycle accidents, however, can be particularly devastating to riders and passengers. In fact, the National National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates the risk of death from a motorcycle accident is nearly 30 times higher than a car wreck. If you’ve been in a motorcycle crash, the last thing you need to deal with is an insurance company attempting to pay you less than you deserve or trying to deny your claim outright.
Many people try to pursue their claim on their own, thinking their injuries don’t rise to the level of needing a lawyer, or they think they can navigate the personal injury claims process on their own. However, the best way to ensure your best interests are represented every step of the way is by working with a qualified and experienced attorney.
Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Determine Liability
In order to receive the full justice you deserve, the “motorcycle accident attorneys near me” will first analyze the facts of your case in order to determine who exactly was at fault. Establishing liability after an accident isn’t as straightforward as some believe – local, state, and federal laws will all impact who is determined to be at fault. The laws will impact how responsible they are for damages caused by the crash.
Without a skilled attorney on your side, insurance companies can use legal arguments that can shift fault for the accident to you.
Investigate the Accident and Gather Evidence
Your lawyer will support your claim by investigating the accident and collecting evidence that supports your claim. Evidence includes:
- Witness statements from people who saw the accident
- Pictures and measurements from the scene
- Video evidence such as traffic or security cameras
- The police report from the accident
- Damage to the vehicles involved in the crash
- Medical records and bills related to your injuries
Contact an attorney right away after an accident to allow them to conduct the most thorough investigation and collect the strongest evidence possible.
Representing You Throughout the Claims Process
Your lawyer can take the lead on the entire claims process so you can rely on their expertise and experience when filling out paperwork, creating a complete claim including all evidence regarding injuries and expenses as well as evidence establishing liability. They will also communicate with insurance adjusters on your behalf to counter any attempts to reduce compensation or deny your claim.
They will also support you throughout the process, explaining your options and helping you understand what to expect each step of the way.
Negotiating on Your Behalf
Most motorcycle accident claims are resolved via a settlement negotiated between you and the responsible party’s insurance company. These insurance companies and their lawyers have one goal during settlement negotiations: pay as little as they can and deny the claim if possible. Your motorcycle accident attorney will be your representative during these negotiations and use their experience to counter the insurance company’s claims. Their skills will help ensure you receive the maximum compensation.
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle wreck, it’s vital to have an attorney on your side as soon as the accident occurs. They will work to establish who is responsible for the accident and how much compensation you deserve, build and pursue the strongest claim possible, and represent your interests during settlement negotiations. A skilled and experienced attorney will work to protect your rights in the event of an accident and help you receive the full justice you deserve.