Being involved in a motorcycle accident is every rider’s worst nightmare. And dealing with insurance companies afterward often adds more stress. Knowing your rights and following some best practices can help the process go more smoothly when negotiating with insurers after a motorcycle crash in Kansas. Here’s what you should do following an accident:
Report the Accident
The first thing you should do after any traffic accident is contact the police so there is an official report filed. Be sure to get the report number and request a copy for your records. Even if the accident seems minor with no injuries, having the documentation from the police can help support your claim later.
Seek Medical Attention
Always get medical care immediately after a motorcycle crash, even if you don’t think you were seriously hurt. Some injuries like concussions or internal damage may not have obvious symptoms at first. Seeing a doctor right away provides documentation of your condition before treatment begins. Delaying could make your injuries appear less serious later.
Notify Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible to report the motorcycle accident and potential claim. Provide basic details like the date, location, other vehicles/drivers involved, and your injuries. Ask what information they require to proceed. Do not admit fault.
Cooperate with the Claims Process
Insurance companies need certain information to properly investigate the accident and process a claim. Be responsive to their requests, but don’t provide unnecessary personal information. Provide a recorded statement if asked but avoid speculative comments about what happened or accepting blame. Keep copies of all documents you give to the insurer.
Track Expenses
Keep careful records of all expenses related to the motorcycle accident, including medical bills, lost wages from missed work, property damage, and any other costs. This documentation will support compensation requested from the insurance company.
Understand the Value of Your Claim
Serious injuries caused by a motorcycle accident may be entitled to compensation for economic damages like medical bills and lost income, plus non-economic damages for pain and suffering. An experienced personal injury attorney can evaluate the value of your claim under Kansas law and negotiate the maximum settlement.
Hire a Motorcycle Accident Attorney
An attorney experienced with motorcycle crash claims understands the negotiation tactics used by insurance companies and can maximize your compensation. They will deal directly with insurers while you focus on recovery. Most personal injury attorneys work on contingency, meaning legal fees come out of any settlement.
Evaluate Settlement Offers Carefully
Insurance companies may try to pressure quick settlements for less than your claim is worth. Discuss any settlement offer thoroughly with your attorney before accepting. Getting experienced legal advice is crucial to avoid settling for too little, too early.
Consider Legal Action if Necessary
If an insurance company denies your claim or won’t negotiate fairly, legal action like filing a personal injury lawsuit may be required. An attorney can pursue compensation in court if a satisfactory out-of-court settlement can’t be reached.
Dealing with insurance companies after a motorcycle accident involves many complex issues. An experienced Kansas attorney can protect your rights and handle claim negotiations so you can focus on healing. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle crash, contact the dedicated legal team at Monge & Associates for a free consultation at (888) 477-0597.
With 32 offices in 19 states, including Kansas, Missouri, and Illinois, we have helped people across the country recover compensation after serious accidents for years. Call now to learn how we can help you too.