Kaufman & Stigger, PLLC helps people in Louisville when they’re hurt in motorcycle accidents. It’s a very confusing time, and it can be tough to know what you need to move forward with a claim. You don’t always need a police report to file a claim, but that doesn’t mean it won’t help you. To learn more about the process and how our motorcycle accident lawyers can help you, contact us today for a free consultation.
Do You Need a Police Report to File an Insurance Claim After a Motorcycle Accident?
Simply put, no. You don’t need a police report to file an insurance claim when you’re in a motorcycle accident in Louisville. The only thing you actually need to file an insurance claim is the policy information of the at-fault party.
But just because you don’t need a police report to file an insurance claim doesn’t mean having one isn’t helpful. Most of the time, these reports serve as official confirmation and record of the accident. More to the point, having clear and accurate information can really help your claim. Most police reports have:
- Date, time, and location of the accident
- Names and contact information of all parties involved
- Statements from witnesses who saw what happened
- Descriptions of vehicle damage and injuries
- A preliminary determination of fault based on the officer’s findings
While a police report can be extremely helpful in proving what happened, it can’t be used as evidence in court if your case turns into a lawsuit. In Kentucky, accident reports are considered hearsay, meaning they help establish liability for insurance claims but aren’t admissible in legal proceedings.
What Can You Use Besides a Police Report to Strengthen Your Claim?
Whether you decide you want to file an insurance claim out of court or a lawsuit, you’re going to need evidence to strengthen your claim. In a typical motorcycle accident, this is going to involve things like:
- Medical records and bills – Your injuries and their related medical records are going to link the accident directly to your damages, proving the extent of your losses.
- Pictures and videos of the scene – Take pictures of the accident scene, vehicle damage, road conditions, injuries, and traffic signals. Dashcam or surveillance footage can also be powerful visual evidence for an insurance company or jury.
- Witness statements – Witness testimony can help confirm what happened. If there are any witnesses, get their contact information so we can talk to them later.
- Expert testimony – Accident reconstruction experts or medical professionals can provide opinions on how the crash happened and how your injuries affect your life.
- Electronic data – Some motorcycles and vehicles have data recorders that track speed, braking, and other actions before the crash.
- Repair estimates – Proof of the repair costs (or total loss) of your motorcycle and gear can show the financial impact of your accident.
Even without a police report, you can still build a solid case with the right evidence. But it’s also important to take the right steps after the accident itself. This means:
- Calling 911 for an ambulance and police response.
- Getting insurance and contact information from others at the scene.
- Not admitting fault and being careful with what you say.
- Not repairing or replacing any damaged property.
Every motorcycle accident is different, and the evidence you have will play a big role in proving who was at fault and how much you can get in a settlement. But you might be wondering what else you need for a strong claim.
How Will Kaufman & Stigger Help You After a Motorcycle Accident in Louisville?
Louisville is a great city for riding your motorcycle, but it also comes with risks. If your accident was minor, you might not need legal help, but the reality is that most motorcycle accidents lead to serious injuries. So, trying to handle everything on your own can quickly become overwhelming. That’s where our team at Kaufman & Stigger, PLLC comes in. Here’s how we can help you through the legal process:
- Explaining your legal rights and what you can expect.
- Finding out who’s responsible and what damages you may be able to get.
- Collecting and reviewing evidence to make your case stronger.
- Handling all communication so you don’t accidentally say something that hurts your claim.
- Negotiating with insurance companies to get the best settlement possible.
- Taking your case to court if needed to fight for what you deserve.
Motorcycle accidents can be physically, emotionally, and financially draining. Our job is to handle the legal process so you can focus on healing. If you’ve been in a motorcycle accident in Louisville, the next step is figuring out how to move forward. Contact us today for a free consultation.
