How to protect your legal rights following a motorcycle accident

Getting compensated for all your injuries following a motorcycle accident is not a walk in the park. Your insurance company might downplay the extent of your injuries, or the other party could try and pin the blame on you, among other possibilities.

Protect your legal rights after a motorcycle accident by taking the following actions.

Get a medical report

A visit to the doctor will ensure formal documentation of your injuries, which can be produced as evidence. In addition, given the likelihood of internal injuries, getting medical attention following a motorcycle accident is in your best interest. Finally, remember to keep an account of all the medical records, including hospital bills incurred on treatment or medication, since they may be used to evaluate your claim.

Contact the police

In states like Louisiana, the law states that you have to call the police if your traffic accident is fatal or involves a drunk driver. Injuries or damage to property exceeding $500 must be reported as well. Informing authorities is also crucial in providing an official account of details that led to your accident.

Call your insurer

Informing your insurance company of the accident as soon as possible is important. In most instances, your policy will have a specified time period defined, but it is important to notify your insurer of the accident as soon as it occurs. Only provide the necessary information regarding your accident and do not admit liability.

Preserve the evidence

After a motorcycle accident, do not get rid of any torn clothes, a disfigured helmet or any key pieces of evidence which may help you build your case. You can also document the scene by taking photographs or recording statements from eyewitnesses before law enforcement arrives.

Find out your state’s insurance laws

Getting to know about the insurance laws in your state regarding motorcycle accidents will go a long way in ensuring that you are aware of the legal landscape surrounding you. Keep in mind that these laws are different across states, and they may affect your accident claim.