Imagine you're enjoying a scenic ride through the rolling hills of Wisconsin on your motorcycle when suddenly, out of nowhere, a car sideswipes you and speeds away without stopping. In the blink of an eye, a pleasant day becomes a painful, confusing nightmare. How will you get medical treatment for your injuries? Who will pay for the damage to your bike? What are your legal rights in this situation?
For over 50 years, the experienced motorcycle accident attorneys at Hupy and Abraham have helped injured riders get the answers they need after devastating hit-and-run crashes. We understand the unique challenges these cases present and are committed to helping victims pursue every dollar they deserve. Keep reading to learn what to avoid and what steps to take to protect yourself and your potential injury claim.
Ensuring Your Safety is the Top Priority
In the moments after a motorcycle hit-and-run, you may feel disoriented, frustrated, and unsure of what to do next. Remember, your health and safety must come first. If you're able to do so safely, move yourself and your motorcycle out of the path of traffic to prevent further collisions. Check yourself for obvious signs of injury, but keep in mind that some serious injuries, like concussions (or other brain injuries) and soft tissue damage, may not be immediately apparent due to the adrenaline coursing through your body.
Call 911 to request emergency medical attention and law enforcement assistance. When the responding officer arrives, provide a clear, concise statement about what occurred. Mention any details you noticed about the at-fault driver's vehicle, such as the color, make, or model, as well as the direction they were headed. The officer will create an official accident report that may be valuable evidence in your case. Be sure to obtain the report number before leaving the scene.
Gathering Evidence at the Accident Scene
Evidence can disappear quickly after a motorcycle crash, so it's crucial to collect information before it's gone. If you're able to do so safely, take pictures of:
- Your injuries
- Damage to your motorcycle and gear
- The crash location, including skid marks, debris, and traffic signs
Write down the names and contact information of any eyewitnesses who saw what happened. Their statements can provide strong support for your case. Additionally, make a note of any nearby homes or businesses that might have security cameras pointing toward the crash site. Your attorney can reach out to the owners to request copies of any relevant footage.
Getting Appropriate Medical Treatment
Don't try to tough it out or wait to see if your pain goes away on its own after a motorcycle hit-and-run. Many serious injuries can worsen without prompt medical attention. Visit your doctor or the emergency room as soon as possible after the crash. This not only protects your health but also documents the link between the hit-and-run and your injuries.
Be sure to attend all recommended follow-up appointments and complete the prescribed course of treatment. Insurance companies are quick to use gaps in treatment as an excuse to deny claims.
Exploring Your Options for Compensation
When the at-fault driver flees the scene of a motorcycle accident, it may seem like you're out of luck when it comes to seeking compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses. However, you may still have several potential paths to pursue the money you need to rebuild your life.
Filing an Uninsured Motorist Claim
If you have uninsured motorist (UM) coverage on your own motorcycle insurance policy, you can file a claim with your own carrier up to the limits of your policy. In hit-and-run cases, most insurance companies will treat the at-fault driver as an uninsured motorist. While UM claims may seem straightforward, insurance adjusters often look for ways to limit payouts and protect their bottom line. It's wise to consult with a skilled motorcycle accident attorney who can advocate for your interests and help you fight for maximum compensation.
Pursuing Personal Assets
In some cases, the hit-and-run driver may be found through a thorough investigation. If the driver is identified and has personal assets, you may be able to file a lawsuit to pursue compensation outside the insurance system. Your attorney can advise you on whether this option may be possible in your specific case.
Using Your Health Insurance
If you have medical payments (MedPay) coverage on your motorcycle insurance or health insurance coverage, you can use these policies to cover your accident-related medical bills. However, you'll still be responsible for co-pays, deductibles, and other out-of-pocket costs.
Protecting Your Rights With an Experienced Motorcycle Accident Law Firm
Hit-and-run motorcycle accidents often present complex legal challenges that can feel overwhelming, especially when you're trying to recover from painful injuries. At Hupy and Abraham, we have the knowledge, resources, and dedication to guide you through the process while aggressively advocating for your rights.
Our law firm has been representing injured riders in Wisconsin for over 50 years. We've recovered over $2 billion for our satisfied clients by thoroughly investigating crashes, consulting with respected experts, and using cutting-edge technology to build strong cases. Our attorneys understand the unique aspects of motorcycle accident cases and are committed to helping injured riders and their families get the full and fair compensation they need to move forward after a devastating crash.
