Motorcycle accidents can be devastating and have long-lasting consequences for the victim and their loved ones. If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident in Arizona, protecting your legal rights is imperative to seek fair compensation for your injuries. However, certain procedural issues could potentially hurt your Arizona motorcycle accident case if not handled properly.
At Feller & Wendt, our experienced team of personal injury attorneys is dedicated to helping motorcycle accident victims navigate the complex legal process and ensuring their cases is not jeopardized by any procedural missteps. That’s why we compiled a list of common procedural errors that could jeopardize your chances of receiving fair compensation. By being aware of these potential pitfalls and having the guidance of a skilled attorney, you can increase your chances of a successful outcome in your motorcycle accident case.
Inadequate Documentation of Injuries and Medical Treatment
To strengthen your case, you’ll need thorough documentation of your injuries and the medical treatment you receive. This means all visits to doctors, treatments you undergo, and medications prescribed must be documented carefully. Photos of your injuries can also be powerful evidence.
Without detailed evidence, proving the extent of your harm and linking it to the accident becomes much harder. Ensure you document everything from the start to avoid giving the defense an advantage due to gaps in your medical evidence. Insurance companies may use this lack of documentation to challenge the seriousness of your injuries, potentially reducing the compensation you receive.
Not Properly Serving the Defendant
One crucial step in your lawsuit is correctly notifying the defendant by using a neutral party to hand-deliver your complaint and court summons. This process, known as “service of process,” must be done right.
If you don’t manage to properly serve the defendant, the court might not even hear your case. Make sure you understand the requirements for service of process in Arizona, or better yet, have your attorney handle it to ensure it’s done correctly. This isn’t a step you want to overlook, as it forms the foundation of moving your lawsuit forward.
Failing to Meet the Statute of Limitations
In Arizona, the clock starts ticking the moment your motorcycle accident happens. The state has a set time limit–typically two years–within which you must file a lawsuit for any injuries you suffered. This is what’s known as the statute of limitations.
There are a few exceptions to this two-year rule, but they are rare. If you wait too long and miss this deadline without one of these exceptions applying to your case, you won’t be able to file your lawsuit at all. Don’t wait to get started on your case or assume you have more time than you do.
Overlooking the Importance of Legal Expertise
Understanding the big picture of your motorcycle accident case might seem straightforward, but the procedural side of things can often be a different story. These procedural rules aren’t always clear-cut and can cause issues when you least expect. What many don’t realize is that even a tiny mistake in following these complex rules can spell disaster for a claim that’s otherwise valid.
That’s where the role of legal expertise becomes critical. A seasoned personal injury lawyer, especially one familiar with Arizona laws, knows the ins and outs of these procedural hurdles. By having an expert on your side, you’re far less likely to fall into these hidden traps. Their guidance ensures your case moves smoothly through the legal system without falling victim to avoidable procedural errors.
Injured in a Motorcycle Accident? Contact Feller & Wendt Today
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident, don’t navigate the complexities of the legal process alone. Contact Feller & Wendt today to secure the expertise and guidance needed to ensure your case is handled correctly and efficiently. Our experienced team is dedicated to fighting for the compensation you deserve.
Call us at (480) 702-2277 or fill out our contact form to schedule a free consultation. Let our experienced attorneys take the burden off your shoulders so you can focus on your recovery while we focus on your rights.
