Motorcycles are fun vehicles, especially for those of us who love exploring the world. Nonetheless, they can also be very dangerous. Over 80,000 motorcyclists are injured each year, about 5,000 of which are fatalities. Understanding the way motorcycle insurance crash claims work is important before committing to a policy. Here are steps to take if you are involved in a motorcycle collision.
- Call the Authorities to File a Report
You should immediately call 911 on your smartphone once a motorcycle accident occurs. Most states require you to notify authorities if there’s property damage or someone is injured. Failure to do so could mean paying fines and having a more difficult time recovering losses. It’s important to get an accident report, even for minor damages. After an officer has completed an accident report, you should request a copy to be sent to you.
- Gather All Possible Evidence
At the accident scene, you should collect as much evidence as possible, depending on the severity of the crash. You should try to get contact information from all the parties involved in the accident, along with witnesses. Use the camera on your phone to take several pictures of the accident from different angles. Be sure to take photos of any property damage or personal injuries. The more evidence you collect from the accident scene, the stronger your claim will be.
- Seek Medical Attention
If you’ve been injured, you should seek medical help immediately. Motorcycle accidents can lead to concussions, broken bones, spinal alignment problems, and various other injuries. Your motorcycle insurance policy pays for doctor visits, medical treatment, hospital stays, surgery, and other bills relating to your health. Keep track of your hospital visits to gauge your recovery progress.
- File a Claim with Your Insurer
Most motorcycle insurance policies have strict deadlines for filing claims, so make sure you notify your insurer as soon as possible. Be aware of your policy’s requirements and coverage limits prior to filing a claim. Also, make sure to provide 100 percent accurate information so that the claim isn’t denied later on when the truth is discovered. Be aware that filing a false claim can follow you around even when switching insurers, as the insurance industry keeps a vast database on various claims data.
- Negotiate
Your insurer may give you an offer for reimbursement right away, but you don’t have to accept it if it falls short of your expectations. It’s typical for an insurer to offer less than the possible full amount of a motorcycle insurance crash settlement. However, if you have the accident report and plenty of evidence to justify your claim, you might try negotiating a higher settlement with the insurer.
- Seek an Attorney
If your claim turns into a court case, you should consult with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney. Many cases are settled out of court, in which a skilled attorney can help negotiate settlements. It will definitely increase your odds of winning the settlement you’re looking for, especially if the evidence clearly points in your favor. An attorney can further help your case by assessing damages and gathering crucial evidence.
Surrounding yourself with the right experts can simplify a future motorcycle insurance crash claim. If you are thinking of purchasing a motorcycle and need insurance coverage, make sure to get an accurate motorcycle insurance quote. At McCarty Insurance, we can help you find a suitable insurance policy to fit your budget and needs. Contact us today to get started!
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