A weekend ride on your bike went from relaxing to devastating in a flash. The motorcycle you worked hard to buy is wrecked and you’re facing months of rehabilitation. Filing a motorcycle accident claim can be vital to receiving the necessary compensation.
Unfortunately, motorcycle accident injury claims are not always straightforward. Navigating Pennsylvania personal injury laws and the filing process is complex . By taking the right actions early, such as by retaining an attorney, you can make this process easier and secure a favorable outcome.
By following the step-by-step guide below, you can understand better how to proceed and take crucial actions to secure your legal rights. Seeking assistance from a Philadelphia motorcycle accident lawyer can be a vital step. These lawyers can advise you on your specific situation and complete many of the steps required to file your claim.
Assessing the Situation
Assessing the accident scene, if you are able, is the critical first step. At that time, you will want to gather evidence, take videos and photographs, and get witness statements and contact information. Most importantly, you should take this opportunity to check yourself and others involved for injuries.
Seeking Medical Attention
Even if you do not think you are badly hurt, you should seek prompt medical attention. Not all injuries are immediately apparent, and adrenaline can cause you not to feel the extent of your injuries. For instance, the symptoms of a brain injury from a motorcycle accident can sometimes take hours or days to manifest. By waiting to seek medical attention you could potentially exacerbate your injury.
Moreover, having medical records to document your injuries is also essential. The insurance company will want this information for their damage assessment and to confirm the harm is associated with the incident. Taking photographs of injuries is also beneficial to recovery.
Contacting Law Enforcement
When the accident happens, you should file a police report. Law enforcement will gather information about the accident, including the parties involved, and investigate what caused the crash. This can be critical to your compensation claim.
Consulting with a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Recovering from an accident, dealing with the insurance company, and understanding Pennsylvania personal injury law can be difficult to juggle. Contacting an experienced personal injury lawyer can be a wise decision.
During your legal consultation, your motorcycle accident attorney will explain things you didn’t know about motorcycle accidents, how the laws apply to your claim, and your potential financial recovery. Having representation during the negotiation phase and in court proceedings can be vital to success.
Concerns about the cost of legal fees is understandable. Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you only pay if you recover. The contingency agreement will outline these terms and the percentage of your recovery that will pay for your attorney’s services.
Gathering Evidence
Photographing the accident scene, damage to your motorcycle, and documenting your injuries is necessary to receive fair compensation. Your attorney will gather information documenting your damages such as:
- Repair estimates
- Medical expenses
- Rehabilitation costs
- Lost wages
Having complete records of your injuries, suffering, and property damage is crucial.
Notifying Insurance Companies
Your attorney will handle notifying insurers about the motorcycle accident. Prompt assistance from an attorney is essential to avoiding delays and claim denial. Your motorcycle accident lawyer will provide the insurance company with as much information as possible and file all documentation required by the insurer. Getting the process started early with a legal professional can increase the chances of a fair settlement offer and secure your legal rights.
Filing the Claim
After notifying the insurance company and gathering information about your damages, your lawyer can file a claim on your behalf. A complete file showing what happened, how it happened, and the resulting harm is essential. It is also critical to account for future care needs and pain and suffering in the claim.
Going to Court (if necessary)
When negotiations fail, you may need to go to court. Trial preparation, litigation strategy, seeking expert testimony, and filing motions are just a few of the complexities involved in this process. Assistance from an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can be vital to receiving a favorable jury decision.
The statute of limitations is just two years in Pennsylvania. If the statute expires before you file, you can be forever barred from recovery. Your attorney can help you determine the statute of limitations in your case and file timely.
Consider Hiring a Motorcycle Accident Attorney
After a motorcycle crash, healing should be your priority. Assistance from a motorcycle accident attorney can help you get your life back on track and relieve the unnecessary stress of dealing with your injury claim. Your personal injury lawyer is your advocate and getting justice is their top priority.
For over 30 years, the Law Office of Greg Prosmushkin, P.C. has been helping injury victims recover fair compensation. Our reputable motorcycle lawyers have the skills and knowledge to assist you with your claim.