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After a motorcycle accident, it can be difficult to figure out what you should do. It can be equally difficult to know which steps to take in which order. It is never too early to contact a motorcycle accident lawyer. Are you trying to decide if you should notify your insurance company or a lawyer first? If your first contact is your lawyer, they can inform your insurer and the at-fault driver’s insurer on your behalf.
In addition, anything you say to your lawyer is protected by privilege. Any statements you make to the insurance company could be misunderstood or misinterpreted. They might also be used against you later to decrease the at-fault driver’s liability. You should also be careful not to sign anything or make any statements in writing without the guidance and protection of a personal injury lawyer.
Which Types of Cases Would Benefit from Hiring a Personal Injury Law Firm?
After a motorcycle accident, it is always a good idea to hire a personal injury lawyer versus taking on the insurance company on your own. Even after a seemingly minor accident, you could benefit from the legal support and guidance of a lawyer.
Hiring a lawyer can be especially important after certain types of accidents, including the following:
- Accidents involving multiple vehicles
- Accidents where fault is difficult to determine
- Accidents where fault and liability are shared
Once you make the decision to hire a personal injury lawyer, leave the details of your case to them. They will handle all communication with the insurance company and work hard to negotiate a favorable settlement on your behalf.
Can a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Save Time in My Case?
A motorcycle accident lawyer will be familiar with the personal injury and insurance laws of your state. Because they are, they can save time in your case. Your lawyer can make sure the insurance company meets all deadlines mandated by your state. These can include:
- Acknowledging receipt of your claim
- Acting on it in a timely fashion
- Making a timely settlement decision
- Paying out on your claim once settled
As a layperson, you may not be aware of all the timelines that apply to your case. Your lawyer will be and can ensure they are complied with.
Can a Lawyer Get a Bigger Financial Award Than I Could Get on My Own?
A motorcycle accident can result in up to four different forms of financial compensation. You will be entitled to both economic and non-economic damages. You might also be entitled to punitive and wrongful death damages.
The four forms of compensation are:
- Economic damages can include your medical bills, lost wages, and property damages.
- Non-economic damages can include pain and suffering, mental anguish, and emotional distress.
- Punitive damages are rarely awarded and are typical in cases where the at-fault driver’s actions were egregious.
- Wrongful death damages are awarded to the family members of motorcycle accident fatalities.
On your own, it can be easier than you think to overlook individual damages like prescription and OTC medications. It can also be easy to overlook entire categories of compensation like recoverable damages. A personal injury lawyer will ensure your case is accurately valued before settlement talks are underway.
What If the At-Fault Driver’s Insurance Company Contacts Me?
You do not have to respond to the at-fault driver or their insurance company once you have legal representation. Whether they contact you in writing, by phone, or via email or text, you can simply refer them to your attorney.
If you have started the insurance claim process, let your attorney handle all case-related communication. With their guidance and support, you can fight for the best possible outcome of your case without the risk of having something you said used against you later.
What Else Should I Avoid Doing After the Accident?
It can be tempting to talk about your accident and to share about it online. In today’s society, people make online announcements about everything. You should avoid doing so in the case of your accident. Do not do any of the following:
- Post pictures or make statements
- Accept new or unknown friend requests
- Respond to the social posts of others
Keep as much information as possible between yourself and your lawyer. Doing so will protect you and your case from public scrutiny.
Call for a No-Cost Review of Your Motorcycle Accident Case
After a motorcycle accident, it can be hard to know just what to do. When you hire our personal injury lawyer to represent you, they can notify your insurance company for you. Our law firm will also ensure that your case is handled fairly and that you are compensated for your post-accident expenses and losses.
Find out how hard we go to bat for you by contacting one of our Schiller & Hamilton team members for a free review of your case today.