Common Mistakes That Can Hurt Your Motorcycle Accident Claim
If you’ve suffered injuries in a motorcycle crash, you may be interested in taking legal action to recover compensation from the at-fault party. However, many riders make critical mistakes that damage their claim and keep them from getting justice.
Find out how to avoid these mistakes and protect your rights. And when you’re ready to discuss your accident in greater detail, call John H. Ruby & Associates at 502-895-2626 to set up a consultation.
Not Seeking Medical Attention Immediately
After a motorcycle accident, skipping medical attention can be a serious error. Even if you feel uninjured, certain injuries might not be immediately obvious. Ignoring medical care could harm your health and weaken your claim. Medical records are vital evidence, showing the extent of your injuries and justifying the need for compensation. If you delay getting treated, insurance companies might argue that your injuries aren’t severe or weren’t caused by the accident. Prioritize seeing a doctor right away to protect both your well-being and your legal claim. Early medical intervention can make a significant difference in your recovery and your case.
Failing to Report the Accident
Failing to report the accident to the police can hurt your case significantly. A police report is an official record that provides an unbiased account of what happened, including details about all parties involved, witnesses, and conditions at the scene. This document can be critical in supporting your claim by establishing key facts. Without it, you may face challenges in proving your case. Additionally, insurance companies often rely on police reports to verify the details of an accident. Not reporting the incident can lead to a lack of essential evidence, making it more difficult to receive the compensation you deserve.
Talking to Insurance Companies Without Legal Advice
Dealing with insurance companies on your own can be tricky. Insurance adjusters are trained to reduce the amount of money they have to pay out. They may ask questions designed to get you to say something that weakens your claim. Even casual remarks can be used against you later. Having a lawyer helps protect you from these tactics. An attorney knows how to handle negotiations and can ensure that your rights are protected. They can also help you understand what information to share and what to avoid discussing.
Ignoring Follow-Up Medical Care
Following up with medical care after the initial treatment is necessary for both your health and your motorcycle accident claim. Skipping doctor’s appointments or stopping prescribed therapy can have serious consequences. Insurance companies might argue that your injuries aren’t as bad as you say if you don’t stick to your treatment plan. This can weaken your case and reduce your chances of getting the compensation you need.
Continuing with recommended medical care helps show the seriousness of your injuries. It also provides ongoing records of your condition, which can be vital evidence for your claim. Make sure to attend all follow-up appointments and complete any therapy or treatment your doctor recommends. This not only aids your recovery but also strengthens your legal case by providing solid documentation of your medical needs.
Posting on Social Media
After a motorcycle accident, be careful about what you post on social media. Sharing details about the accident or your injuries can have unintended consequences. Insurance companies and opposing lawyers often look at social media profiles to find anything that can weaken your claim. For example, a post about feeling fine or pictures of you engaging in activities can be used to argue that your injuries aren’t serious. Even seemingly harmless updates can be taken out of context.
To avoid this, consider limiting your social media activity while your claim is ongoing. Avoid posting about the accident, your injuries, or any related events. It’s also wise to ask friends and family not to tag you in posts or pictures that could be misinterpreted. Adjust your privacy settings to limit who can see your updates, but remember that even private posts can sometimes be accessed in legal proceedings.
Discuss Your Next Steps with John H. Ruby & Associates
Hiring an attorney can help you avoid these mistakes and preserve the integrity of your claim. Set up a consultation now by calling us at 502-895-2626 or filling out our online contact form.