What Information Should I Give to a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer?
To build the strongest motorcycle injury claim possible in New Jersey, you should give your Bergen County motorcycle accident lawyer all the information you have about the crash, your injuries, your bills and losses, insurance policy details, and fault. Your lawyer is working for you, not against you. A comprehensive personal injury claim starts with promptly sharing everything relevant to the case with your attorney.
Your Version of Events
When you hire a motorcycle accident attorney in New Jersey, or even sit down for a free consultation with one, you should feel free to confide in them anything you wish about the accident. What you say to a lawyer is protected through the attorney-client privilege. You can feel confident that the attorney wants to seek justice for your losses, not blame you for the crash or downplay your injuries.
Start by telling your side of the story. Give them a detailed account of your version of the motorcycle crash, including what direction you were traveling, how fast you were going, where the other car came from, and the road and weather conditions at the time. Describe all of your injuries, including emotional damages you suffered.
If you think you were breaking a traffic law at the time of your accident or believe you may have contributed to the crash, don’t hide this from your attorney. Your lawyer needs to know all of the information to understand fault, build a strong claim and prepare for potential defenses presented by the insurance company.
Crash Scene Evidence
Ideally, you remained at the scene of your motorcycle accident to collect certain facts, evidence and information before leaving. If so, present these details to your motorcycle accident attorney so he or she can have a complete picture of the circumstances surrounding your case.
Crash scene evidence may include:
- Pictures and videos
- Road debris or markings
- Dashcam or GoPro footage of the accident
- The positioning of your motorcycle and other vehicles involved
- The other driver’s name and contact information
- Witness names, information and statements
- A copy of your police report
If you choose to hire the attorney, he or she can conduct further investigations to gather additional information. Crash reconstruction experts may be hired, for instance, to re-create the motorcycle accident.
Medical Records
Bring any and all injury documentation you have to your meeting with a motorcycle accident lawyer. This includes medical records, x-rays, test results, diagnostic reports, doctor’s notes, treatment plans, photographs and hospital bills.
Your lawyer will most likely have in-depth questions about your injuries, medical treatments, health status and prognosis. This can help the attorney determine the potential value of your claim and whether it is worthwhile for you to hire a lawyer.
Proof of Losses
A motorcycle accident in New Jersey can cause significant injuries, property damage and personal losses. Bring proof of any crash-related losses you suffered to your legal consultation, such as financial records, employment documents and proof of lost income, a pain journal, estimates for motorcycle repairs, and receipts for out-of-pocket expenses. Documentation of your losses can help your lawyer understand what the crash actually cost you.
If you’re ready to schedule your free initial consultation with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer in New Jersey, gather together your evidence and contact The Law Offices of Jeffrey S. Hasson, P.C.