In a lot of motorcycle accident cases, drivers give opposing accounts of what happened. This can make it hard to determine the at-fault party. Thankfully, witness statements can help resolve this possible deadlock. Those who witnessed the crash can provide information that can shed light on what exactly took place. An Augusta motorcycle lawyer can reach out to witnesses and obtain statements from them as they try to build a strong legal claim for victims. If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident due to the negligence of another party, you should recognize how such statements can help your case.
Why Witness Statements are Important in Motorcycle Accident Cases
Depending on the circumstances and facts of the accident, several witnesses may have been present when it happened. Witnesses can be other motorists on the street, passengers in the vehicles involved in the crash, pedestrians, and first responders. If you have been involved in this accident, you want to look for at least one of these witnesses to boost your case. These people, who are not related to you in any way, can offer valuable testimonies when a lawsuit ensues.
In addition, witnesses may have seen the whole accident. For instance, a person may have seen the vehicle that ran a red light, the speeding driver, or the driver who attempted to make an unsafe and unlaw turn.
Securing Effective Witness Statements
After a motorcycle accident, you must identify any possible witnesses at the crash scene if you can. You must prioritize your safety and the safety of everyone involved first. However, if you can move around and identify anybody who witnessed what might have taken place, try to get their name and contact details.
But remember that courts won’t admit the majority of hearsay statements. Thus, you can’t tell jurors that a witness told you another driver caused the accident. This witness should testify in court and that they are dependable. Being dependable means the witness will tell the same story even months after the crash.
What Witnesses Can Do
Those who witnessed the accident you were involved in can help your case by:
- Proving the circumstances of the accident. A witness can provide first-hand accounts of the way the crash took place. Their statements or testimonies can confirm the at-fault party’s actions, give details on the weather and road conditions, and corroborate your accounts of what happened.
- Fill information gaps. Because of the trauma and chaos associated with a motorcycle crash, you may forget important details. A witness can fill such gaps by offering objective observations of the sequence of the accident, details you or the other party may have overlooked, and a picture of the events that led up to the crash.
- Add credibility to the case. An unbiased witness account can strengthen your case by offering an objective perspective, countering the opposing party’s false claims, and corroborating your stories.
- Speed up the settlement process. Viable witness testimonies can compel insurers to make fair settlement offers, minimize the risk of an extended legal battle, and help resolve your case fast.
Why Seek Legal Representation
Navigating your case can be challenging, particularly when it comes to gathering and presenting witness statements. A skilled attorney can help identify and speak with credible witnesses, collect and compile evidence, and build a solid case to ensure you secure maximum compensation.
Witnesses play an important role in your case, offering vital testimonies that can increase your chances of securing a favorable outcome. After sustaining an injury in a motorcycle accident, hire an attorney who can help you reach out to witnesses. A good attorney knows the kind of witnesses needed for your particular case.