Got Coverage?

 Consumer Complaint, Insurance  Comments Off on Got Coverage?
Feb 232005
 

Have you reviewed your motorcycle insurance policy lately?

Do you even know what it covers?

Well, there is an old saying…

    “There are two kinds of bikers;
    “Them that’s been down and Them that’s going down!”

If you don’t know what your insurance policy covers – Don’t wait until an accident to find out!  My recent accident left me with more than just a swollen spine and a bruised kidney!

I like to speak from personal experience, so bare with me for a moment, while I fill you in on a few minor details… Click here to read the accident details

Now, if an accident isn’t bad enough – – imagine finding out after the accident that your injuries, safety gear and motorcycle may not be fully covered.  After all, insurance companies don’t make money paying claims. That’s right – -that’s why they assign your claim to a Claims Adjuster.  Before your motorcycle can be repaired you will have to prove it or loose it to get paid.  If you don’t have proof you had it on your motorcycle or was wearing it and have a detailed receipt, you probably won’t get paid if you are insured by Foremost.

If you are not careful – – you might not get what you paid for!

Here’s what I learn . . .

At the Accident Scene:

  • First – Get medical attention
  • Get names and phone numbers of witnesses.
  • If you are too hurt to do it yourself – call/ask someone
  • (family, friend or witness to collect the information for you)
  • Names and numbers of Individuals present (Police, CHP, Fire Department, Tow Company, Witnesses, Bystanders
  • Ask someone to collect your personal belongings from your motorcycle and the scene (damaged or not – don’t leave it for the authorities to collect)
  • If possible, have someone take pictures of you, your motorcycle and clothing at the accident scene

After the Accident Scene:

  • Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible (same day if possible, while the facts are fresh)
  • Get a copy of the CHP/Police Report (Accident Report)
  • Make sure the Accident Report reflects both your statement and that of any witnesses
  • Call your witnesses and get a statement from them if you find conflict on the accident report (everyone is going to see things from a different perspective)

Estimate/Repair of Damage to Motorcycle:

  • Take photos of your motorcycle at the tow company before it’s moved
  • Have your motorcycle towed to a reputable certified motorcycle repair shop or dealership
  • Review the damage with the dealership and make absolutely sure all the damage is itemized and listed on the estimate
  • When it’s all said and done – – shop around before you buy motorcycle insurance, find yourself a good Insurance Broker/Agent, or get a yourself a really good attorney.