Have you recently been in a motorcycle crash?
If so, you’re not alone. There are thousands of motorcycle accidents per year in the U.S. After you’re in a crash, the steps you take next are essential. First, you’ll need to make sure you call the police and document the accident. You’ll also need to take photos and gather plenty of evidence of the crash site if you can physically.
The next most important step is contacting a motorcycle crash attorney. An attorney specializing in motorcycle crashes will know exactly how to help you after the accident and get you the money you need.
Even though your crash attorney is an expert on how to help you, you need to make sure you set them up for success by providing all the right documents.
To help you get started, check out this guide and this checklist of six documents you’ll need to be prepared to show your attorney after a motorcycle crash:
1. Your Motorcycle Insurance Policy
All motorcyclists should have an active insurance policy that meets at least the state minimums for coverage. Make sure you bring this card or proof of coverage to meet with your attorney. If you don’t have any insurance coverage, make sure your attorney knows that as well.
2. Evidence You’ve Been Paying Your Insurance
If you have motorcycle insurance, your attorney may also need to see proof that your coverage is active, and you’ve been paying your insurance premiums on time and in full. You should find this information on your bank statements, or you can contact your insurance company for receipts or other written proof.
3. Information From the Scene of the Accident
When you first get in an accident, you’ll likely exchange numbers and proof of insurance with other parties involved. Your attorney may ask for this information, so make sure you keep it handy.
4. Tickets From The Accident
If you received any tickets or charges at the accident scene, make sure you have those ready to show your attorney as well. It’s important that your attorney knows exactly what happened at the crash site and what charges, no matter how minimal or severe, you face.
5. Photographs From the Scene
Photographs from the crash scene are always helpful to give your attorney an idea of what happened. Police will take photos, but it is also helpful for you to take photos to prove what happened.
6. A Personal Statement
Your insurance company may ask you to write a personal statement about what happened at the accident site. If they ask you to do this, you are legally allowed a copy of what was submitted, and you should give this to your attorney.
Learn More About Finding a Motorcycle Crash Attorney
The days, weeks, and months after a motorcycle crash can be scary and exhausting. The last thing you might want to do is prepare for court, but sometimes that is necessary to prepare your defense or get you the money you’re entitled to if the accident was not your fault.
Make sure you check out the rest of our website for more helpful advice to get you through the process, including how to choose the best motorcycle crash attorney for you.
Amanda Byers is a graduate of Columbia, where she played volleyball and annoyed a lot of professors. Now as Zobuz’s entertainment and Lifestyle Editor, she enjoys writing about delicious BBQ, outrageous style trends and all things Buzz worthy.
