Posted on Friday, May 11th, 2018 at 4:29 pm
Sacramento is a wonderful place to enjoy riding a motorcycle. Motorcycles are also a terrific way to get around the city and congested areas because they are much better on gas mileage. However, motorcycles are not great at protecting a rider during a crash. A rider can suffer catastrophic injuries in a motorcycle accident that can leave him with substantial medical debts, intense physical pain, permanent disabilities, and great emotional distress.
It is natural to want to pursue a claim against the other driver or the party who caused the crash. You did not cause the accident, so why should you be responsible for paying the bills and other costs associated with the crash?
However, it is important that you do not fight this battle alone. Insurance companies prefer to deal directly with accident victims because they believe they can pay much less to get rid of the injury claim. The insurance adjusters know you may be unaware of all your legal rights and they have no intention of explaining these rights to you. If they can get you to agree to a settlement agreement right now, they may be able to pay you less than you deserve for your claim.
Instead of falling into an insurance trap, contact our office to schedule a free consultation with a Sacramento motorcycle accident attorney. We can help you fight the insurance company for a fair settlement. While you are waiting for your consultation with one of our lawyers, we offer the following tips that can help you succeed in your case.
Tips for a Better Outcome in Your Motorcycle Accident Claim
After being injured in a motorcycle accident, you want to do everything possible to strengthen your claim. By avoiding some mistakes and making sure to take certain steps, you can increase the chance of success. Below are several tips that can improve your chance of receiving fair compensation for your motorcycle accident claim.
Take Pictures of Everything as Quickly as Possible
Photographs are a very compelling piece of evidence, especially for jurors. Visualization is important in an accident case. If possible, take photographs of the accident scene immediately after the crash or as soon after as possible. Do not forget to take pictures of your motorcycle and your injuries. You should also document your recovery by taking pictures of your injuries throughout the process — just make sure to date the photographs to show how long it took to recover from your injuries.
Also, do not forget about witnesses. Ask for the names and contact information for any witnesses at the accident scene. Provide this information to your attorney immediately so that he can obtain statements as quickly as possible
See a Doctor As Soon As Possible
In most motorcycle accidents, the rider is transported to the hospital for severe injuries. However, if you were able to walk away from the crash, you still need to see a doctor. You should never assume your injuries are minor because you could be suffering from a severe injury, but it is masked by adrenaline from the crash.
Also, do not decline a request to go to the emergency room. Your refusal of transport will appear in the EMS notes. Remember, the longer you wait to seek treatment, the harder it will be to prove your claim for damages.
Do Not Discuss the Details of Your Claim with Anyone Other Than Your Attorney
You may receive a telephone call from the insurance adjuster for the other driver. Do not provide a statement or discuss the case with the adjuster. Politely refer the adjuster and any other parties to your attorney’s office. Also, do not post anything on social media until you meet with your attorney and discuss the use of social media after an accident.
Begin an Accident Journal
Your accident journal should have several sections. One section is for your notes about the accident and your recovery. You need to write down everything you remember about the accident and keep a daily log of your pain level. Include things that you are unable to do because of your injuries and the days you miss from work.
In another section, you should track all expenses related to the accident. Keep copies of receipts and bills to substantiate your list. In the third section, you can record notes of each conversation you have with your doctor or your attorney, including writing down questions you need to ask during your next visit.
Hire a Sacramento Motorcycle Accident Attorney
One of the best things you can do to increase your chance of success is to contact an attorney as soon as possible. The lawyers of The Tiemann Law Firm offer free consultations. Contact our office by calling (916) 999-9000 or visit our website to schedule your free appointment with a motorcycle accident attorney in Sacramento.
