If you were struck by another vehicle while riding your motorcycle and you intend to take action, it’s just as important to review what not to do. Here are the most common mistakes to avoid after a motorcycle accident. After all, it’s possible to jeopardize even the strongest claim by making even a seemingly minor misstep.
Read on for some of the most common mistakes that motorcycle accident victims tend to make so you can avoid hurting your own case inadvertently:
Providing a Recorded Statement
Fairly soon after the wreck, the insurance adjuster will probably reach out and request a recorded statement. He or she may even give you the impression that the carrier won’t be able to process your claim without one.
Generally speaking, however, it’s advisable to refuse such a request, especially before you’ve conducted your own investigation. Otherwise, you might end up saying something that proves untrue, thereby giving the adjuster reason to challenge your credibility. If need be, you can request an interview in lieu of a recorded statement.
In that same vein, you shouldn’t comment on the damages until you’ve confirmed their extent. Otherwise, you could essentially “lock in” the total compensation to which you’re entitled. Learn more about recorded statements here.
Putting off Treatment
Even if you were able to walk away from the scene, it’s imperative that you visit a doctor as soon as possible. Seeking prompt care will ensure you receive treatment for any and all injuries, including those that aren’t manifesting symptoms yet.
Postponing medical care, on the other hand, could make it challenging to prove causation because there won’t be a paper trail linking your condition directly to the accident in question. What’s more, you could be deemed liable for a portion of the damages if you suffer complications because you failed to undergo a timely examination.
Staying Active on Social Media
Motorcycle accident attorneys typically advise their clients to disable their social media accounts until their claim has been resolved. Since the insurance adjuster will attempt to monitor your online activity, staying offline altogether is the easiest way to avoid jeopardizing your case.
If you cannot do so, make sure to toggle your privacy settings so only approved connections can access your profiles. Additionally, avoid publishing anything about the accident, your recovery, your social life or your expenditures. Do not delete any social media posts that you may have already made about the incident and be mindful of what you do post.
Failing to Document Damages
Texas allows personal injury claimants to seek compensation for both economic and non-economic damages. Before you can secure a single dollar, though, you’ll have to prove that you did, in fact, incur such losses. To pursue the maximum payout possible, make sure to track all damages from day one. Keep receipts from repairs to your motorcycle and all medical treatment that you need.
Call 713-893-8808 for a Free Consultation with a Houston Motorcycle Accident Attorney
If you were hurt in a motorcycle accident, turn to Chelsie King Garza, P.C. for strategic guidance. For more than 19 years, attorney Garza has been counseling injured parties and their families across the state of Texas.
In addition to motor-vehicle collisions, she is well-versed in medical malpractice, birth injuries, defective products, premises liability, dog bites, and workplace accidents. Call 713-893-8808 or fill out her Contact Form to schedule a free consultation with a motorcycle accident lawyer in Houston.
