Being involved in a motorcycle or bicycle accident can leave you with physical, emotional and financial injuries. The pursuit of being compensated for your injuries, particularly when the other driver is at-fault, can seem daunting.

Attempting to do this alone is even more overwhelming. While you are fighting insurance companies, you are also trying to heal and get back to work. This is where El Dabe Law Firm steps in. Serving Lake Forest with skilled motorcycle/bicycle accident lawyers is our #1 priority.

Even cases that appear straightforward can turn against the victim who lacks understanding of California law. That is because motorcycle cases are often very difficult to litigate, especially when pursued without legal counsel.

A number of things contribute to this difficulty:

• Nature of injuries
• Scientific theories
• Contributing factors

Some motorcyclists believe that the system is internally biased against them, which causes them to be judged more harshly. However, from the initial intake call until we hand you the settlement check, you will know that El Dabe Law Firm is on your side.

What to Do Following a Motorcycle or Bicycle Accident

Here are seven things to do when you want to build a winning case after the accident.

1. Take Pictures and Talk to Witnesses

One of the first things to do, if you are physically able, is take pictures of the accident. This includes the damaged bike, road signs, weather conditions and the other vehicle involved in the accident. Get pictures before and after any medical treatment to also document your injuries. Additionally, make sure you get the names and contact information for any witnesses on the scene.

2. Seek Medical Treatment

Most importantly, you want to seek medical treatment as soon as possible. Most accidents involving bikes can result in very serious injuries such as:

• Traumatic brain injury
• Head trauma
• Fractures
• Paralysis

It is likely that you were unconscious during the emergency room transport. Staying in the hospital for the recommended time is very important. Not only do you want to heal completely, but refusing any treatment by a healthcare provider could weaken your case.

Continuing with the treatment regimen is crucial. Obey all instructions thoroughly, including staying home from work or not participating in certain activities until you recover fully. Some claims in a motorcycle accident are not settled until the victim completes all necessary treatment.

3. Forego Repairing Your Bike

Delaying repairs to your bike might seem counterintuitive, but it could actually help to strengthen your case. Typically, the bike is a big piece of evidence. By showing the seriousness of the accident, experts can have a visual of their testimony to the severity and nature of the crash, and the veracity of your claim.

4. Keep Track of Accident-Related Expenses

Give your lawyer a list of all expenses you have incurred because of the accident. This includes medical expenses, lost wages and an estimate of the damage to your motorcycle or bicycle.

5. Never Discuss the Accident on Social Media

Stay away from social media to discuss the accident. In some situations, posting pictures or statements about what happened can compromise your accident claim. In addition, many insurance companies will investigate and look for any type of information that contradicts your assertions.

A seemingly innocuous post could deliver a devastating blow. For example, a victim who claims to be disabled from the crash should not post vacation pictures.

6. File a Damage Claim

In the state of California, you can file a claim for personal injury following a motorcycle accident at any time after it occurs. However, you only have two years to settle the claim. Otherwise, you lose your right to be compensated.

After this statute of limitation is reached, the insurance company is under no obligation to pay the claim even if there were previous negotiations. Processing injury claims is often a complex and time-consuming process.

If you hire a dependable Lake Forest motorcycle accident lawyer, he or she will immediately file your case. A lawyer’s expertise can help to accelerate the process and ensure you do not miss the deadline.

7. Talk to a Lake Forest Motorcycle/Bicycle Accident Lawyer

Retaining the service of a lawyer who is experienced with motorcycle or bicycle accidents is very important. You will get a clear understanding of your options and have the type of professional help that will substantiate your claim.