Experienced Legal Help for Motorcycle Accident Victims in Defiance, Ohio

Situated on the Ohio-Indiana border, Defiance County is accessible via US-6, US-24, and US-127, along with several state routes including OH-15, OH-18, OH-66, and OH-424. These routes all intersect at Clinton Street and River Drive, just north of Downtown Defiance. The increased traffic along these roadways can lead to an increase in traffic accidents, and unfortunately motorcycles are often caught in the mix.

Motorcycle on the ground after an accident in Defiance Ohio

Motorcycle accidents can be catastrophic. After a motorcycle accident, most victims are facing not only injuries, but mounting medical bills and lost wages that can burden them with financial stress. Insurance companies know the stress that these victims are under and will often try to offer a quick settlement that is far lower than what is needed for a full recovery. Having an experienced motorcycle lawyer in Defiance, Ohio can help you recover from an accident while ensuring you are not further victimized with a low-ball settlement offer.

First Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident

Seeking medical attention is your priority after a motorcycle accident. As motorcycle accidents can result in very severe injuries, taking care of those injuries needs to come before anything else. Some accident victims may have an initial adrenaline surge after the accident that leads them to believe they aren’t badly hurt, but receiving immediate medical attention will not only help make sure all injuries are taken care of, but will also help you with your accident claim, as delaying care may give the responsible party the impression that your injuries are not severe.

While you are receiving medical attention, another proactive step to take is to have someone assist with documenting the scene and the damages to your motorcycle. The first responder who is compiling the police report will do this as well, but it can be very helpful to have eye witness accounts too. Finally, don’t delay in contacting a motorcycle accident lawyer in Defiance, Ohio. The earlier you bring an attorney into the process, the quicker you may be able to get the compensation you need to move forward.

The Aftermath of a Motorcycle Accident

Person on a stretcher after a motorcycle accident in Defiance OhioKnowing what not to do after a motorcycle accident is just as important as knowing what steps to take to protect yourself. First, don’t apologize or admit anything in the initial aftermath of an accident. It is human nature to apologize, even if the accident wasn’t your fault, but this can be very harmful after a motorcycle accident. Anything you say that can be mistaken for accepting fault might be used against you later when determining your motorcycle accident settlement.

If you are asked to make a statement, stress that you need to get medical attention for your injuries first. As soon as your injuries are stabilized, contact an experienced motorcycle accident attorney. You should not attempt to speak with anyone about your accident without having the advice of a skilled legal professional first. Insurance companies are there to protect their own interests, and they know how to manipulate you. They understand you are in a vulnerable state, and are often successful at getting victims to agree to a settlement that is not enough to cover your current and future damages. A motorcycle accident lawyer will know how to gather evidence and negotiate on your behalf.

What Damages Can I Claim After the Accident?

Motorcycle accidents are often far more serious than passenger car accidents with more severe and even life-changing injuries. Damages add up fast and can cause extreme financial stress on top of an already difficult recovery, but as the victim of a motorcycle accident, you are entitled to compensation for these damages. Some of the damages you can claim after a motorcycle accident in Defiance, Ohio include:

1. Property Damage

This includes damage to your motorcycle as well as any other physical property you had with you that can be considered damaged or destroyed.

2. Medical Expenses

This includes both the initial medical expenses, hospitalization, and treatment, as well as any ongoing medical expenses, such as physical therapy, follow-up care, medication, and anything else deemed necessary and related to your recovery after the accident.

3. Current and Future Loss of Earnings

Make sure to document any missed work as a result of your recovery, as well as any future loss of earning potential. Your attorney can help you with the calculation of future damages to consider.

4. Pain and Suffering and Reduced Quality of Life

While pain and suffering can be difficult to quantify, your Defiance, Ohio motorcycle accident attorney can help determine fair compensation based on your injuries. This may include damages for changes to your quality of life as well.

Hire a Defiance, Ohio Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Motorcycle accidents can be complex. Not only can the damages be substantial, but determining fault can be complex. Insurance companies have an obligation to compensate victims for damages, but insurance companies are looking out for their best interests, not yours. Once you accept a settlement agreement with the insurance company, you cannot go back if you find that your expenses exceed the settlement amount. When you hire an attorney, not only will the attorney be able to gather all the documentation and evidence needed to determine a fair settlement, but they will be able to negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf. A skilled attorney knows the tactics insurance companies use and how to best refute them.

Finding an Experienced Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

There are many options for motorcycle accident lawyers in Defiance, Ohio, and finding the right one can be overwhelming when you are recovering from a motorcycle accident. Start by looking for one with a strong reputation in the local area. An attorney who has worked with many motorcycle accident claims and found success for their clients will know how to proceed in your case as well.

Make sure that the attorney you choose offers a free consultation and is upfront about the cost and fees. Most motorcycle accident lawyers operate on contingency and will take their fee as a percentage of your overall settlement, but this should all be outlined clearly at the beginning. Arthur Law Firm offers a Fair & Square Fee Guarantee, which ensures that you will never pay more in attorney fees than you recover in your settlement.

If you have been the victim in a motorcycle accident that wasn’t your fault, don’t try to handle the aftermath yourself. Let a skilled and experienced local motorcycle accident attorney in Defiance, Ohio fight for you while you focus on recovering from your injuries. We know what you’re up against. It’s why we are dedicated to fighting for motorcycle accident victims. You’re entitled to compensation, and we can help you reach a fair settlement. Contact Arthur Law Firm right away at (419) 782-9881 for a free consultation to discuss your legal options.