- Take These Steps After a Motorcycle Accident to Support Your Lawsuit
- Preparing to File Your Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit
- Let Berger and Green File Your Pennsylvania Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit
Motorcycle accidents in Pennsylvania can have devastating consequences, leaving victims with serious injuries, significant financial burdens, and a long road to recovery. Securing fair compensation is crucial to helping you address medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. However, navigating the legal landscape to file a motorcycle accident lawsuit in Pennsylvania can be complex and overwhelming. A Pittsburgh motorcycle accident lawyer provides invaluable guidance through the intricacies of the legal process and ensures that your rights are protected, and they help people like you fight for the justice and compensation you deserve.
Take These Steps After a Motorcycle Accident to Support Your Lawsuit
Right after your motorcycle accident, there are tasks you can do to start building your accident case. These create paper trails and show insurers that you are following proper protocols, thus strengthening your claim or lawsuit. Make sure to:
Prioritize Driver Safety and Pursue Medical Attention
Immediately after a motorcycle accident, make sure you take care of your safety and health. Move you, your passenger, and your bike to a safe location if possible, and assess yourself for injuries. Even if you feel fine, seeking medical attention is crucial.
Many injuries can take hours or days to manifest, and you may not recognize symptoms until it’s too late. Prompt medical evaluation supports your health and creates a record of your injuries, which is vital for any future legal action.
Reporting the Accident to the Police
Contact the police to report the accident. A formal police report is an official record detailing the incident’s circumstances. This document is essential for legal and insurance purposes, as it helps establish the facts of the case. In the city of Pittsburgh, for example, you should call 911. You can also visit Pittsburgh police stations to make a report.
Gathering Evidence at the Scene
If you’re able, gather evidence at the scene of the motorcycle collision. Take photographs of your motorcycle, other vehicles involved, and the surrounding area. Collect contact information from witnesses, as their accounts can support your version of events.
Notifying Your Insurance Company
Inform your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Providing them with an initial account and evidence you’ve collected helps to expedite the claims process. We urge you to be cautious in your communication and consider consulting with your attorney before giving detailed statements or accepting any settlements to ensure your rights are fully protected.
Do I Have a Motorcycle Accident Case?
Determining whether you have a viable case after a motorcycle accident in Pennsylvania hinges on several key factors:
- The extent of your injuries and damages: Did the other driver cause you harm? If you suffered damages, you have the right to sue the driver.
- The determination of fault: Establishing fault is critical; Pennsylvania operates under a comparative negligence system, meaning that compensation can be sought if you are less than 51% at fault for the accident.
- Is the statute of limitations still open?: In Pennsylvania, the law stipulates a two-year window from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit, per Pa. C.S.A. § 5524. Missing this deadline can forfeit your right to seek compensation.
Accidents can be complicated, but a lawyer can help determine if you have a case.
Motorcycle Collision Lawyers Offer Knowledge and Experience to Accident Victims
Hiring a motorcycle accident attorney means having a knowledgeable and dedicated ally who can represent you through the entire legal process. Attorneys are adept at negotiating with insurance companies, gathering essential evidence, and advocating on your behalf in court. To choose the right attorney, focus on their experience in motorcycle accident cases, success rates, and client testimonials. A motorcycle accident attorney will understand the nuances of motorcycle law and have a track record of achieving favorable outcomes for their clients.
During your initial consultation, expect a thorough review of your case, including an assessment of the accident details, injuries, and potential compensation. This meeting is also an opportunity for you to evaluate the attorney’s communication style, approach to your case, and compatibility with your needs. Be prepared to ask questions about their experience, strategy, and fees to ensure they are the right fit for your situation.
40+ years of experience from strong, knowledgeable, compassionate attorneys.
Start A Free EvaluationPreparing to File Your Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit
Preparing to file your motorcycle accident lawsuit involves meticulous documentation of your injuries and damages. This documentation should include detailed medical records, receipts for any medical treatment, and a diary of your physical and emotional recovery.
The motorcycle accident claims process begins with filing an initial complaint and proceeds through discovery, negotiations, and possibly a trial. Your lawyer must compile essential documents, such as medical records that detail the extent of your injuries, police or accident reports that establish the facts of the case, and any other evidence of damages (e.g., repair bills, wage loss).
Personal injury lawyers can help keep your case organized and on track so you can focus on resting and recovering from your collision.
Filing Your Pennsylvania Motorcycle Lawsuit
Filing a lawsuit in Pennsylvania begins with drafting and filing a complaint, which outlines your case against the defendant and the damages sought. This document is filed in the appropriate court, marking the lawsuit’s commencement.
Following the complaint, the lawsuit enters the discovery phase, where both parties present evidence and information. The parties may settle the case at this stage, but if not, it proceeds to trial, where each side presents its arguments, and a judge or jury renders a verdict. These key stages—complaint, discovery, and trial—constitute the backbone of the legal process in a motorcycle accident lawsuit.
Many motorcycle cases may be resolved before they ever need to go to court, but lawyers file lawsuits to ensure the option is available to you if it goes that far. Remember, the statute of limitations has a cutoff date for filing a lawsuit, so the sooner you file, the better.
Settlements and Negotiations in Motorcycle Accident Lawsuits
Negotiations play a crucial role in personal injury lawsuits, often leading to settlements without the need for a trial. Settling outside of court saves motorcycle accident victims time and legal expenses, providing quicker financial relief. However, it may result in lower compensation compared to what might be awarded through a trial verdict.
We know you’re hurting. We can help. Free case evaluations, home and hospital visits.
Contact Us Now For HelpLet Berger and Green File Your Pennsylvania Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit
Motorcycle accidents can result in severe injuries, costly medical expenses, and mental trauma. A personal injury attorney with Berger and Green can evaluate your case and get started on your claim and lawsuit. Don’t delay, call us today for a free consultation.
