If you have been in an accident, it is always important to prioritize your health. In the days following a motorcycle accident, you should see a doctor, even if you do not think your injuries are severe. Once you (and your passenger, if you had one) have been taken care of, you can think about taking legal action against the liable party.
What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident: A Timeline
Accidents can be unexpected, frightening, and traumatic events. Having a clear timeline to follow can help relieve some of your post-accident stress by outlining your next steps. Do what you can, and consult an attorney if you have any questions or doubts.
In the Days After the Crash
If your injuries are severe or life-threatening, you might have to stay in the hospital for an extended period of time. If you have not yet had a medical exam, make an appointment as soon as possible and follow your doctor’s instructions. Some accident injuries do not appear until hours or days after the fact, so be sure to schedule a check-up even if you feel okay.
Take as long as you can to recover physically and psychologically. Spend time with people closest to you and ask for help if and when you need it.
In the Years After the Crash
If you want to sue the party responsible for your accident, start as soon as possible. Not only will starting sooner make it easier to collect evidence, but it is also the law. Ohio Revised Code Section 2305.10 states that accident victims have only two years from the date of the incident to take steps toward legal action.
In short, while you might not want to rush into anything, you do want to begin exploring your options before the statute of limitations expires.
A Lawyer Can Help You Fight for Your Money
After any motorcycle accident, you have the right to pursue compensation for your losses. You might want to consult an attorney before you make any legal decisions. Many law firms can tell you quickly and at no cost whether you have a viable case. You can then decide whether to hire a lawyer to help you with things like:
- Understanding your legal options
- Assigning a monetary value to your case
- Communicating with the liable party on your behalf
- Collecting evidence to support your lawsuit
- Updating you on your case’s progress
- Negotiating for a fair settlement
- Preparing the settlement agreement and all other paperwork
- Scheduling court dates, if necessary
- Representing you in the courtroom, if necessary
- Answering all of your questions, big and small
- Advising you on your legal choices
Your Injuries May Entitle You to Monetary Compensation
Per the Insurance Information Institute (III), if a motorcyclist is involved in a crash, they are much more likely to be seriously injured or killed than car passengers. These injuries may lead to economic, or monetary, damages such as:
- Medical treatment: You needed one or more types of treatment for your injuries, such as medication, physical therapy, or surgery.
- Repairs: The accident damaged or totaled your motorcycle.
- Funeral bills: After your loved one succumbed to their accident injuries, you arranged for their funeral and settled their estate.
- Loss of wages: Your injuries were serious enough that you had to take a leave of absence from work.
Your injuries may also lead to non-economic, or physical and emotional, damages like:
- Pain and suffering: Your injuries were or continue to be a source of physical and emotional stress.
- Physical disability: The accident cost you the use of a limb, an organ, or any other body part.
- Intellectual disability: You suffered a head injury that has affected your memory or your ability to learn new information.
- Loss of companionship: You have lost your loved one and, with them, an invaluable source of comfort and affection.
Call the Fitch Law Firm LLC Today
In the days following a motorcycle accident, you should do what you can to protect your health and legal rights. One way to pursue the compensation you deserve is by hiring the Fitch Law Firm LLC to represent you. Call us at (614) 545-3930 for a free evaluation. You will not pay us anything until you recover compensation.