What every rider needs to know after a motorcycle accident

As any experienced motorcycle accident lawyer will tell you, there are specific things that you should and shouldn’t do after a motorcycle accident. As an injured motorcyclist, you have certain rights and a motorcycle accident attorney’s main job is to make sure those rights are protected. Below, you will find what every motorcycle rider needs to know after an accident and how a motorcycle accident law firm can help you get the financial compensation you deserve for your damages when someone else’s carelessness causes your injuries.

You Should Seek Medical Attention

Unfortunately, most motorcycle accidents result in serious injuries and seeking medical attention is sometimes not even an option with such injuries. However, if you are involved in a motorcycle accident and even if you think you have sustained only minor injuries, make sure you seek medical attention. One thing that any knowledgeable lawyer will tell you is that when you deny the need for medical attention, it gives the insurance companies the impression that you were not injured at all. This is the case even when you realize later that you were. Your motorcycle accident legal representation needs a medical record regarding your injuries from the accident, even if those injuries were minor. Make sure you retain all medical paperwork that you receive as well.

Don’t Leave the Accident Scene

You should remain at the accident scene until the police and medical help arrives. Leaving the scene of an accident can result in criminal charges. Try to gather as much information as you can and that your injuries will allow you to. Remember, fault and liability have not been determined yet, so keep your comments to a minimum. Experienced attorneys have heard several stories about how a motorcyclist apologized for the accident and it was used against him or her in their case.

Don’t admit fault, even if you feel it was your fail. You will have to answer any questions the police ask, but do not volunteer information to the other drivers or people involved in the accident. Always contact the police, even if the other driver doesn’t feel it is necessary. You will need an accident report on file and your motorcycle accident lawyer will need to review that report later. In Ohio, it is legal to tape record or video record the other party without their knowledge or consent. Therefore, if you are able, tape the party at fault admitting they were at fault and videotape or take photos of the accident scene. Most cellular phones have cameras and video cameras, so this should not be an issue for most people. If you are hurt, have someone else do the pictures.

Identify Potential Witnesses

There are good Samaritans everywhere and many people will stop to help when there is an accident. Try to gather as much information as you can from those who stop to help. They could end up being a witness for you if they can contribute to your case. If you are able, again, take pictures with a camera or a cell phone the accident scene, including the damage to the vehicles that were involved, and any witnesses, their cars, etc. Your law firm will want to see any evidence you have that pertains to the accident and witnesses.

Keep Detailed Records

While most people don’t plan on bringing a lawsuit immediately after an accident, another key piece of advice is to keep detailed records. Write down everything you can remember about the accident as soon as you are able. Keep a log of all phone calls regarding the accident, such as those from the insurance companies? Keep a file of your expenses, such as for medical treatment, estimates for motorcycle repair, rental car charges, mileage to and from the doctor or physical therapist, receipts for medications and medical supplies, and a detailed list of any time that you missed at work as a result of the accident. These are the details that your lawyer will need when planning a course of action in your accident case.

Keep All Medical Appointments and Follow Your Doctor’s Orders

While you may feel as though you have healed from your injuries, if your doctor does not recommend that you return to work or participate in certain activities, it is important that you abide by those orders. Your health should be your primary concern, but in addition, not doing so can affect your case. The insurance companies are looking for any reason to avoid paying a settlement. Your law firm will work diligently to make sure you get the full and fair compensation that you deserve. Failure to follow your doctor’s orders can significantly affect that settlement. Listen to both your doctor when it comes to your health and your attorney as it pertains to your personal injury case. Remember, if you skip appointments, the insurance company will spin it to make it sound like you were not that hurt. If you cannot make an appointment, call the doctor and tell them why so the reason can be placed in your medical file.

Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer As Soon As You Are Able

Experienced personal injury lawyers are competent and very knowledgeable. They know that there are often complex liability issues that are involved in these types of cases. Your choice of law firms is very important. Without an experienced accident lawyer, your chances of a full and fair settlement may be in jeopardy.

A Few Final Thoughts

A personal injury attorney understands what a difficult time it can be after a motorcycle crash and will work diligently to make sure your rights as an injured party are protected. However, there are also emotional and financial considerations, as well. The mounting medical bills, lost wages and seriousness of the physical injuries can make your life seem out of control. Your accident attorney can help you get through this difficult time by dealing with the insurance companies and other defendants in your case. You need to focus on healing and moving forward. The right choice of a personal injury lawyer will help make this possible.

If you have been in an accident in Ohio call the Ohio personal injury law firm of Chester Law at 800-218-4243.