If you are hurt in a motorcycle accident that took place while riding in Minnesota, you might be entitled to compensation. However, it’s not uncommon for riders to take several actions that undermine their ability to obtain a favorable outcome in their personal injury cases. Those actions may include apologizing to others at the crash scene, accepting the first settlements that they are offered or failing to seek medical treatment in a timely manner.
Why you shouldn’t apologize at the crash scene
An apology may be spun as an admission of guilt by attorneys for the other parties involved in the crash. It’s important to note that you can’t truly know if you were liable for causing the accident until an investigation into the incident is complete.
Therefore, you have little to gain by talking to anyone other than your motorcycle accident attorney until your case has been resolved. If you do decide to talk to the police, your insurance company or anyone else, it’s generally in your best interest to have your attorney review a statement before it’s released.
Why you should seek medical treatment immediately after a crash
Seeking medical treatment after an accident makes it easier to prove that the wreck was the proximate cause of your injuries. Furthermore, a doctor’s note, medical test results or other records may be introduced into evidence during settlement talks.
The problem with accepting the first offer that you receive
Generally speaking, you won’t know the true extent of your injuries for several weeks after the crash. Therefore, taking the first offer that you get may result in accepting a deal that doesn’t truly meet your needs. At a minimum, you should allow your attorney to review an offer before deciding if you should accept it.
If you are hurt while riding your motorcycle, you may want to contact an attorney as quickly as possible. A legal adviser may be able to take multiple steps to maximize your chances of obtaining a favorable settlement in a timely manner.