Your New Orleans, LA motorcycle accident lawyer can help you get the compensation you deserve. And at Kiefer & Kiefer, we’re ready to use our 100+ years of combined legal experience to walk you through your next steps. Read on to see the common mistakes many riders make after an accident, and contact us today to get started.
Leaving The Scene Too Quickly
One of the biggest mistakes a rider can make is leaving the scene of the accident too soon. Even if the crash seems minor, it’s important to stay until law enforcement arrives and files an official report. This report will serve as a record of what happened, which can be very important if there are disputes about fault later on.
Failing To Seek Medical Attention
Some injuries are not immediately obvious after a motorcycle accident. Adrenaline can mask pain, and what feels like a minor ache could turn out to be a serious injury. Many riders make the mistake of skipping a medical evaluation because they feel fine at the moment.
Getting checked by a doctor right away creates a medical record that links your injuries to the accident. This step is very important for both your health and for any potential insurance claim you may file. Waiting too long to see a doctor can lead to questions about whether the injuries were related to the crash.
Admitting Fault At The Scene
It’s natural to feel shaken after an accident and want to apologize, even if you didn’t do anything wrong. However, admitting fault or making statements that could be interpreted as accepting blame can hurt your case.
At the scene, it’s best to focus on exchanging information and providing factual details to the police. Avoid making guesses about what happened or who is responsible. Even a simple comment like “I didn’t see you coming” can be used against you later.
Not Gathering Evidence
Another mistake riders often make is failing to collect evidence at the scene. If you are able to do so safely, take photos of the accident site, your motorcycle, the other vehicle, and any visible injuries. Also, get the names and contact information of witnesses who saw the crash.
Talking To Insurance Companies Without Help
After a motorcycle accident, insurance adjusters may call you quickly to discuss the crash. While it might seem like they are trying to help, their goal is often to pay out as little as possible. Riders sometimes make the mistake of giving recorded statements or accepting quick settlement offers without understanding the long-term impact.
Waiting Too Long To Take Action
Time limits apply to motorcycle accident claims, and waiting too long to take action can result in losing the right to file. Some riders delay because they are focused on healing or because they think their injuries are not serious enough to pursue a claim.
Taking The Right Steps Forward
The decisions you make after a motorcycle accident can have a lasting effect on your recovery, both physically and financially. At Kiefer & Kiefer, we have helped clients with motorcycle accidents, car accidents, and more. Now, we’re ready to use our legal knowledge to help you with your case. Contact us today, and let’s get started together.
