How to Bolster Your Motorcycle Accident Claim
If you were struck by a reckless driver while riding your motorcycle, you’re probably entitled to compensation for the associated damages. Before you can hold the driver liable, though, you’re going to have to put together a strong claim.
While a resourceful motorcycle accident attorney can handle all the legal aspects of your case, there are a few ways to bolster the claim on your end. Read on to learn what those are:
1. Follow Your Doctor’s Instructions
All personal injury claimants must be able to prove that they took reasonable measures to mitigate damages. Otherwise, the liable party can argue that the victim is partially responsible for the severity of their losses.
While mitigating damages can mean any number of things depending on the circumstances, it usually starts with seeking prompt medical care. And once you begin treatment, make sure to follow your doctor’s orders diligently.
2. Stay off Social Media
It’s wise to think twice before posting about the accident on social media. After you file your claim, the insurance adjuster may take to monitoring your online activity. Should any of the content you’ve published open the door for a dispute regarding liability or damages, it could seriously hurt your credibility.
3. Give Any Evidence You’ve Already Gathered to Your Lawyer
Your legal team will conduct their own investigation, but you can support their efforts by giving them any evidence you’ve already obtained. Examples include photographs of the wreckage, dash camera footage, statements from eyewitnesses, and the police report drafted by responding officers.
You should also make sure to preserve documentation of damages, like invoices for injury-related expenses and paystubs logging every shift you miss because of your injuries.
4. Refuse to Provide a Recorded Statement
Should the insurance adjuster reach out and request a recorded statement, it’s best to avoid giving one. Until your attorney has completed the investigation and you’ve reached maximum medical improvement, there’s really no way to be certain of any details surrounding the case.
If you tell the insurance adjuster something that turns out to be untrue, it may allow them to poke holes in the rest of your claim, hurting your chances at recovering a fair payout in the process. In that same vein, avoiding commenting on the situation if the press asks.
If either the insurance adjuster or the local media is especially persistent and won’t leave you alone, simply refer them to your legal team. Your personal injury lawyer will be happy to handle all correspondence on your behalf, so you can focus on your recovery.
Speak with a Stuart Motorcycle Accident Attorney
For help with your motorcycle accident claim, turn to Donaldson & Weston. We know just how stressful recovering from serious injuries can be, which is why you’ll get the full force of the firm advocating for you at every stage of the proceedings. To schedule your free initial consultation with a motorcycle accident lawyer in Stuart, call 772-266-5555 or fill out our Contact Form.