With emotions running high, it can be difficult for motorcycle riders to know what to do after an accident. As a result, they may make critical mistakes that may cost them in the long run. Here are some of the biggest mistakes motorcycle riders make after an accident.
1) Not Seeking Medical Attention As Soon As Possible
Motorcycle accident victims may dismiss their injuries as minor and fail to have a doctor check them out. However, many injuries do not appear to be serious until weeks later.
Motorcyclists can experience serious injuries in an accident, including head trauma, neck and back injuries, and broken bones. Without immediate medical attention, complications may arise, leading to permanent disability or even death.
In addition to putting your health at risk, not seeking medical treatment immediately after an accident can ruin your chances at financial recovery.
Documenting your injuries soon after they occur is an important part of building your case against the parties responsible for the accident. Victims who seek immediate care will have a record of their injuries and it will be easier to prove that the injuries occurred in the accident. The longer you wait to get treatment, the harder it becomes to prove that the collision caused your injuries.
Therefore, even if you think your injuries are not serious, it is in your best interest to seek medical attention as soon as possible after a crash.
2) Not Contacting the Police
Motorists involved in an accident must call the police if there is significant injury, death, or major property damage. However, this does not mean that all drivers will. If you are involved in an accident, call 9-1-1 or insist the other driver does.
Make sure officers file a report at the scene as this report may document if the other driver broke any traffic laws or otherwise acted negligently; this can help establish who is at fault for the accident later on.
3) Failing to Document the Scene
Collecting information at the scene of an accident may be the last thing on an accident victim’s mind. However, expecting police officers to do everything is a mistake.
If you or a passenger has not sustained serious injuries, you should attempt to gather contact and insurance information from anyone involved in the accident. You should talk to witnesses and get their information as well. You should also take pictures of the scene and damages you have suffered to accurately document what happened.
4) Going on the Record with Your Insurer Before Talking to Your Attorney
Soon after the accident, the other driver’s insurer will likely contact you and request a recorded statement. It is imperative that you do not give a recorded statement before discussing your case with an attorney.
Talking to your attorney before giving any statements is essential to make sure that you do not incriminate yourself. Insurance companies do whatever they can to pay out the least amount of damages, even if that means trying to confuse you in an interview.
While Washington’s laws allow you to recover compensation even if you are 99 percent at fault, admitting fault in any way (e.g., even just saying, “I’m sorry) can lessen the amount of compensation you are eligible to recover.
5) Rushing to Make Repairs After the Accident
After an accident, you may be eager to repair your bike and your helmet. However, making repairs before properly documenting the damages can be devastating to your case. Make sure that you have stored the bike and helmet away in their post-accident condition until all parties are able to inspect them.
6) Not Accounting For Bias Against Motorcyclists
When a motorcycle accident occurs, insurers and other drivers may automatically assume that the motorcyclist was at fault for the accident. A number of people stereotype motorcyclists as reckless and irresponsible motorists. However, the reality is that many motorcycle riders are safe, law-abiding motorists who adhere to the appropriate standard of care when on the road.
Overcoming this bias and proving that the other driver is at fault may be a challenge for motorcycle riders. Work with Max Meyers Law PLLC to effectively establish a case in your favor.
7) Not Working With a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Not all attorneys have experience handling motorcycle accident cases. It is in your best interest to seek legal representation from an attorney who is knowledgeable about state and local motorcycle laws and comfortable with all the ins and outs of motorcycle accident claims.
Fortunately, Max Meyers has the experience necessary to assist with your motorcycle accident lawsuit. Contact Max to schedule a consultation today: 425-399-7000.
