It can be very difficult to know what to do after a motorcycle accident, as the shock and confusion is overwhelming. At Hupy and Abraham, our experienced personal injury lawyers are also riders and understand what to do after a bike crash. We’ll provide you with the legal representation you need during this challenging time and offer tips to help you avoid common motorcycle accident mistakes that negatively affect the outcome of your injury claim.
Common Motorcycle Accident Mistakes to Avoid
If you’re injured in a bike accident due to someone else’s negligence, anything you do after the crash could affect your well-being and legal proceedings. Here are just a few ways people compromise their health and their potential claim for compensation.
1. Not Seeking Medical Attention
Some riders make the mistake of underestimating their injuries or refusing medical attention. While you feel fine initially, adrenaline often masks pain and discomfort. Accepting prompt medical attention is critical, even for seemingly minor injuries. Avoiding treatment can exacerbate your health and complicate recovery.
2. Admitting Fault or Apologizing
In the aftermath of a motorcycle crash, emotions run high, and it's easy to feel compelled to admit fault, even if you weren't entirely responsible for the accident. First responders might also easily misinterpret the simple politeness of an apology as an acknowledgment of fault. However, statements like these prematurely jeopardize your chances of receiving fair compensation for damages. An insurance adjuster might consider these statements as reasons to not adequately pay for medical bills, lost income, and property damage.
The bottom line is you need to watch what you say after being involved in a crash, regardless of who is negligent.
3. Agreeing to Dropping the Case
While it may be tempting to do this to avoid the extra stress of dealing with insurers and authorities, it’s not a good idea. Even the most minor accidents should still be reported. Not having an official report of your accident is yet another reason insurance companies use to deny any claims you may make following an accident.
4. Not Sticking to the Facts
When making a police accident report, remember to tell the facts as you know them. Avoid giving your opinion about the events of the accident or your feelings about the situation, as this kind of testimony can also easily be used against you by the negligent party’s insurer.
5. Giving a Recorded Statement
Soon after the accident, you may be contacted by insurance companies asking for a recorded statement about the details of the crash. Avoid providing a recorded statement since anything you say could be used against your claim. You are not required to provide this without first speaking to a motorcycle accident attorney.
6. Neglecting to Exchange Information
After a motorcycle crash, exchanging information with the other parties involved is crucial for insurance purposes. However, some riders neglect this step, assuming their insurance company will handle everything. To avoid this mistake, contact information, driver's license numbers, insurance details, and vehicle registration information should be exchanged with all parties involved in the accident. You’ll also want to gather any eyewitness’ contact details as well.
7. Skipping Follow-Up Medical Care
Recovering from a motorcycle crash often requires ongoing medical care and rehabilitation. However, some riders make the mistake of not following through with appointments or discontinuing treatment prematurely. It's essential to adhere to your health care provider's recommendations completely. This helps you facilitate recovery and document the extent of your injuries for insurance purposes.
8. Posting on Social Media
You may be tempted to talk about the motorcycle accident on social media. However, revealing details about the accident or your injuries on social media can have unintended consequences. Insurance companies and legal adversaries often scour social media platforms for evidence that can be used against you in claims or lawsuits. Don’t discuss the accident until it's resolved to avoid compromising your case.
Contact a Skilled Milwaukee Bike Accident Lawyer
Contact our skilled Milwaukee bike accident lawyer at Hupy and Abraham if you or a loved one were injured in a motorcycle crash. We offer a complimentary, no-obligation consultation to review your case.
To request a confidential appointment, please fill out our convenient contact form by clicking the button above or for immediate assistance, call us at 800-800-5678.