Motorcycle collisions can cause serious injuries. Depending on the nature of the accident, the motorcyclist can be thrown off the vehicle and violently hit the ground. Compensation may be due when riders are struck by negligent drivers, as the injured party will need medical care, and their motorcycle will likely be damaged.
Some lawyers can offer support after a roadway injury, but they will need adequate information about the accident to help the victim get their due compensation. Through their lawyer, a victim can file an insurance claim and demand that the at-fault party compensate them for the accident.
They can also demand compensation for property damage, pain and suffering, medical expenses, and lost wages. If the accident victim dies, their family can demand compensation for wrongful death.
Timeline for Receiving Compensation
The timeline for receiving compensation depends on how much the at-fault party is willing to cooperate. The at-fault party may try to dispute their culpability in the accident, but if there is clear evidence, like dashcam footage, they may not succeed.
If the at-fault party is clearly responsible, they can negotiate a settlement with the victim and compensate them within one to three months. However, if the case is more complex, the compensation can come in within six to 18 months. The insurance company involved in this situation is expected to process the claim quickly and fairly. According to California’s Fair Claims Settlement Practices Regulations, the payout should be within 85 days.
There are cases where an at-fault party refuses to be held accountable, the case can end up in court. In these cases, a judge or jury will analyze the evidence surrounding the case to determine who is culpable for the accident. If they determine that the at-fault is liable for the accident, they will determine an amount that the victim should receive as compensation. The timeline for compensation payment in such cases is determined by the judge overseeing the case.
Steps Victims Should Take to Ensure Fast Compensation
To eliminate possible delays in requesting and receiving compensation, accident victims should take the following steps:
- Capture evidence at the accident scene: After the accident occurs, the victim should take clear photos and record clear videos of the accident scene. They should also record eyewitness statements to add to the validity of their claims.
- Contact a motorcycle accident lawyer: Motorcycle accident lawyers will provide legal counsel to victims so they avoid making mistakes that can jeopardize their compensation claims.
- Get a medical report: Victims should go to the hospital after leaving the accident scene so they can get a medical checkup and a report that will detail the extent to which they were injured.
- Get a police report: It is advisable to call the police after an accident so they can properly document what happened at the scene. The resulting police report can serve as valuable information when adjudicating who caused the accident.
Endnote
Motorcycle accidents are unfortunate occurrences that often result in serious injuries. If you have sufficient evidence and consult a seasoned motorcycle accident lawyer, you can quickly demand and receive just compensation from the at-fault party.