How to Settle Your Own Motorcycle Accident Claim
Motorcycle riders know the exhilaration and freedom of cruising the open road. But as wonderful as it can be, it's undeniably dangerous to ride, usually because drivers of cars and trucks don't see you or are simply careless. Even the best riders will be involved in pursing an accident insurance claim. An accident causing significant bodily injury will require the assistance of an experienced attorney. Accidents involving only property damage or soft-tissue injury can usually be resolved without hiring an attorney. Knowing how to settle this type of motorcycle accident insurance claim is almost as important as knowing how to ride.
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Instructions
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Seek medical treatment immediately after an accident and follow your doctor's advice. You are entitled to seek compensation for your medical bills and treatment whether or not you have medical insurance. Don't settle your claim until you complete your medical treatment.
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Start a file to document everything related to your claim. The first document in your file should be your own notes about the accident. Your file should also include all documents related to your medical treatment and your property damages. If you are claiming loss of earnings, you will need documentation from your employer.
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Contact the insurance company to give notice of your claim and obtain information needed to communicate with the adjuster assigned to your case; however, don't make any statements about the accident or your injuries while you are still being treated by your doctor.
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Determine your property damages. You are entitled to have your motorcycle repaired or replaced. Property damages can also include loss of earnings and out-of-pocket expenses caused by the accident.
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Calculate your total damages. Add up your damages for medical treatment and property damage. In any case where you received medical treatment, you are also entitled to compensation for your pain and suffering.
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Make a written demand to the adjuster for payment of all your damages, including pain and suffering. Be prepared to provide copies of all documents that support your claim.
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Tips & Warnings
Anticipate a period of negotiation after making your demand for payment. The most likely area of compromise will be payment for pain and suffering because there are no set rules on how it's calculated. Therefore, make sure your demand includes an amount for pain and suffering that is the most favorable to you without exaggerating your injuries to the point where you lose credibility.
