The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that approximately 80% of motorcycle accidents end in fatalities, with the victims often having to cushion the resulting expenses. These costs can spiral into thousands of dollars, with only a small portion of riders affording their complete medical care. With this in mind, an accident lawyer will come in handy in helping you take care of various matters during your recovery.
Helps You Gather Evidence Against The Party At Fault
One of the primary duties of a motorcycle accident attorney is gathering evidence on your behalf. Every piece of information is crucial to help you receive the compensation that the liable party owes you. This means that your attorney will help you track down witnesses and help record their statements, recover any evidence at the scene of the accident and get testimony from medical professionals as to the extent of your injuries.
Negotiates With the Insurance Company
Unfortunately, motorcycle accidents result in significant property damage costs, with most riders barely salvaging their bikes. Due to this, numerous insurance companies have been known to offer low payouts to victims, with some also failing to advance payouts entirely. If you experience any of these scenarios, a lawyer will be your best chance of getting what you are owed. Accident attorneys handle all communication between you and the insurance company in question, allowing you to take a break from the constant back and forth negotiations.
Your lawyer will help you file all the necessary paperwork, all while working with insurance adjusters to determine the losses and proper compensation. If the insurance company fails to settle, your lawyer will then file a lawsuit. This can be a personal injury lawsuit or a wrongful death lawsuit based on the circumstances surrounding your accident. A professional also understands that each state has its prescribed statute of limitations, giving you the best chance at proceeding with your claim within a suitable period to help you secure your right to legal action.
Acts As Your Representation in Trial
Navigating a trial on your own will not be an easy task, another area that an accident lawyer can help with. Your attorney will act as your legal representative when your case is presented at trial, allowing you to eliminate the hassles of court proceedings. Here, your attorney will present the relevant evidence gathered along the way as they seek to prove grounds for 3rd party negligence to help you recover your losses. An accident lawyer can also hire experts to testify on any medical and additional expenses you are likely to incur in your future in the aftermath of an accident. If you are also called before the court, your lawyer will guide you through the entire process.
Reduces Your Stress During Recovery
If you are undergoing treatment after your accident, taking your case on your own will significantly hinder your recovery. An attorney will come in handy in helping you take care of all proceedings and negotiations to allow you to focus on your health. By delegating such roles to experts, you and your loved ones also minimize the risk of legal mishaps, helping you get the best possible outcomes.
Types of Damages
Depending on your case, you could be eligible for any of the following types of damages:
- Lost wages and medical care expenses
- Non-economic damage. These include pain and suffering.
- Property damage
- Wrongful death damages. This will apply if your loved one passes away in a motorcycle accident.
- Out-of-pocket damage. These include repair or replacement costs, transportation expenses, over-the-counter medications, and medical equipment like slings and crutches.
If you need help with any of the above, a motorcycle accident lawyer will give you the best chance of getting the help you need. From helping you manage communication with all relevant parties to gathering evidence to help with your case, an accident expert will help you get the compensation you are owed.