Understanding Your Rights as an Injured Motorcyclist
Motorcyclists are often some of the most vulnerable people on the road. Not only do they have little protection during a collision, but they can also be easily missed by an inattentive driver. If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, you need to act quickly to protect your rights. You should always consult with an experienced attorney before signing anything or making a statement to the insurance company.
At Bishop & Hayes, P.C., we provide compassionate representation for motorcyclists who are injured in traffic accidents. Our dedicated legal team knows that motorcycle accidents rarely result in minor injuries. Many collisions are catastrophic, leaving motorcyclists with lifelong impairments. If you were involved in a motorcycle accident, contact our office at (417) 304-3228 for a free consultation.
Immediately After a Motorcycle Accident
In the immediate aftermath of a motorcycle accident, you need to stay calm and get medical help. If you are able, move yourself and your bike to safety. Contact 911 from the crash scene and report any injuries or fatalities. A 911 operator can dispatch for emergency medical treatment.
Even if you are not taken by ambulance or airlifted to a hospital, you should still seek medical treatment as soon as possible. An accident can leave you in shock, unable to determine if you are seriously injured. Getting seen by a doctor can help ensure that your injuries are appropriately diagnosed and that you receive the treatment you need to fully recover.
At the Scene of the Motorcycle Accident
If you are able, you will want to collect information at the site of the accident. The more documentation you have about the crash, the more likely you can establish liability or determine what caused the collision.
At the scene of the accident, you should:
- Take pictures and videos of the location, property damage, and your injuries;
- Collect the names and contact information of any eyewitnesses;
- Exchange insurance information with any involved parties; and
- Obtain a report number from the responding officer.
You should avoid making statements to other parties about the incident. You may have to speak with the officer that arrives on the scene. Be clear and straightforward about what happened before, during, and after the crash. It is not your job to determine fault, so you should not make any assumptions about who was responsible for the accident.
Following the Accident
As soon as you are able, you need to consider consulting with a motorcycle accident attorney. An attorney can help you file a claim against any liable parties. They will work hard to obtain compensation on your behalf. Damages in a motorcycle accident claim may include money to cover your medical bills, lost wages, loss of future earning capacity, pain and suffering, and more.
The worst thing you can do is wait. You should not wait to get medical treatment, and you should not wait to contact an attorney. Both can hurt your case and your right to financial recovery. You only have a limited amount of time to file a claim for damages following a motorcycle accident. The earlier you get started, the greater the likelihood that you will receive fair compensation based on your injuries.
No Fees Unless We Win
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident, you deserve an attorney that will fight for you. At Bishop & Hayes, we do not give up. We work relentlessly to get our clients the compensation they need to recover after an accident with injury.
Contact our office today at (417) 304-3228 for a free, no-obligation consultation. There are no fees unless we win. Call now to get started.