Motorcycle accidents can be overwhelming and scary. Whether you’re dealing with injuries, medical bills, or insurance companies, it can be hard to know what to do next. At our firm, we understand the stress and confusion that can follow such an incident. If you’ve recently been involved in a motorcycle accident in Tampa, it’s normal to feel lost or uncertain about what steps to take. Our goal is to guide you through this difficult time and help you achieve a successful outcome in your case. You don’t have to go through it alone.
There are certain mistakes that can make your situation more difficult. These mistakes can lead to problems with insurance claims, medical treatment, or even your ability to secure the compensation you deserve. In this blog, we’ll walk you through four key mistakes to avoid after a motorcycle accident in Tampa. By understanding these errors, you can make informed decisions that may improve your chances of a successful case outcome.
Failing to Seek Immediate Medical Attention
One of the most critical mistakes after a motorcycle accident is not getting immediate medical attention. Whether you feel okay or not, it’s important to see a doctor as soon as possible. Many motorcycle accidents can cause injuries that aren’t immediately visible. For example, internal injuries or concussions might not show up right away, but they could lead to serious long-term health problems if left untreated.
Even if you think your injuries are minor, it’s still a good idea to get checked out by a medical professional. Not only does this ensure that you get the proper care, but it also helps build a medical record that can be crucial for your case. Insurance companies and lawyers often rely on medical records to determine the extent of your injuries and the compensation you may be entitled to. Delaying medical treatment or choosing not to go to the hospital could hurt your case later.
Founding Attorney Attorney Attorney
Michael Serrano
Candace “Cea” Hartley
Molli Gard, ESQ.
Neglecting to Gather Evidence at the Scene
After a motorcycle accident, it’s easy to be in shock or to feel overwhelmed by the situation. However, one of the most important things you can do at the scene is to gather evidence. This can include taking pictures of the accident scene, any damage to your bike, and injuries you’ve sustained. You should also collect information from witnesses who saw the accident occur.
Witness statements, photographs, and even video footage from nearby surveillance cameras can all play a key role in supporting your case. Without this evidence, it can be difficult to prove exactly what happened, especially if there’s a dispute over liability. Many people mistakenly assume that the police report will be enough, but often it’s not. The more evidence you can collect, the stronger your case will be.
If you’re unable to gather evidence at the scene due to your injuries, don’t worry. Your lawyer can help obtain this evidence later, but acting quickly can make a big difference.
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
Admitting Fault or Making Incriminating Statements
In the aftermath of a motorcycle accident, emotions can run high. You may feel guilty or frustrated about the accident, but it’s important to avoid admitting fault to anyone, including the police, insurance companies, or even the other party involved. Making an admission of fault or downplaying your injuries could hurt your case later.
The other driver’s insurance company may try to take advantage of your emotions and get you to make statements that could be used against you. Even simple phrases like “I’m sorry” or “I didn’t see you” could be used to shift the blame onto you, even if the accident wasn’t your fault. Remember that your words are powerful and can have a lasting impact on your case.
It’s important to remain calm and avoid talking too much about the accident until you’ve had the chance to speak with a lawyer. Your lawyer can help you navigate these conversations and ensure that you don’t say anything that could hurt your chances of getting the compensation you deserve.
Handling Insurance Claims on Your Own
Insurance companies can be tricky to deal with, especially after an accident. Many people make the mistake of trying to handle their insurance claims on their own. They may feel pressure to settle quickly or accept the first offer the insurance company gives them. While this may seem like a quick solution, it can end up costing you in the long run.
Choosing The Right Personal Injury Attorney Personal Injury Settlement TimelineRelated Videos
Insurance companies are not always on your side. They may try to minimize your claim or offer you less than what you truly deserve. By negotiating with the insurance company on your own, you risk accepting a settlement that doesn’t cover your medical bills, lost wages, or pain and suffering.
Instead, it’s always a good idea to consult with a lawyer before accepting any settlement offer. An experienced lawyer can help you understand the full extent of your damages and ensure that the insurance company offers a fair settlement. In some cases, a lawyer may even help you take legal action against the insurance company if they refuse to offer a fair settlement.
Why Choosing the Right Legal Help Is Critical
After a motorcycle accident in Tampa, choosing the right legal help is essential to your success. Many of the mistakes discussed above can be avoided by working with an experienced lawyer who understands the complexities of motorcycle accident cases. At our firm, we are committed to helping you navigate the legal process and secure the compensation you deserve.
Case Results
The road to recovery after a motorcycle accident is often challenging, but with the right support, you can overcome it. We are empathetic towards your situation and understand the concerns you may have. Our firm will work with you every step of the way, ensuring that your case is handled with the care and attention it deserves.
If you’ve recently been involved in a motorcycle accident in Tampa, don’t try to handle everything on your own. Get the legal help you need to avoid mistakes and increase your chances of a successful case result. Reach out to us today for a free consultation, and let us help you move forward with confidence.
At our firm, we’re here for you during this difficult time. Let Serrano Law fight for your rights so that you can focus on your recovery.