Often following some type of motor vehicle accident (including a motorcycle accident), you hear of what you should do. You know that you should speak with your lawyer, see a doctor so they will treat your injuries, and begin the process of filing your claim as quickly as possible. However, you may not have heard of things that you should not do. It’s true, following your accident there is a list of things that you should know not to do to ensure your claim goes as smoothly as possible.
Do Not Speak With an Insurance Agent
Your lawyer is going to be the best person for this job. You will want them to be there every step of the way to help negotiate a settlement for you. Further, insurance agents, though they purport to have your best interests in mind, only care about paying out as little as possible. If you speak with an insurance agent, they will try to get as much information out of you as possible to use against you in your claim.
Do Not Apologize After the Accident
Even if you had nothing to do with the accident, you may be tempted to apologize when you see the other driver. This can be a force of habit. However, if you apologize it can come off as if you were partially responsible for the accident. If this gets back to the other party’s insurance, they will try to use this to say that you caused the accident or were part of the reason it occurred.
Do Not Consent to a Recorded Statement
Insurance agents love to record conversations with people. In fact, insurance agents will try to get you to say as much as possible so that they can go back and use anything you say in your recovered statement to pay you as small of a settlement as possible.
Do Not Take a Settlement Offer Without Speaking With Your Lawyer
You should not be the one talking with the agent about a settlement offer. Your lawyer has the responsibility of listening to any settlement offers that come your way and can speak with you about whether it is a reasonable settlement offer or whether you should negotiate for something higher.
Do Not File a Motorcycle Claim Without a Lawyer
Many people believe that when they have been in an accident they can pursue compensation without a lawyer. While it is true that you could pursue compensation without legal help, that does not mean you will be successful. Your best option is to speak with a member of our team as soon as you have been in a motorcycle accident and see how we can help you with your claim.
