This is a guest blog post from our colleagues at the law firm of Cohen & Cohen
Motorcycle road trips can offer you the adventure of a lifetime, but what happens when you are injured by another driver through no fault of your own? Medical bills, emergency transport costs and the fear and anxiety you may feel from being away from home during the incident can be overwhelming. If you plan to file a lawsuit, there are a few tips to keep in mind that may help the process run more smoothly.
1. Hire a Lawyer in That State
Motorcycle laws can vary depending on the state where the accident took place. For example, in places such as Illinois and New Hampshire, there are no helmet requirements for motorcycle riders. A few states do not require that you carry insurance on your motorcycle, such as in Montana and Florida, so hiring an attorney familiar with these state laws may be useful to your case. If you have an attorney back home as well, you may want to put him or her in contact with the one you speak to ensure they have the same information.
2. Avoid Discussing the Accident
While you will probably speak to the police on the scene, it is wise to be discreet about the details of your accident otherwise. Refrain from answering questions that may frame you as the guilty party and if law enforcement wants to question you further, you can ask that your lawyer be present to assist you. You can let your family know that you cannot discuss too many details while your lawsuit is being prepared.
3. Ask About No-Fault Coverage
Depending on which state your accident occurred in, you may be subject to no-fault insurance laws. Many states require drivers to carry this coverage, which will pay up to $10,000 in damages, no matter who was at fault. The policy owner is covered by this personal insurance protection, but if you are injured in a state where drivers do not carry PIP, your own policy can still protect you.
4. Track Medical Reports
If you are able to return home after the accident, it is a good idea to track and obtain copies of medical reports from local hospitals before you depart. Once you arrive home, it may be more difficult to receive copies. As the lawyers at Cohen & Cohen can explain, a complete report of your medical bills can help your attorney put a value on your lawsuit and advise you about what types of damages you can claim.
Being involved in an out-of-state motorcycle crash can turn your dream road trip into a nightmare, but you do not have to face it alone. Contact an attorney today for further assistance and information.