More than 82,000 motorcyclists are injured in crashes each year. In many cases, these accidents are the fault of other drivers who failed to notice or respect the motorcycles and their riders on the open road. This should qualify the injured cyclists for insurance payouts but, in practice, it is rare for insurers to offer appropriate compensation without a fight.
If you are in a motorcycle accident, you can expect to need an attorney. Here are the top seven types of motorcycle crash records that an attorney will need to get you the compensation you deserve.
1. Official Police Report
So you were in an accident. You were smart and went straight to Sweetlaw.com to secure the best possible attorney. The first thing that attorney is going to want to look at is the official police report associated with your accident.
This report will include statements from witnesses and other key information that your attorney needs to build a strong case.
2. Unofficial Motorcycle Crash Records and Documentation
In the modern world where most of us have cameras and video recorders built into our phones, official documentation is no longer the only documentation of a scene likely to exist. Informal photos and videos can play an essential role in bringing anything that police may have missed or recorded inaccurately to light. They can also highlight mitigating factors and other relevant information that can help you hold insurance companies accountable.
3. Vehicle Damage Report
A vehicle damage report is always important, but it can be extra critical if your bike sported any upgraded parts or custom modifications at the time of the accident as it proves the:
- Actual state of your bike at the time of the crash
- Full extent of the damage
- Real cost to repair, restore, or replace your bike to its pre-crash condition
Damage reports can also serve as proof of contested facts about how the accident occurred.
4. Medical Records and Bills
You will need to show medical records and bills related to your accident to your attorney, as well. Keep in mind that in many cases you can only recoup what you can prove. No bill is too small to keep and forward to your motorcycle accident lawyer.
5. Proof of Vehicle Value
Your vehicle damage report might not be enough to document the full value of your motorcycle. If it is not, talk to your lawyer about what other forms of evidence they may need.
6. Proof of Income
To get insurers to compensate you for missed work and the lost income associated with it, you will need to provide proof of income. This typically takes the form of paystubs, W-2s, or other common equivalents.
7. Insurance Information
Expect your attorney to ask for:
- Your insurance information
- Any insurance information the other parties involved in the accident provided to you
- Copies of any communication you received since the accident from an insurance company or representative
Never accept any settlements or funding from an insurer without first consulting your attorney as this can compromise your ability to get the full amount owed to you later.
Learn More
Keeping good motorcycle crash records can be key to getting the money you deserve. Learn more about choosing, maintaining, and enjoying vehicles of every kind by browsing the Cars and Gear section of our blog today.
