You should contact a motorcycle accident attorney in Tennessee as soon as you are able to after the crash. The earlier a lawyer gets involved, the better your chances of preserving key evidence and ensuring you are fully compensated for your injuries. While there is no rule saying you have to hire an attorney on the same day as the accident, waiting too long can create problems that are difficult or even impossible to fix later on.
In the sections to follow, we’ll fill you in on why timing matters so much in Nashville motorcycle accident cases and what can happen if you wait.
Evidence Can Disappear Quickly
One of the most important reasons to contact an attorney early is to make sure critical evidence is preserved. Surveillance footage from nearby businesses may be overwritten within days, while skid marks and debris at the scene can be cleaned up. Meanwhile, eyewitnesses’ memories start to fade and their willingness to cooperate may decrease over time as well.
An attorney can take immediate steps to preserve this evidence, including sending preservation letters to any parties who may have relevant records. The sooner this process starts, the more evidence your legal team will have to work with.
The Insurance Companies Will Move Fast
The at-fault driver’s insurance company may contact you quickly once a motorcycle accident takes place and ask you for a recorded statement. They may also request access to your medical records and present you with an early settlement offer. All of these things can hurt your case if you are not careful.
Having an attorney involved before you speak with the insurance company protects you from making statements that could be used against you and from accepting an offer that does not reflect the true value of your claim. Your lawyer can handle all of these communications on your behalf so that you do not have to worry about saying the wrong thing.
Tennessee Has a Short Statute of Limitations
Tennessee’s statute of limitations for personal injury cases is generally just one year from the date of the accident. If you do not file a lawsuit before that deadline passes, you lose your right to pursue compensation entirely. While one year may seem like enough time, the investigation and legal preparation that go into a motorcycle accident case can take months.
Starting the process early gives your attorney the time they need to build your case thoroughly rather than rushing to meet a deadline at the last minute.
Contact a Tennessee Motorcycle Accident Attorney To Schedule a Free Consultation
Were you injured in a motorcycle accident in Tennessee? You may be entitled to compensation, but it’s best to act fast and get legal help from a qualified attorney to make sure your case gets off to the right start.
Call Woodard Injury Law today for a free consultation at (615) 314-4626. Our motorcycle accident lawyers have recovered millions of dollars for our clients and will bring the same level of dedication to your case from the beginning.