If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident in Media, PA, it’s essential to know what to avoid. Simple missteps can derail your claim and reduce the compensation you deserve. At Silver & Silver, our motorcycle accident attorneys in Media, PA, outline five key mistakes that could impact your case and how to steer clear of them.
1. Not Seeking Immediate Medical Attention
Even if you feel fine after the accident, seeking medical attention immediately is crucial. Motorcycle accidents can cause injuries that don’t present symptoms immediately, such as concussions or internal injuries. Failing to see a doctor not only risks your health but can also weaken your claim. Insurance companies may argue that your injuries aren’t serious if you delay treatment, making it harder to secure fair compensation.
Tip: Get checked out by a doctor immediately after your accident. Having documented medical records is critical when building your case.
2. Failing to Report the Accident
Pennsylvania law requires you to report any accident that results in injury, death, or significant property damage. Some riders skip this step, especially if the other driver seems cooperative, but this can backfire. Failing to file a police report leaves you without an official record of the accident, which insurance companies rely on to assess fault and damages.
Tip: Always report the accident, no matter how minor it may seem. A police report provides an unbiased account of what happened, which is essential for proving liability.
3. Admitting Fault at the Scene
Feeling shaken after an accident is natural, but be mindful of what you say. Apologizing or admitting fault at the scene can be used against you later, even if you aren’t to blame. Pennsylvania follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning your compensation can be reduced if you are found partially responsible for the accident.
Tip: Stick to the facts when speaking to the other driver, police, or witnesses. Don’t speculate about what happened or apologize; this could hurt your claim later.
4. Handling the Insurance Claim on Your Own
Many people think they can handle their insurance claim without a lawyer, but this is a mistake. Insurance companies are focused on minimizing payouts, and they have experienced adjusters who may try to offer you a low settlement or get you to say something that could damage your case. Without legal guidance, you might settle for far less than you deserve.
Tip: Before speaking with an insurance adjuster, consult with a motorcycle accident attorney in Media. An experienced lawyer will help you understand your rights and negotiate on your behalf to ensure you receive fair compensation.
5. Waiting Too Long to Take Action
Pennsylvania law limits your time to file a personal injury claim after a motorcycle accident. This is known as the statute of limitations, and waiting too long can mean forfeiting your right to compensation. Delaying legal action can make it harder to gather evidence and find witnesses who can support your case.
Tip: Don’t wait to speak with an attorney. The sooner you take action, the better your chances of building a strong case and securing the compensation you deserve.
How an Attorney Can Help You Avoid These Mistakes
An attorney helps by guiding you through every step of the process, ensuring you don’t fall into common traps like admitting fault or accepting a low settlement. They’ll handle communication with the insurance company, protect your rights, and gather evidence to strengthen your claim.
Attorneys also ensure you meet important deadlines, such as filing within the statute of limitations, and can provide valuable medical care and documentation advice. By having a legal professional in your corner, you can focus on recovery while they work to secure the compensation you deserve.
Protect Your Rights After a Motorcycle Accident
Navigating the aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be overwhelming, but avoiding these common mistakes will help protect your rights and maximize your claim. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact our motorcycle accident attorneys in Media. We’re here to guide you through the legal process and ensure you get the compensation you deserve.
Call us today for a free consultation, and let us help you get back on track.
Disclosure:
This website is designed to provide only general information. The information presented on this website is not formal legal advice. You should not rely on any general information from any source for making legal decisions. Each legal matter is unique and requires specific attention from a qualified and experienced attorney. Unless a representation agreement has been signed with the Law Offices of Silver and Silver, we are not your legal representatives.
