Winter Haven Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Representing Motorcyclists Injured in an Accident Caused by Someone Else
Even when you are being cautious and riding your motorcycle safely on the road, the lack of attention or recklessness of other drivers may cause an accident, leaving you seriously injured. So what should you do to recover compensation for your damaged motorbike and your injuries? Our motorcycle accident attorneys explain the steps you should take to recover compensation after an accident.
What Should I Do After Being in a Motorcycle Accident in Florida?
First, seek emergency medical help if you or anyone involved sustained significant injuries. Then report the accident to local law enforcement immediately. If possible, gather evidence from the scene of the accident that may be later used to build a case in your favor. Pictures, videos, a copy of the police report, and contact information of any witnesses are examples of information you may want to collect.
In addition, exchange insurance information with the other party involved and notify your insurance carrier of the accident. It is also important to be examined by a doctor shortly after your crash, even if you do not feel hurt. Many injuries do not show symptoms until days or weeks later, and being under the care of a medical professional is important to demonstrate that your symptoms are directly connected to the injury and the accident.
Who Will Be Financially Liable for My Motorcycle Accident?
Determining fault in a motorcycle accident can be a complex process. Information from the scene of the accident, police reports, traffic camera video, and a series of other types of evidence can be used to pinpoint the main causes of the accident. Because Florida follows the pure comparative negligence rule, you may still be able to receive compensation even if you were partially responsible for the accident.
For example, if the driver of an SUV was distracted on his phone and failed to stop at a red light and thus caused the accident, that driver’s insurance company will need to pay for all your injuries and damages. But if you were speeding or not following traffic laws when the accident happened and it is determined that you were 20% responsible for the crash, you will receive your settlement discounted by 20%.
What Should I Do if I Am Being Accused of Causing the Accident?
It is quite common for insurance companies to try to claim you were at fault for the accident, or to exaggerate your percentage of responsibility for it. Their job is to find ways to settle your claim for as little money as possible, and they may resort to some unfair tactics to preserve their bottom line. This is why it’s so important to have as much information and evidence from the scene of the accident as possible.
It is also strongly recommended to hire a Florida motorcycle accident attorney who knows how to negotiate with insurance companies and build a strong case in your favor. Your injury attorney can advise you at every step of the way and handle insurance calls on your behalf while making sure you are treated fairly and given proper compensation.
Is It Worth Hiring a Florida Motorcycle Attorney for My Case?
Your motorcycle accident can be successful if you hire a highly-skilled attorney to represent you. An attorney can handle all the paperwork and red tape on your behalf, and he or she can conduct an investigation of the accident and bring in outside expert witnesses to strengthen your case when necessary. Even if your case ends up settling outside of court, having an attorney on your team may make the difference between getting a small settlement and receiving maximum compensation.
At Jiles Law, P.A., we have successfully represented countless clients injured in motorcycle accidents in Winter Haven, FL, and surrounding areas. We know what it takes to fight on your behalf and can help you with every aspect of your case. Call us at 863-356-0941 to learn your options.