Skilled Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Serving Decatur, Georgia
Each year across the United States, almost 2,000 motorcyclists die in motorcycle accidents, and another 50,000 sustain injuries. These accidents can happen anywhere, even in Decatur.
If you are the victim of a motorcycle accident, Charles Scholle and his team of experienced Decatur motorcycle accident attorneys at Scholle Law are here to help.
For over 25 years, we have represented victims of motorcycle accidents throughout DeKalb County.
In that time, we have found that both insurance companies and juries have a habit of looking down on bikers, often blaming them for their own injuries.
Our team will work tirelessly to make sure you are treated fairly and get the full compensation you deserve after a wreck.
Call us or contact us online for a free, no-obligation consultation with a Decatur motorcycle accident attorney today.
What Motorcycle Insurance Do I Need?
Before an accident even happens, there are steps you can take to make sure you are protected. Most importantly, make sure that you have motorcycle insurance coverage, and make sure you fully comprehend what that coverage entails.
Many people believe that they have a full coverage policy, only to find that they did not have full coverage when they are attempting to make a claim. By definition, a full coverage policy only needs to have some form of coverage in each category, but does not specify how much coverage is in each category. This means you could have almost no coverage in medical, but be fully covered in liability.
When you purchase insurance, it is extremely important to figure out exactly what your insurance policy actually covers. This way, if you ever do find yourself in a position where you need to file a claim, you know what damages you can be compensated for, and there are no unpleasant surprises.
Dealing with the insurance company after a motorcycle accident
When you are involved in a motorcycle accident, you will need to interact with your insurance company again. However, it is wise to consult with an experienced attorney before talking to your insurance company, and especially before talking to the insurance company representing the other person involved in the accident.
Insurance companies are just looking out for their own financial interests. They want to pay you as little as possible and will do everything they can to avoid paying out large settlements, including twisting your own words to put the blame on you. Answering questions for the other individual’s insurance company without knowledge of what to say – and more importantly, what not to say – could put you at a disadvantage later.
When you do call your insurance company, stay calm and polite, and follow these tips to avoid saying something that could hurt your case later on:
- Say you do not want to be recorded: Your own insurer will record your conversation by default, and there is not much you can do about it since this is likely required by your policy. However, if you are contacted by the other party’s insurance provider, you can refuse to be recorded. Regardless, be very careful with what you say.
- Tell them the factual details of the accident: This should be limited to where and when it occurred, your identifying information, and the information of other parties involved in the wreck. If they ask for further details, tell them an investigation has not been completed, and therefore you do not have that information at this time.
- Do not give details of your injuries: Just after a wreck, you may not be fully aware of your injuries. Shock and adrenaline may mask any pain, while some injuries may not become apparent for days after the incident. Rather than listing your injuries, simply tell the adjuster that you are still receiving medical treatment.
- Do not offer opinions: The other driver may have slammed into the back of your motorcycle. They may have driven you off the road. Even if it seems obvious who is at fault, resist the urge to give any opinions. If you are asked, refer the adjuster to the forthcoming police report.
Speak To A Decatur Motorcycle Accident Attorney First
You are required to report any accident to your insurance company within 24 to 48 hours of the incident, depending on the details of your policy. When you do, remember that they are not on your side. They will look for any reason to lessen or outright deny your claim.
To avoid damaging your claim, speak to an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer first. Your lawyer can provide guidance and advice at no cost regarding what to say to your insurer. In some cases, your attorney can handle the entire process on your behalf.
Hiring a skilled attorney will simply help you protect your right to fair compensation. Call us or contact us online for a free, no-obligation consultation with a Decatur motorcycle accident attorney today.
Georgia Motorcycle Accident Lawyer, Georgia Truck Accident Lawyer