If you’ve been hurt in a motorcycle accident in Morgantown, West Virginia, you’re probably feeling stressed and unsure of what your next steps should be. The steps you take in the days and weeks following your crash can have a big impact on your health, well-being, and ability to get fair compensation for your injuries.
That’s why it’s so important to work with an experienced Morgantown motorcycle injury lawyer who can guide you through the process and fight for your rights. Let’s go over the key steps to take after a motorcycle accident so you can protect yourself and your future.
Step 1: Get Medical Treatment
After any motorcycle accident, your top priority should be getting the medical care you need. Even if you feel okay at first, it’s best to see a doctor right away. Some injuries, like concussions and whiplash, may not show symptoms immediately but can still be very serious.
Prompt medical treatment will help ensure you get an accurate diagnosis and the care you need to recover. Seeing a doctor also creates an official record linking your injuries to the accident, which will be important evidence if you need to file an insurance claim or lawsuit later on.
When you go to your appointments, be sure to follow your doctor’s treatment plan closely. This may include things like attending follow-up visits, getting imaging tests or lab work done, taking prescribed medications, and doing physical therapy. Sticking to your treatment plan will help you heal faster and show the insurance company that you’re taking your recovery seriously. Keep copies of all your medical bills and records, as these will be key for documenting your injuries and expenses.
If you’re having trouble affording your medical care, Desai Law can help. We can work with your doctors and the insurance companies to make sure your treatment is covered. We may also be able to connect you with medical funding companies who can help pay your bills now in exchange for a portion of your future settlement. The most important thing is ensuring you’re able to access the care you need without going into debt.
Step 2: Be Cautious When Talking to Insurance Companies
After your motorcycle crash, you’ll likely hear from the other driver’s insurance company fairly quickly. They may seem friendly and concerned about your well-being, but it’s important to remember that their ultimate goal is to pay out as little as possible on your claim. Insurance adjusters are trained to ask questions in a way that can trick you into admitting fault or downplaying your injuries.
To protect yourself, it’s best to avoid giving a recorded statement or signing anything from the insurance company until you’ve talked to a motorcycle injury lawyer. You’re not legally required to give a statement, and doing so without legal counsel could seriously hurt your case. If the adjuster pressures you, simply tell them you need to consult with your attorney first. At Desai Law, we can handle all communication with the insurance company on your behalf, making sure your rights are protected.
It’s also smart to be cautious about what you post on social media after your motorcycle accident. Insurance companies will often scour an injured person’s social media profiles, looking for anything they can use to deny or minimize the claim. For example, if you post photos of yourself out and about after the crash, they may argue that your injuries aren’t that serious. To be safe, it’s best to avoid posting about your accident or injuries online at all until your case is fully resolved.
Step 3: Call a Morgantown Motorcycle Injury Lawyer
Consulting with an experienced Morgantown motorcycle injury lawyer is one of the most important steps you can take after a crash. Motorcycle accident cases can be complicated, and the insurance company will have a team of adjusters and attorneys fighting to pay you as little as possible. Hiring your own Morgantown motorcycle accident lawyer levels the playing field and ensures you have a skilled professional in your corner advocating for your best interests.
Look for a motorcycle injury attorney with a track record of successfully handling cases like yours in the Morgantown area. Schedule a free initial consultation to discuss the details of your accident and learn about your legal options. Most personal injury lawyers work on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay anything upfront, and they only collect a fee if they win money for you. This makes it possible for anyone to afford high-quality legal representation.
At Desai Law, we will thoroughly investigate your motorcycle crash to determine who was at fault and gather evidence to build a strong case on your behalf. This may involve things like interviewing witnesses, examining police reports and medical records, consulting with accident reconstruction experts, and more. We will also handle all communication and negotiation with the insurance company to secure a fair settlement covering all your losses. If the insurer does not offer an adequate settlement, we will file a lawsuit and fight for you in court.
In addition to compensation for your medical expenses, we can help you recover money for things like lost wages from missed work, reduced earning capacity if you’ve been left disabled, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and more. We will fight to ensure you receive maximum compensation for ALL the ways your life has been impacted by the accident.
Step 4: Focus on Your Recovery
Dealing with the aftermath of a serious motorcycle crash can be stressful and draining, both physically and emotionally. Throughout the legal process, it’s important to prioritize your health and well-being. Attend all your medical appointments, follow your treatment plan, and give your body the rest it needs to heal. Don’t push yourself to return to work or other activities too quickly.
Surround yourself with supportive friends and family who can offer encouragement and practical assistance, like helping with household chores or providing transportation to appointments. If you’re struggling with the emotional impact of the accident, don’t hesitate to reach out for professional help. Many people find it beneficial to work with a mental health counselor or join a support group for motorcycle accident survivors.
Remember that recovering from a serious crash is a marathon, not a sprint. Be patient with yourself and celebrate each milestone along the way. As your Morgantown motorcycle accident attorney, we will handle the legal heavy lifting so you can focus on getting better. Having a skilled attorney on your side can make all the difference in securing the financial resources you need to put your life back together after a devastating wreck.
Contact a Morgantown Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today
Hiring a motorcycle injury lawyer is one of the most important steps you can take if you’ve been hurt in a crash in Morgantown, West Virginia. An experienced attorney will fight for your rights, handle communication with the insurance company, and work tirelessly to get you the full and fair compensation you deserve.
If you’re ready to learn more about your legal options, contact Desai Law today at (304) 974-1974 or info@thedesaifirm.com to schedule a free consultation with a skilled Morgantown motorcycle injury lawyer. We’re here to help you turn your tragedy into triumph.