Protecting Your Rights & Pursuing a Claim for Motorcycle Accident Injuries

West Chester, Mason, and Cincinnati Ohio

If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, there are a number of things you can do to protect yourself and preserve your right to recovery, even prior to consulting with an attorney:

• Stay at the accident scene. It is important to remain at the scene of the accident. Stay at least long enough to give your name and address to a police officer or the other driver. Leaving the scene before doing this could subject you to criminal penalties.
• Don't make definitive statements. Tell the police officer at the scene any relevant facts about the accident, but do not make any statements assessing or accepting blame for the accident. Also, try not to make any firm statements regarding the state of your health, because health repercussions may arise later. If asked, stating that you are unsure whether you are injured is perfectly acceptable. Be cooperative with law enforcement officials, but do not sign any unnecessary documents or take any action that might affect your right to recovery.
• Gather information from other drivers and witnesses. Because not all witnesses to your accident are going to wait for the police to arrive, try to get their names and phone numbers before they leave the scene. Collect from any driver involved the following information: Name, address, telephone number, driver's license number, insurance company, policy number, make and model of vehicle and license plate number.
• Take photographs. If possible, take pictures of the accident scene to record evidence that may soon disappear. Preserve any evidence related to your damages by taking photographs of your injuries, and of damage to your motorcycle or other property.
• Get medical attention and keep records. If you believe you may have sustained any physical injury, seek medical assistance immediately. The day after a motorcycle accident, you may feel pain that you weren't aware of immediately following the accident. The sooner you see a doctor after an accident, the more seriously your medical claims will be taken. Hold on to any records and bills related to treatment you receive. Your attorney will also be able to obtain medical records and billing information on your behalf.
• Track your expenses. Keep track of any expenses related to your accident and recovery. These can include motorcycle repair expenses, rental vehicle expenses, and time missed from work.

Your next consideration should be to find an attorney to help you evaluate the potential success and value of your claim.

Finding an Attorney

If you or a loved one has been injured in an accident while riding a motorcycle, the most important step in your legal recovery is to meet with a skilled attorney to discuss your situation. Issues in your potential claim, including compliance with traffic laws, motor vehicle regulations, medical treatment issues, and liability determinations, all require the expertise of an attorney who is experienced in the area of motorcycle accident liability. In light of legal deadlines for filing injury claims, meeting with an attorney to evaluate your case as soon as possible is highly recommended.