Filing a motorcycle accident compensation claim quickly is of the utmost vital importance when an accident occurs, but you need to make sure that you have your information in order, as well. Insurance companies are very adept at fighting individuals in the case of an accident.
Here are several things to keep in mind while you deal with your settlement:
- Understanding Duty of Care – As a motorcyclist, other drivers on the road have the responsibility to watch out for you and take caution when in your premises. This is an important factor in the determination of fault.
- Don’t admit fault to anyone unless the police have determined it in their report.
- Keep your documents in order and safe. Not having a necessary document will most certainly lead to the reduction of your compensation or loss of your case.
Below is a list of documents that you need to have:
- Other drivers’ insurance information
- Police accident report
- A journal of all medical expenses
- Receipts for your expenses
- Bike repair estimates and/or bills
- A journal of lost work or school time
- Photographs of your injuries and damage to your motorcycle
- Written statements and contact information for witnesses
- A journal of pain, fatigue, discomfort, emotional distress, inconvenience, etc.
You can handle the compensation claim in one of 2 ways, likely depending on whether or not you were injured:
- Involve an attorney who will guide you and interact with the insurance company on your behalf. This is preferable if you have an injury, as the hidden costs associated with injuries can be difficult to quantify by yourself.
- Settle the claim and interact with the insurance company yourself to save money. This is becoming more feasible as more information about the process is being made available to the public. Often, insurance settlement attorneys have their office staff conduct this process using a system created by the attorney with almost no direct involvement from the lawyer themselves.
This system is now available as a do-it-yourself kit with everything that you need to know to deal with your insurance company. It’s not recommended, though, to take this approach if you do have an injury.
