Tacoma experiences frequent rain, wet roads, and fog. In fact, the city averages 40 inches of rain annually, and 10/12 days out of every month usually have some form of precipitation occurring.
All of these are factors that make visibility and traction major challenges for motorcyclists. Slippery roads increase the likelihood of accidents, and when a crash happens, the consequences can be severe.
According to national statistics, while motorcycles make up only 3% of registered vehicles, they account for 14% of all traffic-related fatalities. Tacoma motorcycle accident lawyers typically step up to help victims of such accidents seek justice and get maximum compensation from those responsible for the accidents.
While legal help is pivotal to a victim’s recovery journey, the first and most important step after an accident is seeking immediate medical attention.
Why Prompt Medical Attention is Vital
Here are some of the reasons why every victim of a motorcycle accident must get prompt medical attention before anything else:
Detecting Internal Injuries Before Symptoms Appear
Many injuries from motorcycle crashes are internal, meaning they are not visible to the naked eye. Internal bleeding, organ damage, or concussions may not show immediate symptoms but can worsen over time.
Seeking medical care right away allows doctors to perform necessary tests, such as X-rays or MRIs, to detect hidden injuries before they become critical.
Reducing the Risk of Long-Term Disabilities
Some injuries, if left untreated, can result in permanent disabilities. Spinal injuries, for example, can lead to chronic pain, paralysis, or mobility issues if not addressed immediately. Early medical intervention gives patients the best chance at a full recovery and prevents long-term suffering.
Medical Documentation for Legal and Insurance Claims
If a motorcyclist in Tacoma wants to file an insurance claim or pursue legal action after an accident, medical documentation is crucial. Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts, and if there is a delay in seeking medical care, they may argue that the injuries were not severe or were caused by something other than the accident.
By visiting a doctor immediately, victims create a paper trail that links their injuries directly to the crash, strengthening their case.
Ensuring Proper Compensation for Damages
Medical expenses after a motorcycle accident can add up quickly. Emergency room visits, surgeries, physical therapy, and ongoing treatments can be financially overwhelming.
If an injured motorcyclist waits too long to seek medical care, they may struggle to include all necessary expenses in their insurance claim. Immediate medical attention helps document all injuries and ensures that the full scope of medical costs is accounted for when seeking compensation.
Preserving Evidence for Legal Cases
Personal injury claims rely heavily on evidence. If a victim does not see a doctor right away, their injuries may heal before they are properly documented. This can weaken their case when dealing with insurance companies or in court.
Motorcycle accidents can be caused by distracted drivers, poor road conditions, or even inclement weather, so, having medical records that clearly show the impact of the crash can be the secret weapon to getting fair compensation.
