
What should I do following a motorcycle accident in Middlesbrough?
5 Minute Read
Motorcyclists rank among the most vulnerable road users in Middlesbrough and the surrounding areas. Naturally, being in a motorcycle accident is stress-provoking and this is particularly true when the collision involves a larger vehicle like a bus or van.
Motorcyclists dread to think about being involved in an accident
However, by having a predetermined plan for what to do immediately after and in the subsequent weeks following an accident, a motorcyclist may alleviate some of their anxiety in the event of such an occurrence.
Here are several factors motorcyclists should take into account.
1. Immediately following the motorcycle accident
Following an accident, prioritise the safety of yourself and others. If possible, assess your surroundings and relocate to a safer area if necessary. Contact the police and ambulance services as needed. It’s common for bystanders to offer assistance, and their eyewitness accounts can be invaluable if you choose to make a claim later on.
2. Exchange details and take note of potential evidence
If you sustain injuries, Cleveland Police will arrive to document the accident and details of those involved. Your primary concern should be receiving immediate treatment at the scene or being transported to the hospital.
After a less severe accident, it’s important for all parties involved to document the details. By law, you are obligated to share your information with others involved, and they must reciprocate. Capture ample photographs of the accident site with your smartphone, ideally before removing any obstructions from the road.
It is advisable to consider acquiring a helmet camera or motorbike dashcam if you do not already have one.
3. The days, weeks and months following a motorbike accident
You must inform your insurance provider, regardless of fault. Prompt notification is vital, as many policies have strict timeframes for reporting. Failing to do so could invalidate your policy.
Make an appointment with your GP. Symptoms may not manifest until days after the accident.
Beware of third-party capture following a motorcycle accident
Avoid engaging with any representatives of other parties involved in the accident. It is not uncommon for insurance companies to reach out in an attempt to offer compensation before you have sought your own legal advice. Avoid engaging with any representatives of other parties involved in the accident.
This practice is referred to as third-party capture and it rarely has your best interest at heart.
If you’ve been injured and the accident was caused by another road user, you may be entitled to compensation. Seek independent legal advice promptly to safeguard your interests. A solicitor can assist in ensuring your rights are upheld.
To learn more about this questionable practice, read: Beware of third-party capture in England & Wales.
Motorcycle accident claims in Middlesbrough
Recovering from injuries after an accident can be overwhelming enough without the added stress of searching for a solicitor you trust. It is advisable to pre-select a solicitor you’d like to instruct and reach out to them promptly following an accident.
As specialists in handling motorcycle accidents, we boast one of Middlesbrough’s most active personal injury litigation departments.
Thousands of local road users have entrusted us with their claims. Save our contact number in your phone today, and should the worst happen, we’ll be readily available to provide guidance and support.
Reach us on: 01642 475252
The Askews Solicitors motorbike accident claims process
In most instances, we initiate your claim by sending a letter of claim to the insurance provider of the other party involved. Subsequently, we will gather your medical records and arrange for you to undergo further examination by a medical professional.
This process enables us to assess the extent of your injuries and begin calculating the compensation you may be entitled to.
The evidence that you and/or the police collected at the scene may also assist us at this stage.
You can seek motorbike accident compensation for various aspects, including:
- Pain, suffering & loss of amenity
- The value of your motorcycle or repair expenses
- Loss of earnings if you’re unable to work
- Recovery of insurance excess
- The value of damaged property such as your helmet and protective gear
In most cases where liability is accepted by the other party, your case can be settled without needing to go to court. We will negotiate diligently to secure the maximum fair compensation for you.
However, if the opposing party or their insurer contests your case, we will leverage our expertise and evidence to pursue compensation through the Courts.
Upon a successful claim, you will receive compensation for your pain and suffering in a timely manner.
No Win No Fee motorcycle accident claims option
At Askews, we can usually act for you on a ‘No Win No Fee’ basis, meaning there is no financial risk to you.
However, there are other funding options available and we will advise you on these before you commit to pursuing a claim.
Moving on following a motorbike accident
Seeking compensation after a motorbike accident is fundamentally about accessing justice. As your case reaches its resolution, you can start to leave the ordeal behind and focus on moving forward with your life.
Speak with a Middlesbrough or Redcar-based motorcycle accident claims solicitor
If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident in the past three years and it was the fault of another, you may be entitled to compensation. Contact Us to arrange a free initial appointment with an Askews expert who can assess and advise on your options.
Or, visit Motorcycle Accident Claims to learn more about our services.
This content is for informational purposes and is not intended as advice of any kind.