According to the US NHTS, there were about 8,730 motorcycle fatalities during the first three months of 2021. This is a 10.5% increase compared to the first quarter of 2020. During the first quarter of 2020, there were 7,900 fatalities projected by the agency.
Contact an Oakland motorcycle accident lawyer immediately if you are an injured motorcyclist. But there are specific documents your lawyer will need to see for them to understand your case.
It's essential to be well prepared by knowing what to include in your checklist. The right documentation will help your lawyer to strengthen your case.
So, what documents do you need to prepare for your attorney if you have been in a motor crash? Today, we will discuss the most critical documents and why they matter. Read on.
Your Insurance Information
It's illegal for motorcycle riders to ride without insurance in most states. When meeting with your lawyer, carry documents that contain your insurance coverage. They will review your policy to know the type of insurance recovery you are entitled to.
Don't panic if you don't have a copy of the insurance policy. Your lawyer can obtain one from the insurance company with your approval.
A motorcycle accident attorney will also need evidence of premium payments. Insurance companies send statements or bills to notify you that premiums are due. Your attorney will want to verify that the policy is in force and has been paid.
Witness Information
Often, parties involved in an accident exchange telephone numbers and names. Suppose you don't have any motorcycle accident injury record statements from witnesses. Get their contact information and names before they leave.
At times, you may have forgotten or missed important details. Your lawyer will contact them to discuss details of what happened.
Police Report
Police are usually called immediately after a motorcycle crash. They are required to open a motorcycle accident case. The accident report includes photos and videos of various pedestrians or cars.
They also record what happened and any property or physical damages. Provide your lawyer with a copy of the accident report. Also, give them any other document drafted by the law enforcement officers.
They will use this information to understand your case better. If you don't have a copy of the police report, your lawyer can obtain one on your behalf.
Medical Records
Motorcycle accidents can result in spinal cord injuries or traumatic brain injuries. That's why you need to see a doctor immediately after leaving the scene of the accident.
It's essential to get checked even if you don't have any physical injuries or pain. They will evaluate you and provide medical care and treatment for any injuries. Doctors keep records of each visit.
Request a copy of the aftercare report with details discussed during the visits. Your lawyer will need these documents to prove the severity and the extent of your injury. The judge may ask for these records to confirm that their injury matches the date of the crash.
Medical Bills
Medical bills are of great importance, just like medical records. Your lawyer needs to clearly explain the amount of money you spend on medical care.
Keep all copies of the statements, including small increases that may seem minor. They will serve as evidence in such a case.
If you have undergone extensive treatment from different providers, assemble their contact details. You can get in touch with them if copies of the bills are missing. Insurance companies also need proof of medical bills to process motorcycle accident claims.
Tickets Related to the Crash
You may get a ticket for a specific charge related to the accident. If so, let your lawyer know. For instance, if you were charged with lane splitting your lawyer will ask for a ticket copy.
You may not be comfortable talking about the details that led to the ticket. But your attorney needs to be in the know. This information will help them build a strong case.
Lost Wage Records
If you sustained injuries from a motorcycle accident, it means you have to miss work. Taking time off work allows you to go for treatment and heal. If so, you need to get compensation for lost wages.
Include the number of hours you have missed in your motorcycle accident checklist. Present these records to your attorney.
Also, give them copies of your tax document or pay stubs. They'll use this as evidence of your pre-accident earnings.
Your lawyer will calculate the amount of money lost due to the accident. Lost wages records will also help your lawyer obtain compensation on your behalf.
Your Personal Recollections and Notes
You need to write down your version of the accident. Over time, you may not be able to remember everything that happened. Write down details of what happened and keep them.
Take photos and videos of the damage done to your motorcycle. Also, include pictures of the weather or other conditions that may have led to the accident.
If you've been injured, take photos of the injuries before and as you seek treatment. For example, if you broke your leg, include images of the broken leg. Take pictures of when it happened, when you got the cast on, and when it came off.
Provide all the photos, videos and notes to your attorney. If you are not able to take pictures, don't worry. Your lawyer will contact your insurance company and request copies if they have any.
Choose the Right Oakland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Contact an Oakland motorcycle accident lawyer after you've been in a motor crash. Choosing the best lawyer can be overwhelming there are many of them in the industry.
Compare the portfolios of multiple attorneys. Choose one with the right expertise to increase the chances of a positive outcome.
Here at Kerley Schaffer Law Firm, we know that some disputes can't be resolved without a fight. That doesn't mean we always go to trial.
Other lawyers know that when you try cases, we win. This makes obtaining favorable settlements much easier.
Contact us today for more information about our services.