The thrill of motorcycle riding can rapidly turn to distress in the event of an accident. Knowing the right steps to take after a motorcycle accident can significantly impact your physical recovery, legal rights, and financial future in these critical moments. As nationally recognized trial attorneys, White Law PLLC brings a wealth of experience to guide you after a motorcycle accident.
Navigating insurance claims, medical treatments, and potential legal proceedings can be overwhelming, especially when focusing on healing. That is where our expertise becomes invaluable. A Lansing motorcycle accident lawyer can walk you through essential actions to take following a motorcycle accident so you can make informed decisions.
Why You Should Report Your Motorcycle Accident Right Away
Immediately reporting a motorcycle accident is one of the most important steps. Fresh tire marks, debris patterns, and witness memories are all time-sensitive elements that can significantly impact the outcome of your case. By promptly notifying law enforcement, you ensure an official record is created, which is one of the most vital things to document after a motorcycle crash.
Immediate reporting helps establish a clear timeline of events, which can be helpful when dealing with insurance companies or potential legal proceedings. This official documentation serves as a neutral third-party account of the incident, often carrying substantial weight in determining fault and liability. In many jurisdictions, there are legal requirements to report accidents involving injuries or significant property damage within a specific timeframe.
Failing to report an accident promptly can lead to complications, potentially jeopardizing your ability to file insurance claims or pursue legal action. Insurance companies may view delayed reporting with suspicion, potentially using it as grounds to deny or undervalue your claim. By promptly reporting the accident, you not only fulfill your legal obligations but also protect your rights and enhance your position for future claims or legal proceedings.
Your Fight Is Our Fight
Never Give Statements to an Insurance Adjuster
Exercise caution when communicating when dealing with insurance adjusters after a motorcycle accident. These professionals gather information to minimize the insurance company’s liability, so remember that your statements to an adjuster could be used against your claim. Consider the following points when interacting with insurance adjusters:
- Stick to basic facts about the accident
- Avoid speculating about fault or the extent of your injuries
- Decline to provide a recorded statement without your lawyer present
- Be wary of requests for medical authorizations that could grant broad access to your medical history
It is often in your best interest to defer detailed discussions about the accident and your injuries to your legal representation. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney can handle these communications on your behalf, ensuring that your rights are protected throughout the claims process. There are several tricks auto insurance adjusters use to decrease settlements, and your attorney can spot them immediately.
Type of Motorcycle Insurance Do Michigan Bike Riders Have to Carry
The Michigan Department of Insurance and Financial Services says that the state requires all motorcycle riders to carry a minimum insurance coverage to operate their bikes legally on public roads. The basic requirement includes liability coverage, which helps protect you financially if you are found at fault in an accident that causes injury or property damage to others. However, this minimum coverage may not fully protect you in a serious accident. Consider additional motorcycle insurance coverage options in Michigan, such as the following:
- Liability coverage (required)
- Personal Injury Protection (PIP)
- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist coverage
- Comprehensive coverage
- Collision coverage
While only liability coverage is mandatory, riders should consider additional coverage options to ensure comprehensive protection. Personal Injury Protection can help cover medical expenses and lost wages, regardless of who was at fault in the accident. Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist coverage provides extra protection if you are involved in an accident with a driver who lacks adequate insurance.
We understand that you may be going through a difficult situation and we are ready to help however we can.
Make Sure You Have a Copy of Your Police Report
Obtaining a copy of your police report after a motorcycle accident is vital in protecting your interests and building a strong case. This document is an official record of the incident, including important details like the accident’s date, time, and location, along with the officer’s observations and statements from involved parties and witnesses. This report can be invaluable when dealing with insurance companies or pursuing legal action.
To obtain your police report, you will typically need to contact the law enforcement agency that responded to the accident. Many departments now offer online request systems, making accessing your report easier without visiting the station in person. Be prepared to provide basic information about the accident, such as the date and location, and your identification to verify your right to access the report.
Once you have your police report, review it carefully for accuracy. If you notice any discrepancies or errors, address them promptly with the issuing agency. Your attorney can assist you in this process, ensuring that the official record accurately reflects the circumstances of your accident. This document can play a significant role in determining fault and liability, so its accuracy is helpful in protecting your rights and interests.
You will always work directly with your attorney throughout your case.
Potential Liability Claims or Lawsuit Options
Following a motorcycle accident, you may have several options and wonder if you should accept the first settlement offer from insurance. The possibilities available to you will depend on the circumstances of your accident, the severity of your injuries, and the insurance coverage in place. Potential liability claims and lawsuits after a motorcycle accident may include:
- Filing a claim against the at-fault driver’s insurance
- Pursuing a personal injury lawsuit against the responsible party
- Seeking compensation through your own insurance policy’s uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage
- Filing a product liability claim if a defective motorcycle part contributed to the accident
- Pursuing a claim against a government entity if road conditions played a role in the accident
Each of these options comes with its own set of challenges and legal considerations. Personal injury lawsuits often involve proving negligence, while product liability claims require demonstrating a defect in the motorcycle or its components contributing to the accident. Government claims often have specific notice requirements and shorter filing deadlines.
Get Help from a Michigan Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Do not face the hurdles of your motorcycle accident alone. Contact White Law PLLC today for a free consultation with our experienced trial attorneys. Let us put our national recognition and experience to work for you so you can get the most out of your case.
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