Even though we’re entering the winter months in the Pacific Northwest, many motorcyclists continue to travel our roadways. While most motorcycles operate well in wet weather conditions, accidents still occur. Unfortunately, motorcyclists are much more vulnerable to severe injuries, as they lack the additional protections that cars and enclosed vehicles provide. Motorcycle accident injuries can be devastating and even life-altering, requiring a lengthy recovery period, serious medical interventions, and causing ongoing health issues. If you have suffered a motorcycle accident injury in the Portland or Vancouver area, it’s natural to wonder how you will be able to afford the costly medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses associated with the accident. First, try to recognize that you do not have to navigate this challenging time on your own. Enlisting the guidance of a trusted and compassionate personal injury attorney is the best way to ensure you maximize your settlement offer and receive the compensation you need to support your recovery. Below are some of the most frequently asked questions about motorcycle injuries and the claims process to help you understand your options for navigating these issues.
What Steps Should I Take at the Scene of a Motorcycle Accident?
The aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be chaotic and confusing. First, assess yourself and others present at the scene for any injuries. If you or anyone else requires immediate medical attention, you should call for an ambulance. Crashes that occur at high speeds can cause significant injuries, so prioritize your health and seek emergency medical care if it is warranted. Even if you do not believe you need immediate medical attention, visit your doctor within the next day or two for an assessment. The medical professional can identify any harder-to-detect injuries, such as concussions or internal bleeding. You should also report the accident to local law enforcement. The responding officer will compile a police report that includes essential information about the scene and circumstances of the accident, such as the names and insurance information of the involved parties, witness statements, road conditions, and other relevant details. These documents will help you prepare a detailed claim once you are ready to do so.
How Do I Pursue a Motorcycle Accident Claim in Oregon?
Although Oregon does not require motorcycle accident victims to work with a personal injury attorney to pursue a claim, doing so is highly recommended. As you focus on your physical recovery, it’s helpful to have a seasoned legal professional by your side to help you navigate the claims filing process. Your attorney can assess the specifics of your situation and help you determine the approximate worth of your claim. Motorcycle injuries often lead to long-term injuries and expensive therapies and ongoing treatments, so it’s important to include anticipated costs in your calculations. You may file a claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company, and your attorney can negotiate a fair and favorable settlement on your behalf. However, insurance companies often try to pay out as little as possible to protect their bottom lines, so you and your attorney may need to explore additional options (such as filing a civil lawsuit against the at-fault party) to ensure that you recover the compensation you deserve.
What Types of Damages Can I Recover?
Motorcycle accident injuries can wreak havoc on your life. In addition to the painful injuries and medical expenses, you will likely need physical therapy, medication, or rehabilitation to support your physical recovery. These interventions can be costly, so keep track of these bills and use them to build a clear and compelling motorcycle accident claim with your attorney. If your injuries have prevented you from attending work, or medical professionals have projected that your injuries may impede your earning capacity in the short or long term, you may pursue compensation to help cover this financial hardship. Those who suffer mental or emotional complications from the accident, such as insomnia, anxiety, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), or depression, may also seek compensation for the costs associated with these conditions. Work with your attorney to ensure you arrive at a comprehensive and accurate estimate of the damages you are pursuing to assist you with these considerable and unanticipated costs.
How Can a Portland Personal Injury Lawyer Help Me?
Those recovering from motorcycle accident injuries are often overwhelmed and anxious about the future. The last thing they want to do is engage in stressful negotiations with insurance adjusters who may attempt to undermine or lowball their claims. However, with the support of an experienced and compassionate attorney, you can trust that your best interests will remain protected at every step of the process. Not only will your lawyer handle the technical and procedural elements of filing an accident claim, but they can answer your questions, address your concerns, and provide the much-needed reassurance and peace of mind you crave during this tumultuous time. Reach out to a skilled and caring Portland and Vancouver personal injury attorney today to get started.
If you need help recovering compensation following a motorcycle accident injury in Portland or Vancouver, call Henderson Taylor Law Firm today at (360) 737-1478 to speak with a trusted and caring personal injury lawyer.
