Insurance Tips After A Motorcycle Accident
Motorcycle accidents often happen in an instant but can leave long-term physical, emotional, and financial challenges in their wake. One of the first things most injured riders face is a call from the insurance company—sometimes from their own provider, sometimes from the other party’s. These conversations can significantly influence the way compensation is handled. Below are some straightforward tips to keep in mind if you’ve been involved in a motorcycle crash in the Ossining area.
What To Do Before Speaking With Insurance Companies
After a motorcycle crash, you might get a call from an insurance representative sooner than expected. It’s important not to speak with them until you’ve had a chance to collect your thoughts and gather the basic facts. Stick to the who, what, where, and when. Avoid making statements about fault or saying things like “I’m fine,” even if you feel okay in the moment. Many injuries related to motorcycle collisions don’t become obvious until hours or even days later. It’s wise to discuss your situation with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer, as they can advise you on what to say before the call happens.
Be Cautious With Recorded Statements
Insurance adjusters often ask for a recorded statement early in the process. This may seem routine, but it’s usually not in your best interest to provide one without legal guidance. Recorded statements can be used to dispute or downplay your injuries and may affect the outcome of your claim. Remember, it’s within your legal rights to politely decline to give a recorded statement or to postpone the process. Our friends at The Law Office of Jeffrey Weiskopf discuss this issue often, emphasizing the importance of protecting your rights from the start.
Keep Track Of All Related Costs
One of the most important things you can do after a motorcycle crash is to document everything. This includes medical bills, repair estimates, receipts for medications or physical therapy, and even the cost of rideshares if your bike is out of commission. If you miss work due to your injuries, track your lost wages too.
These records support your claim and give your attorney the tools needed to present a clear picture of how the accident has affected your life. Without them, it’s easy for an insurance company to downplay your total losses.
Know When To Contact A Lawyer
While some minor accidents may be settled directly, more serious motorcycle crashes often lead to disputed claims. If there are injuries, questions about fault, or significant property damage, it’s wise to reach out to a legal professional who has experience with similar cases.
Insurance companies are often incentivized to deny or reduce claims, and they may use any information gathered on the phone against you. Having someone on your side who understands the local laws and insurance strategies can make a big difference.
Whether you’re just beginning the process or dealing with delays, or denied claims, a personal injury lawyer can review your case and help you explore all of your options!
