Motorcycles are considerably less crashworthy than cars, trucks, and SUVs. Because they lack a crumple zone, their riders are incredibly vulnerable in collisions, making serious injuries all but inevitable.
If you were struck by a drunk, drowsy, or distracted driver while riding your motorcycle, it’s only natural to want justice. The damages are probably adding up fast, after all, and you shouldn’t have to worry about covering them.
Thankfully, if you can put together a compelling claim, you can seek compensation for the associated losses. Wondering where to begin? Here are some of the most important pieces of evidence you’ll likely need to gather for your claim to have a chance of yielding a payout:
1. Records from the Scene
If you were able to document the scene in any way before leaving the area, store the records in a safe place until you can give them to your legal team. You might have photographs of the wreckage, for example, or helmet camera footage of the crash. Other evidence from the scene that could contribute to your claim includes statements from eyewitnesses, official reports, and black box data.
2. Testimony from Relevant Experts
Depending on the circumstances, there are a number of experts who may be able to strengthen your claim. Accident reconstructionists can scrutinize photos of the scene, for example, to deduce what happened in the seconds leading up to the crash. Engineers may also be able to testify on your behalf, especially if a defective part was to blame for the collision.
Finally, medical specialists can speak on the severity of your injuries and the kind of lasting impact they’ll likely have on your life in the years to come. Such statements will prove valuable when it comes time to convince the insurance adjuster of the extent of the damages.
3. Personal Injury Journal Entries
New York allows for the recovery of non-economic damages like pain and suffering, mental anguish, and emotional distress. Claimants must be able to present compelling evidence that they actually incurred such damages, however, in order to be compensated for them.
Since these losses are not accompanied by any tangible documentation, it wise to start writing in a personal injury journal on a daily basis. Detailed entries about how your condition is hurting your quality of life will come in handy when the time comes to negotiate for compensation for your non-economic damages.
Speak with a New York Motorcycle Accident Attorney
At Leitner Varughese, we know all too well the physical, emotional, and financial toll that unanticipated injuries can take on the whole family. If you were seriously hurt in a motorcycle accident through no fault of your own, we’ll help you take the steps needed to hold the liable parties accountable.
Our tenacious team counsels clients across New York City, Long Island, and throughout the rest of the state. To schedule a free initial consultation with a motorcycle accident lawyer in New York, call 855-585-2969 or submit our Contact Form.
