In the wake of a motorcycle accident in which you sustained injuries, protecting your rights is critical. Your injury claim will be based on the negligence or wrongdoing of the party that caused the crash. Your actions in securing proper evidence can be crucial to the success of your claim in seeking rightful compensation for your injuries and losses.
Collecting evidence after an accident can significantly strengthen your case, as it provides concrete details about what happened, who was at fault, and the damages you suffered.
This evidence can include photos of the accident scene, witness statements, and medical reports, all of which paint a clear picture for insurance companies and courts, making it harder for the responsible party to dispute your claim.
Providing you are not unconscious or too incapacitated, we recommend the following steps in the wake of an injury accident.
Steps to Take After an Accident
- Ensure your safety first: Move to a safe location if you can and check for any injuries you may have sustained.
- Call the police: It's essential to have a legal accident report, even if the incident seems minor.
- Gather evidence: Take photos of the accident scene, including your motorcycle, the other vehicle, and any relevant road conditions or signs.
- Exchange information with the other party: Get the other party’s name, address, contact information, driver’s license number, and vehicle registration.
- Collect witness information: If there were any witnesses, get their names and contact details. Their statements could be crucial to your case.
- Seek medical attention: It is vital to get checked out by medical personnel even if you believe you are not hurt. Some injuries may not show up for hours or days. A medical record immediately following the accident is a vital piece of evidence.
- Report the accident to your insurance company: Inform your insurance company about the accident, but be cautious when discussing fault or details without legal advice.
- Do not make any agreements: Resist any quick settlement offers from other parties involved or their insurance companies. Do not make any recorded statements to insurers without legal guidance.
- Consult an attorney: Before making any decisions, talk to an attorney who focuses on motorcycle accident claims to understand your rights and the best course of action.
Your Rights & the Importance of Representation
Under California personal injury law, you have the right to seek compensation from liable parties for the damages and losses you sustain in an accident. What you do or don’t do after such an accident can significantly impact that right.
Insurance companies are notorious for undervaluing injury claims to protect their profitability. You will not want to make it easier for them by failing to protect your rights through missteps. Following the above guidelines will enhance your chances of a positive outcome.
Because navigating the complex legal and insurance processes can be overwhelming, especially when recovering from injuries, you should seek help from an experienced motorcycle accident law firm, such as Shark Law.
With our legal representation, you can focus on restoring your health while we handle the legal hurdles and seek the justice you deserve.
Schedule a free consultation at Shark Law by contacting us online or at (888) 506-7064.