When meeting with a motorcycle accident lawyer in Chicago you should provide as much detailed information as possible about the crash. This includes the police report, medical records, insurance documents, photos and videos from the scene, witness contact information, and more. The more documentation your attorney has, the easier it will be to determine liability and build a case for maximum compensation under state law.
Essential Documents To Bring to Your Attorney
Your lawyer needs accurate and organized documentation to properly evaluate your claim. Some of the most important materials include:
- Police report
- Medical records and bills
- Insurance information
- Photos and videos
- Witness details
- Proof of income
All of these things can help your attorney demonstrate negligence by the at-fault party as well as help them calculate the full value of your economic and non-economic damages.
The Role of Evidence in Illinois Motorcycle Accident Cases
Illinois follows a fault-based system for motor vehicle accidents, which means you can take legal action directly against the responsible party and/or their insurance company. In most cases, your attorney must show that the other driver acted carelessly and that their actions directly led to your injuries. Clear, detailed evidence makes it easier to meet this legal standard and counter any defenses raised by the opposing side.
The state also applies a modified comparative negligence statute to these cases, which means your compensation can be reduced if you are found partially at fault. If you are more than 50% responsible, you cannot recover any damages whatsoever. As a result, having strong documentation also allows your lawyer to challenge any unfair attempts to shift blame onto you.
What Else Should I Keep in Mind Before Meeting With My Lawyer?
Before your initial consultation, gather all of the relevant paperwork and evidence in one place. It may also be helpful to create a brief timeline of the crash, including when and where it happened and how the collision unfolded.
If you don’t have every document yet, don’t worry. Your lawyer can help you obtain any missing records, such as the police report and additional medical documentation. What matters most is that you act quickly so your lawyer can preserve evidence and begin investigating the case while the details are still fresh.
By providing complete and accurate information from the start, you give your Illinois motorcycle accident lawyer the best chance to recover the full compensation you need and deserve.
Schedule a Free Initial Consultation With an Experienced Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident in Illinois, you may be entitled to compensation from the responsible party. Reach out to a personal injury lawyer in Chicago from Meyers & Flowers today for a free consultation to learn about your best course of action.
You can get in touch by calling (630) 232-6333 or by contacting us online. We’ve won billions of dollars for our clients and work on contingency, meaning you only pay attorney’s fees if we successfully handle your case.