Imagine this: You’re in a serious motorcycle crash. Your injuries are severe, but you think you can tough it out. You decide to wait and see how things go. Months pass, and your medical bills are piling up. You’re missing work, and the pain isn’t going away. Now you’re ready to file a claim, but you’ve already missed crucial deadlines with the insurance company. Even worse, key evidence from the crash scene is long gone.
This scenario is all too common, and it’s why we at New Mexico Biker Lawyer always advise riders to reach out to us as soon as possible after a crash. Even if you’re not sure you want to pursue a claim, talking to a motorcycle lawyer early can help protect your rights and options.
As riders ourselves, we’ve seen firsthand how motorcycle crashes can turn lives upside down. We know the unique challenges you’re facing, and we’re here to help you understand the critical timeline for claiming an injury after a motorcycle crash in New Mexico.
The Clock is Ticking: New Mexico’s Statute of Limitations
In New Mexico, you generally have three years from the date of your motorcycle crash to file a personal injury lawsuit. This time limit is called the “statute of limitations.” It’s like a countdown clock that starts ticking the moment your crash happens. Three years might sound like a long time, but trust us – it can fly by when you’re dealing with injuries, medical treatments, and trying to get your life back on track. Miss this deadline, and you could lose your right to seek compensation for your injuries.
Why You Shouldn’t Wait to Start Your Claim
While you have up to three years to file a lawsuit, waiting that long is rarely a good idea. Evidence disappears over time – skid marks fade, witnesses’ memories blur, and crucial proof can vanish. The more time passes, the harder it becomes to prove your injuries were directly caused by the motorcycle crash. Insurance companies become more skeptical the longer you wait, questioning why you didn’t come forward sooner. Perhaps most importantly, starting your claim early means you could get help with medical bills and lost wages sooner rather than later.
What About Insurance Claims?
While you have three years to file a lawsuit, insurance claims often have much shorter deadlines. Many insurance policies require you to report a crash “promptly” or within a matter of days or weeks. Waiting too long could give the insurance company a reason to deny your claim. This is another reason why it’s crucial to act quickly after a motorcycle crash. If you’re not sure the insurance company rules, please feel free to give us a call to discuss your situation and we’ll let you know what to expect.
What to Do Right After a Motorcycle Crash
To keep your options open and strengthen any future claim, there are several steps you should take immediately after a crash. First and foremost, get medical attention right away, even if you feel okay – some injuries aren’t obvious immediately. Report the crash to the police, as an official police report can be crucial evidence. Document everything you can – take photos of the crash scene, your injuries, and any property damage. Collect contact information from any witnesses and the other drivers involved. Avoid giving recorded statements to the other driver’s insurance company without legal advice. And perhaps most importantly, call New Mexico Biker Lawyer at 505-505-2453. We’re riders too, and we know how to protect your rights.
Why Choose New Mexico Biker Lawyer?
As motorcycle riders ourselves, we get it. We know the freedom of the open road, and we know how quickly that freedom can be shattered in a crash. Our team doesn’t just practice law – we live and breathe the biker lifestyle. This unique perspective allows us to fight for you with a level of understanding and passion that other firms simply can’t match. When you work with New Mexico Biker Lawyer, you’re not just getting legal representation. You’re getting advocates who will handle all communication with insurance companies, investigate your crash thoroughly, calculate the full extent of your damages (including future medical needs and lost earning potential), and fight tirelessly to get you the compensation you deserve.
Don’t Wait – Protect Your Rights Today
The road to recovery after a motorcycle crash can be long and challenging. Don’t make it harder by waiting to seek help. The sooner you reach out, the more we can do to protect your rights and build a strong case for you. At New Mexico Biker Lawyer, we offer free consultations to all injured riders. There’s no obligation, and you don’t pay us unless we win your case.
Don’t let time slip away – call us at 505-505-2453 to schedule your free consultation today. Remember, after a motorcycle crash, time is not on your side. But New Mexico Biker Lawyer is. Let’s get you back on the road to recovery – and justice – together.