What You Should Know About Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents are unfortunately all too common, and the city of Plano is no exception.
- These incidents are often caused by a variety of factors, such as distracted driving, speeding, drunk driving, and failure to yield the right of way.
- Sometimes the negligence of the at-fault driver can result in disastrous consequences for the innocent motorcyclist.
- Victims often suffer from serious injuries, including bone fractures, spinal cord injuries, traumatic brain injuries, and severe road rash.
- The physical pain is often accompanied by emotional trauma, impacting the victim’s quality of life.
- Motorcycle accidents can result in significant financial strain
As with every accident, motorcycle including, the loss of income is problematic and the amount needed to cover everything easily adds up. Medical treatment, rehabilitation, and property damage are just some of the things that make seeking compensation vital for the victims. Of course, doing this on your own is practically impossible, especially after suffering an accident. Luckily, some experts dedicated their lives to studying law and dealing with cases like these. The law firm Tate Law Offices has plenty of those experts, so involving us in any motorcycle accidents becomes highly beneficial – not to mention instrumental.
What Can a Plano Motorcycle Accident Attorney Do for Me?
As we briefly discussed in the previous section, a motorcycle accident attorney plays an integral role when it comes to a motorcycle accident case.
Their role is multifaceted, ranging from providing legal advice to representing the victim in court.
Before anything else though, they first assess the case, determining the potential for a successful claim based on the details of the accident.
These legal professionals then collect and analyze evidence, build a compelling case, and negotiate with the insurance company on behalf of the client. They make sure that the victim’s rights are protected and that they receive the maximum compensation possible.
Furthermore, a motorcycle accident lawyer guides the victim through the legal process, providing clarity and support. They handle the intricate legal paperwork, allowing the victim to focus on recovery. Their expertise and experience in handling motorcycle accident cases in Plano can considerably improve the outcome of the case.
Apart from already mentioned, here are some of the things a lawyer can do for you:
- Swiftly initiate investigation of yours or a loved one’s accident
- Help you navigate insurance coverages
- Make sure all legal filings and documents are completed and file on time
- Cover all court costs and legal expenses
- Collect and preserve evidence for your accident, including but not limited to:
- The police crash report (CR-3) for your accident
- Traffic camera footage or security camera recordings
- Recorded witness interviews
- Accident reconstruction
Dealing with the At-Fault Driver After a Motorcycle Accident
Apart from covering the costs, being stressed out, and other similar consequences of a motorcycle accident, one of the more problematic issues is having to deal with an at-fault driver. Be it either the at-fault driver or their insurance company, they will always try to minimize their liability and the damage they’ve done, so it is very important to proceed cautiously.
This is due to one simple fact: if a victim discusses something or engages in a discussion regarding the accident without a motorcycle accident attorney or at least without consulting them first, the chances of getting a good settlement become lower.
Remember, anything said or agreed upon can be used against the victim during the claim process. Therefore, it is prudent to allow a Plano lawyer to handle all communications with the at-fault driver or their insurance company.
Importance of a Crash Report in Motorcycle Accidents
One of the several evidence pieces that can play a major role in a motorcycle accident is a crash report. These reports provide a detailed account of the accident, including:
- Involved parties
- Location
- Time
- Date of the accident
- Apparent cause.
The report also includes statements from the involved parties and any witnesses.
This report serves as a critical piece of evidence in proving the at-fault party’s negligence. It can notably impact the outcome of the case, influencing the amount of compensation awarded to the victim.
Therefore, victims should see to it that a crash report is filed promptly after the accident. If possible, they should review the report for accuracy and consult a motorcycle accident lawyer to understand its implications for their case.
Navigating Insurance Claims After a Motorcycle Accident
As one might expect, handling the insurance companies is a huge chore and one of the most difficult and stressful processes. The goal of every insurance company typically is to minimize their payout, often offering settlements that don’t adequately cover the victim’s damages.
This is yet another reason why you need a motorcycle accident lawyer. They can take the lead in this particular affair, negotiating with the insurance company to make certain that the victim receives fair compensation. As experts who have handled numerous similar cases, they know full well the tactics used by insurance companies and are equipped to counter them effectively.
Again, it is important to note that victims should not accept or sign any settlement offers without consulting their lawyer. Doing so could potentially limit their ability to pursue additional compensation should their damages exceed the settlement amount.
Gathering Evidence for Your Motorcycle Accident Case
Naturally, evidence plays a pivotal role in a motorcycle accident case as it states plain facts and removes the ‘he said, she said’ scenario. It can establish the at-fault party’s negligence and determine the extent of the victim’s damages. Therefore, gathering and preserving evidence is a critical step in building a strong case.
This process may include collecting photographs of the accident scene, damaged vehicles, and any visible injuries. It also involves obtaining any available video footage, police report, and medical records. Witness testimonies can also offer valuable insights into the accident.
A motorcycle accident attorney can assist in this process, making sure that all relevant evidence is collected and preserved. They can also advise on how to document and present the evidence successfully.
Importance of Medical Care After a Motorcycle Accident
Following a motorcycle accident, victims should look for medical attention immediately, even if they feel fine. Some injuries may not be immediately apparent and could worsen if left untreated.
In that regard, medical records also serve as vital evidence in a motorcycle accident case. Just like with the evidence we discussed before, the victim will have a document that clearly states the extent of the injuries, the required treatment, and the potential for any long-term effects.This documentation can be instrumental in calculating the compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and future medical care.
Moreover, insurance companies may argue that the lack of immediate medical treatment indicates that the injuries were not severe or not caused by the accident. Therefore, timely medical care is not only essential for health reasons but also for strengthening the motorcycle accident case.
Importance of Witness Testimony in Motorcycle Accident Cases
In addition to the elements we mentioned up to this point, witness testimony is a notable piece in a motorcycle accident case, since it can provide valuable insights into how the accident took place. Witnesses can confirm the victim’s account of the accident, helping to ascertain the at-fault party’s negligence.
Witness testimonies can be collected at the scene of the accident or later through a deposition. These can then be presented in court if the case goes to trial.
A motorcycle accident lawyer can help identify potential witnesses and collect their testimonies. They can also advise on how to use these testimonies effectively.
Where Can I Find Texas Laws Related to Motorcycle Accidents?
Understanding the laws related to motorcycle accidents in Texas is of utmost importance when pursuing a claim. These laws can be found in various sources such as:
- Texas Transportation Code, which outlines traffic laws and regulations
- Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code, which covers personal injury laws.
Additionally, the Texas Department of Insurance provides resources regarding auto insurance requirements in the state. This information can be vital when determining the ability of the at-fault party to pay for damages.
Lastly, legal professionals can provide valuable insights into these laws and how they apply to your specific case.
Key Takeaways in Navigating a Motorcycle Accident Case with a Plano Attorney
Combining everything written so far, one can conclude that a motorcycle accident case can be a fairly complex process. It requires a thorough understanding of the law, impeccable negotiation skills, and the ability to gather and present evidence in a compelling manner.
Engaging the services of a Tate Law Offices law firm can simplify this process, providing the necessary guidance and support. We can protect the victim’s rights, negotiate with the insurance company, and ensure that the victim receives the compensation they rightfully deserve.
Finally, victims must take care of their health, seek timely medical attention, and follow their lawyer’s advice throughout the process. This approach can significantly improve the outcome of the case, leading to a smoother road to recovery.
So, if you were involved in a motorcycle accident, you’re at the right place. To receive a free consultation, use our contact form or call Tate Law Offices at (972) 499-4813.