Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

If you were riding a motorcycle when you became the victim of a drunk driving accident, you have likely suffered injuries, property damage, and medical expenses as a consequence of the crash. If the driver has Progressive Insurance (or any other kind of coverage) and you want compensation from their insurance provider, there are certain steps you must go through before the company will agree to reimburse you.

What Happens Immediately After an Accident?

Progressive handles drunk driving accident claims essentially the same way other auto insurance companies do. After Progressive is made aware of the accident, a claims adjuster will contact you for a statement. As an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer – including those who practice at Pioletti Pioletti & Nichols – can confirm, you’re going to need to be very careful what sort of information you offer them if you choose to speak with them on your own behalf.

While you may answer basic questions about the accident such as when and where it occurred and in which direction you were traveling, you should refrain from saying anything else. You may be tempted to talk about your injuries or how you think the accident occurred, but it is in your best interests not to, as they may use such information against you should you attempt to pursue compensation beyond what the company offers you. If you are being asked to answer questions beyond objective basics, it is generally best to have an attorney speak on your behalf to better ensure the strength of your claim. 

How Do I Ask for Compensation From an Insurance Company?

You can begin the process of receiving compensation by submitting a personal injury claim to Progressive (or whatever other insurance carrier governs the policy held by the drunk driver who hit you). This letter should detail all injuries, damages, and expenses you’ve incurred as a result of the accident. It should cite medical bills, lost income, psychological problems, damages to your bike, and any future expenses, such as ongoing medical costs. Be as specific as possible. At the end of the letter, you’ll want to write a precise dollar amount that you want to receive from them. Make sure your request is reasonable.

Before you file your claim, have as much information as possible ready if they ask further questions. You should know the exact date and time of the accident, where it took place, contact information for all parties involved, as well as the make, model, year, and license plate numbers of all vehicles involved.

If Progressive responds that they will not compensate you for the dollar amount you specified, you may need to proceed further in the legal process.

An attorney can help you with any of these steps, and if you want to ensure you earn the compensation you expect, it might be a good idea to seek the services of an attorney. If you’re a victim of a drunk driving accident, contact a lawyer who will help you to access all compensation to which you may be entitled.