Here is a checklist of what to do and not do when you are in a motorcycle crash in Utah.

Do:

1. Call your insurance agent immediately after an accident takes place,

2. Obtain a copy of the police report,

3. Take and keep detailed notes of all conversations with insurance company representatives, and get names, phone numbers, and job titles of people you speak with, including their supervisor's name,

4. Read and understand your policy. Know what kinds of accidents you are covered for and what you are not covered for,

5. Discover that you could have insurance coverage under another insurance policy as well. Many people have more than one policy that might cover a claim. In particular, look at homeowner policies and "umbrella" policies,

6. Take pictures of any damage to your vehicle, the accident scene, and your injuries,

7. Be honest and forthcoming with your insurer. Failing to be candid with your insurer might invalidate your policy or cause a denial of coverage,

8. Keep all receipts of meals, lodging, and purchases made in connection with time spent pursuing your claim or recovering from your injuries from the time of the covered event until final settlement with your insurance company,

9. If necessary, contact an experienced Colorado personal injury attorney. Your insurance company is primairly interested in their bottom line and will frequently contest your claim. Don't be a victim!

Do not:

1. Provide any recorded and/or written statements to your insurer until you are sure you understand your coverage. Remember you are not required to allow the insurance company to record your telephone conversation. If you have doubts, consult an attorney immediately,

2. Automatically accept the estimate or appraisal of your losses given to you by the insurer. Insurance companies will often try to get you to accept their estimator's or contractor's repair or replacement estimates, which might be lower than what you deserve. If you have doubts, contact an attorney immediately,

3. Sign any releases or waivers until you obtain legal advice. Don't accept a premature, inadequate settlement from your insurer. Consult an attorney before signing a release or waiver. In addition, remember to read the fine print on any payment from the insurance company,

4. Accept any check that says "final payment",

5. Disregard the time limits set by your insurance policy. Most policies require a signed proof of loss within a certain time limit. Be sure you comply with this requirement unless you obtain a written waiver from your insurance company. Many policies allow you only one year from the date of loss in which to bring a legal action if your claim has not been adjusted fairly. If months of gone by and your claim has not been settled yet to your satisfaction, consult an attorney immediately. A failure to do so could result in the loss of your right to sue,

6. Forget that your insurance company has a legal obligation to provide the coverage it promised to you. Be insistent about enforcing that obligation, and consult and attorney if necessary,

If you've been injured in a motorcycle accident you should be aggressive and vigilant in protecting your rights. Don't assume that the insurance companies are looking out for your interests, and furthermore, don't try to take on the insurance companies by yourself! Contact Utah Bike Law because we are experienced in motorcycle crash cases and will protect your rights and get you the fair compensation that you deserve!

Utah Bike Law is a law firm and its lawyers represent motorcycle riders and their families across Utah including the counties and cities of Beaver, Box Elder, Cache, Carbon, Daggett, Davis, Duchesne, Emery, Garfield, Grand, Iron, Juab, Kane, Millard, Morgan, Piute, Rich, Salt Lake, San Juan, Sanpete, Sevier, Summit, Tooele, Uintah, Utah, Wasatch, Washington, Wayne, Weber, American Fork, Beaver, Bountiful, Brigham City, Cedar City, Delta, Draper, Duchesne, Fillmore, Heber, Kamas, Kanab, Kaysville, Layton, Lehi, Logan, Moab, Murray, Nephi, Ogden, Orem, Park City, Price, Provo, Richfield, Riverton, Roy, Salt Lake City, Sandy, South Jordan, St. George, Tooele, Vernal, West Jordan, and West Valley City.

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