Motorcyclists are more likely to experience severe injuries after an accident than car occupants. While wearing a helmet can help reduce the risk for injury, there is often nothing a motorcyclist can do to prevent getting hurt. Injuries from motorcycle accidents typically result in tens of thousands of dollars in rehabilitation and medical costs. For many people, the only way to afford these costs is to file a motorcycle accident claim.
A motorcycle accident lawyer knows that the best way to successfully settle your claim is by having strong evidence. Some examples of evidence that will strengthen your motorcycle accident claim include:
Eyewitness Testimony
The majority of motorcycle accidents happen on busy roads or highways. It is likely that several people will have witnessed your accident take place in real-time. They may even rush to the accident scene and make sure that you are alright.
If you can, then you should ask them to wait for the police and give an official statement. You should also get the names and phone numbers of any witnesses who must leave the scene before the police arrive. Your attorney can then call them later when he or she is building your injury claim.
Police Report
Many police reports will assign fault after assessing the accident scene. If this is the case, then the document will become an essential component of your motorcycle accident claim. Your attorney will take the facts presented in the police report and investigate them further, creating a strong case against the negligent party.
When negotiating with an insurance company, it is important to have access to the police report. Most major insurance providers require a police report before they begin processing an accident claim. An experienced attorney will help you gain access to this report and communicate directly with the relevant insurance company.
Surveillance Recordings
If your collision happened near a shopping center, gas station, or restaurant, then surveillance footage may be available. This will give you and your attorney a chance to review what happened from an unbiased perspective. You can introduce the surveillance footage as evidence when negotiating with an insurance company or during trial.
It is important to acknowledge that acquiring surveillance footage is likely time-sensitive and may require a subpoena. A motorcycle accident attorney understands the legal process required to obtain a subpoena and will work hard to secure the best possible evidence.
Medical Records
Many forms of evidence can help you prove liability. However, you also need evidence proving that damages were suffered. Medical records can show the severity of your injuries and the total cost of your medical care. You should seek medical attention immediately after a motorcycle crash. Medical professionals can then document your injuries and suggest further treatment options.
You may run into a situation where an insurance company asks you to meet with their company doctor. It is important to consult with an attorney before making any decisions of this magnitude. In many cases, you are allowed to schedule physical examinations with a doctor of your own choosing.
Photographic Evidence
If you have sustained a serious injury after a motorcycle accident, then you will be unable to take photographs of the accident scene. An ambulance will be called, and you will most likely be taken directly to the hospital.
However, if your injuries are minor, then you should take pictures of the wreckage. Doing so could ultimately strengthen your personal injury claim. In many cases, an accident reconstruction expert can review your photographs and determine what occurred immediately before the collision.
Contact Us Today for Assistance With Your Motorcycle Accident Claim
Motorcycle wrecks are extremely dangerous and often require months of rehabilitation. Attorney Braid Pezzaglia has experience helping motorcycle accident victims pursue justice and recover damages for their injuries. He is passionate about personal injury law and believes strongly in helping members of the San Jose community.
If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, then contact the Law Offices of Braid Pezzaglia today at (408) 650-8955 for assistance. We offer free initial consultations and look forward to reviewing your case. You can also contact us online and tell us about your accident. We look forward to meeting with you soon.
.jpg)
