If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident in Florida, you may be feeling overwhelmed. It’s completely normal to have a range of emotions during this challenging time. You might feel confusion, anxiety, or worry about how to move forward and what steps to take next. At this point, you may be wondering about your legal rights and how you can maximize the compensation you deserve. The road to recovery can seem daunting, but rest assured, you do not have to go through it alone. Our team is here to help guide you through the entire process, ensuring that your case is handled with the care and attention it deserves.
Motorcycle accidents can result in serious injuries, significant medical bills, and a major disruption to your life. However, understanding what to do after an accident and making the right decisions from the start can have a significant impact on the outcome of your case. The following steps outline what you can do to help maximize your compensation and protect your rights throughout this journey.
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
The first step you should always take after a motorcycle accident is to seek medical attention, even if you feel fine or think you have only minor injuries. Adrenaline can mask pain in the immediate aftermath of an accident, so some injuries may not be immediately apparent. By seeing a doctor as soon as possible, you not only ensure that you receive the necessary treatment, but you also create a record of your injuries that can be crucial to your case later on.
In Florida, personal injury claims often rely on the documentation of injuries and medical treatment to prove the extent of damages. The more thorough and immediate the medical care, the more evidence there is to support your claim for compensation. Do not underestimate the severity of any symptoms, and if you experience any pain or discomfort later on, seek medical care immediately.
Michael Serrano
Founding Attorney
Candace “Cea” Hartley
Associate Attorney
Document Everything Related to the Accident
As soon as you are able, begin documenting every detail related to the accident. This includes taking photos of the scene, your motorcycle, any visible injuries, and damages to other vehicles involved in the accident. If you are unable to gather this information yourself due to your condition, ask someone you trust to assist you. These photos can serve as critical evidence when proving fault and determining the amount of compensation you are entitled to.
Additionally, if there were any witnesses to the accident, make sure you get their contact information. Witness testimony can be invaluable in establishing who was at fault and helping to strengthen your case. If the accident involved other vehicles, make sure you collect their insurance details as well. All of this information will support your claim and help establish the facts of the case.
Avoid Speaking to Insurance Adjusters Without Legal Representation
After a motorcycle accident, you will likely be contacted by insurance adjusters from the at-fault party’s insurance company. It is important to be cautious when speaking with insurance representatives, as their primary goal is often to minimize the amount of compensation they have to pay. They may try to get you to settle quickly or offer a lowball settlement, which may not adequately cover all your medical expenses and damages.
It is highly recommended that you consult with an attorney before speaking with any insurance adjusters. A skilled attorney will protect your rights and ensure that you are not taken advantage of by insurance companies. When you work with an attorney, they will handle all communication with the insurance company on your behalf, allowing you to focus on your recovery without worrying about dealing with the stress of negotiations.
Mike Serrano’s law office was everything I needed after a very traumatic accident. He was always super up front and honest with me. I never got the feeling he was trying to sell me on something or to do something that I wasn’t comfortable with. He listened to my concerns and when it tough moments came that I needed to stand my ground. He backed me and made me feel 100% secure. He got me exactly what I needed in a settlement and I would never consider using anyone else. His office staff is also phenomenal.”
- Mary
Mike Serrano was a great attorney for my case!! He was very flexible with phone calls/ Zoom meetings. His staff are always friendly, whether it be on the phone or emails. They keep you updated during your entire case! They don’t leave you silent for months. if you call, they always call back with updates! Highly recommend!"
- Kylie Collier Border
I’ve never had to deal with a lawyer before but Mike has set the bar HIGH. He was always available to communicate my concerns and explain each step of the way. I know no other lawyer would have been able to achieve the same results because he jumped on an opportunity that was a little out of the ordinary and it paid off. He really fought for my case and over delivered. I really hope I never have another accident but if I do I’m running to Mike for help."
- Sandy Carter
Understand the Role of Comparative Negligence in Florida
Florida is a comparative negligence state, which means that if you are partially at fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced based on the percentage of fault assigned to you. However, as long as you are not more than 50% at fault, you can still recover damages. Understanding how comparative negligence works in Florida is crucial to your case.
For example, if the other driver was speeding or ran a red light, they may be primarily at fault, but if you were not wearing a helmet or were otherwise negligent, your compensation could be reduced. A skilled attorney can help navigate these complexities, ensuring that you understand the degree of fault and how it impacts the compensation you are entitled to.
Keep Track of All Medical Records and Expenses
Throughout your recovery, it is essential to keep track of all medical records, bills, prescriptions, and receipts for expenses related to your injuries. These documents will serve as evidence when seeking compensation for your medical treatment. Additionally, if your injuries have caused you to miss work or experience a loss of income, make sure to document this as well.
In Florida, compensation can be sought for both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages include things like medical expenses, lost wages, and future medical care, while non-economic damages cover pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life. Properly documenting all of these factors is essential in ensuring that you receive the full compensation you deserve for your losses.
Related Videos
Choosing The Right Personal Injury Attorney
Personal Injury Settlement Timeline
Consult with an Attorney Experienced in Motorcycle Accident Cases
Perhaps the most important step you can take to maximize your compensation is to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney who has handled motorcycle accident cases. Florida law can be complex, and the process of pursuing a claim can be challenging without the right legal knowledge and experience.
An attorney who is well-versed in motorcycle accident cases will know how to handle the specific issues that arise in these cases, such as understanding the unique injuries that often result from motorcycle crashes. They can help you navigate the process of filing a claim, negotiating with insurance companies, and representing your interests in court if necessary.
Don’t Delay in Filing Your Claim
In Florida, the statute of limitations for personal injury claims, including motorcycle accidents, is typically four years from the date of the accident. While this may seem like plenty of time, it is always best to begin the process as soon as possible. The sooner you start working on your case, the more time you will have to gather evidence, build a strong case, and avoid any issues with deadlines.
Case Results
Starting early also allows your attorney to identify all potential sources of compensation, such as insurance policies, third-party liability, and even potential product defects if your motorcycle accident was caused by a mechanical failure. By taking swift action, you ensure that all opportunities for compensation are explored, and you give yourself the best chance for a successful outcome.
Consider All the Damages You May Be Entitled to Receive
It’s important to keep in mind that the compensation you may be entitled to can go beyond just the cost of your medical bills. Motorcycle accidents can lead to long-term consequences, including chronic pain, ongoing medical treatment, and a diminished quality of life. In addition to economic damages, you may also be entitled to compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, and other non-economic damages.
It’s essential to work with an attorney who can help you understand all of the potential damages you may be entitled to receive. This includes considering both current and future expenses, as well as the long-term effects of your injuries on your life and livelihood.
Let Us Help You Maximize Your Compensation
At Serrano Law, we understand how devastating a motorcycle accident can be and how overwhelming it can feel to navigate the aftermath. Our team is committed to helping you
maximize your compensation and achieve the best possible outcome in your case. We take the time to listen to your story, gather all necessary evidence, and fight for your rights every step of the way.
If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident in Florida and need help securing the compensation you deserve, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team. We are here to guide you through this difficult time and ensure that you have the support and representation you need to recover both physically and financially. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and start working towards a successful case result.
