New Jersey motorcycle accidents occur disproportionately more often than car accidents. In other words, motorcycle riding can be riskier than driving or riding in a car. If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, injuries can be severe. This could mean costly medical bills and being forced to miss work. If the accident was caused by a negligent driver, you may be entitled to file a claim seeking compensation for your losses.
Read below to learn some of the do’s and don’ts of New Jersey motorcycle accidents and how legal representation can help you get compensation in the long run.
Do Seek Immediate Medical Attention
If you are seriously injured in a motorcycle crash, medical professionals will likely already be called to the scene. It’s critical to accept and receive medical treatment, even if you think your injuries are minor. Some injuries may be slow to present symptoms or the shock of the events may be numbing you to pain and soreness.
Seeking immediate medical care not only starts the process of recovering from your injuries but also creates evidence for a potential claim. If you fail to get the necessary treatment, the insurance company may claim you aren’t injured.
Do Gather Evidence and Witness Info
If possible after the accident, ask other drivers, passengers and witnesses for their contact information. You should get their names, phone numbers, and email addresses. If you file a claim, your New Jersey motorcycle accident lawyer will want to speak with everyone involved in the crash.
As soon as you’re able, write down all of the details you remember about the accident. Memories can fade so it's important to capture as much detail as you can in the immediate aftermath. Take pictures at the scene, if you can. And, take pictures of your injuries as they heal.
Do Contact an Attorney
It’s essential to work with a personal injury lawyer when dealing with a New Jersey motorcycle accident. An experienced attorney will know how to investigate the accident to uncover evidence and prove liability. They will also know how to maximize the amount of compensation you can seek in a claim.
Even in a no-fault insurance state like New Jersey, it’s important to discuss your case with a lawyer. Insurance companies -- including your own -- are notorious for giving injured victims the run-around and attempting to deny or devalue claims. Hiring an attorney is in your best interest. And, most personal injury attorneys only charge a fee if you win your claim.
Don’t Leave the Scene
The only reason you should leave the scene of the motorcycle crash is to obtain medical care via ambulance. Do not leave the scene before the police arrive. If you leave, you may be charged with leaving the scene of an accident.
Don’t Sign Anything from the Insurance Company Without Talking With a Lawyer
After an accident, you may hear from insurance adjusters asking for statements and offering you a settlement. Your insurance carrier may pressure you into giving a statement or information that could hurt you down the line. Insurance companies may also offer you a monetary settlement for your injuries. Don’t sign an insurance settlement without discussing your case with an attorney. Once you sign and accept a settlement, you forego all rights to file a claim and additional compensation.
Call Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, for Help
When you contact Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law we will take the time to review your case and determine the legal options you can pursue to recover damages. We handle the communications and negotiations with insurance companies and build your case to pursue maximum compensation for your injuries. Don’t be left on the hook for medical bills and expenses that are not your fault.
At Brandon J. Broderick, Attorney at Law, we are dedicated to assisting clients throughout New Jersey and New York with their motorcycle accident and personal injury cases. We have decades of experience and the extensive resources you need to secure a fair case result. Our compassionate attorneys put client care and your needs first. Contact us immediately for a free legal review.