As we all know, motorcycle accidents can be quite serious and often result in severe or fatal injuries. If you have been in a motorcycle accident, you might need a motorcycle accident lawyer in California who can protect your rights.
There are some incidents where an attorney would not be helpful. For example, suppose you run into a tree, and your injuries are minor. You might be embarrassed, but you likely wouldn’t need a lawyer because there is no negligent “other” party to sue, and your injuries aren’t severe. But an attorney would likely be invaluable if you have an accident caused by a negligent or reckless driver.
Get Medical Help Immediately
Clearly, motorcycles do not have the same protections as regular vehicles. This leaves motorcyclists at an increased risk for serious injury or death. 2019 saw a total of 5,014 deaths resulting from motorcycle accidents in America. Motorcyclists are about 29 times more likely than passenger car occupants to die in a crash. Getting medical treatment after your accident is an important step. Delaying treatment for your injuries only makes things worse. Immediately going to the hospital and following up with a doctor are wise practices to avoid lingering or worsening issues from minor or severe accidents.
If you are injured, you also want to ensure that you get clear evidence of your treatment and diagnosis. Consider requesting an MRI scan for any suspected head trauma or x-rays for potential broken bones or fractures. Your medical records will be used to establish your case and prove the severity of your injuries. If you need continuing treatment, your medical provider may be able to provide you with a medical summary detailing future projected costs. This can all be crucial for your case.
Timing Matters
If you need to file a claim, do not wait. California’s statute of limitations requires you to file your claim within two years of the date of the injury. Failure to do so will forever bar your claim. Also, keep in mind that, once your case begins, it may take several months or years to resolve, depending on the complexity of your case. So do not delay getting your case started. Delaying your case start date could cost you thousands of dollars, or you could eventually end up with no money in your pocket after the accident.
Why Should I Get an Attorney?
Your motorcycle accident lawyer will help you recover your financial and other losses after your doctor provides medical treatment. According to Glotzer & Leib, LLP, depending on your injuries, personal injury protection might not cover all of your treatment costs, and you may need to pay some medical bills out of your own pocket.
You simply have a much better chance of recovering those losses from the at-fault party if you have an attorney handling the insurance adjuster and others who will try to limit your compensation. Your attorney will discuss any lost wages, damaged property, ongoing physical therapy, or other damages you have suffered to arrive at a fair settlement amount. Then they will strategically negotiate with the at-fault party’s insurance company to get you the compensation you need.
Also,when it comes to dealing with insurance companies, it’s never a bad idea to have a lawyer do this for you. Insurance companies will try and get you to say things that could win up landing you a lower settlement. Lawyers know insurance company tricks and will take all measure to get you the highest settlement possible.
Experience Matters
In the field of personal injury, experience and results matter. When you begin your search for a personal injury lawyer, ask about their experience and case results. A seasoned personal injury attorney has handled hundreds of cases in their career. They should have both reviews and case results posted on their website so potential clients can assess their past performance for other clients. Knowing your attorney’s experience and results will help you feel confident in their ability to get you the money you need to move forward in life after your accident. Don’t wait. Start looking for an attorney today and begin your road to recovery and peace of mind.