Personal injury incidents come in different forms. The majority of people know about car accidents but what about motorcycle accidents? Despite utilizing top-notch protective gear like helmets, gloves, and boots, motorcyclists remain significantly more exposed and vulnerable on the road when compared to occupants of other vehicles. In the unfortunate event of an accident, motorcyclists lack the crucial safety features found in cars, such as airbags, which can be life-saving.
Generally, if you sustain an injury due to the negligence or the actions of another party on the road, you may be entitled to compensation.
The compensation is meant to help you recoup the financial losses incurred due to your injuries or damage of property during your motorcycle accident. Depending on the seriousness of your injuries, you may need a personal injury lawyer from a competent and reliable law firm like MidwestInjuryLawyers.com, for instance, to help you. However, you should still consult with an attorney to find out your options in such a case. Most personal injury lawyers offer a free consultation.
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When Should You Hire a Personal Injury Lawyer
When you get injured due to the actions or inactions of another person, you are allowed under the law to sue the other party for damages. You can do this on your own or get an attorney to help you. However, if any of the following applies to your case, it is a foolproof sign that you should hire a personal injury attorney for your motorcycle accident case:
You have suffered serious injuries
If you have suffered a serious injury, it’s important to hire a personal injury attorney as you may be entitled to a large compensation. However, the insurance company may not be willing to budge and offer a fair settlement. To turn the tables in your favor, get a lawyer.
You’ve received a settlement offer
If you receive a settlement offer from the insurance company immediately (usually a few days) after your injury, this is a sign that you have a strong case. The insurance company may be looking to close the case as soon as possible before you can hire an attorney. The company will try to arm-twist you into thinking that they are doing you a favor with the settlement. Don’t fall for that gimmick. Instead, hire an attorney to protect your interests.
The insurance company is frustrating you
When you file a claim on your own, the insurance company may start taking you for a ride with delay tactics. The company may do this to frustrate you and make you give up following the claim. When you find yourself in such a situation, hire a personal injury lawyer. The attorney will do the legwork of filing your claim correctly, sending the compensation demand letters, negotiating with the insurance adjusters, and ensuring your settlement is paid within a reasonable timeframe
You want to prove liability in a case
You also need an attorney in case there is contention on who caused the motorcycle accident. For example, when you are involved in a motorcycle accident, do not be surprised if the other driver tries to put the blame on you. Most drivers will not accept liability after an accident. In such a case, you can hire an attorney to gather evidence regarding the accident to ascertain where liability falls.
An experienced lawyer will follow up on witness statements, invite expert witnesses, and consult medical practitioners to build a strong case for you.
You have substantial bills to cover
When you have been left with serious injuries after an accident, you may have to pay huge medical bills. In some cases, you may be unable to earn a living during the period you are recuperating. You can hire a lawyer to help you recover the financial losses resulting from the accident.
The personal injury attorney will consider all your current direct expenses resulting from the accident and come up with a suitable compensation figure. The attorney will also factor in other things, such as the long-term financial impact of the accident on you, loss of ability to earn an income, mental anguish, and stress, among others, to ensure you will be fairly compensated for your losses.
Personal injury cases concerning motorcycle accidents can be complex and challenging for anyone. With the insurance adjusters trying to downplay your injuries, you need a professional that can counter their arguments and take them to task on settlement.
Get an attorney if any of the five instances above apply to your case.