Unfortunately, a motorcyclist can do everything in their power to avoid an accident but may still find themselves lying in an emergency room after a motor vehicle driver abruptly changes lanes or makes an unprecedented maneuver leading to a collision. There are several important things to keep in mind after a motorcycle accident that will help protect your rights as an injured rider.

• 1. Avoid Speaking with Insurance Company Representatives

One of the biggest mistakes you can make after a motorcycle accident is speaking with the responsible party’s insurance company. Insurance companies are in the business of making money and will attempt to coerce you to sign a settlement agreement even while you remain in the hospital. Their offer may seem enticing, since it is a quick way to receive a lump sum payment immediately. However, there are a number of reasons why signing right away could be disastrous for your future. First of all, in the days after a severe accident, your recovery time is still undetermined. You could be out for weeks, or this could be a life-altering injury that could affect your ability to hold a job in the future. A settlement will likely only take into account the existing expenses, although may provide a little extra for the future. A settlement will also not take into consideration non-economic damages that a personal injury claim will include, such as the emotional impact of the accident and future expenses. Signing an insurance agreement soon after your accident could prevent your ability to bring a claim in the future against the responsible driver.

• 2. Remember the Limitations Period

A personal injury claim must be brought against the responsible party within three years of the date of the accident or injury. Failure to bring a claim during this time period will prevent a claim from being brought in the future, thereby completely ruining your ability to recover damages for your injuries.

• 3. File a Police Report

A police report is important after any accident; but in a severe accident which could lead to civil claims filed, it is important to have the accident on record. A police report will often interview witnesses and will help establish fault during trial. Furthermore, police reports can assist in identifying witnesses whose accounts may be used during a trial or court claim.

• 4. Hire an Attorney

While your first priority should always be on your recovery after a severe accident, it is important to contact an experienced personal injury attorney. A personal injury attorney will handle the administrative burden of filing a claim for damages and determining the fault in the accident and will work to ensure you receive the compensation you deserve after an accident leaves you injured.

If you or a loved one have been injured in a motorcycle accident, do not hesitate to contact the Malley Law Firm. Tony Malley is an experienced attorney who has handled personal injury cases relating to motorcycle accidents and will work closely with you and your family throughout this process. Contact our Beaumont and Houston offices today for your initial free consultation.