Common Mistakes to Avoid If You’ve Been Injured in a Florida Motorcycle Accident
Most motorcycle accidents in Florida are caused by the driver of the other vehicle. That means, if you’ve been injured on a motorcycle, you might very well be the victim of a negligent driver. Florida law allows you to file a claim and seek compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering, but receiving the award you deserve depends a great deal on what you do after your accident. There are several common mistakes you should avoid if you hope to receive just compensation.
Don’t Leave the Scene or Fail to Report the Accident to the Police
The first step toward collecting damages is proving the accident happened by showing an official police report. If you leave the scene without reporting the crash or make a deal for a cash settlement with the at-fault driver, you could lose your right to seek further compensation even if you suffer serious health problems later as a result of the accident.
Don’t Fail to Take Photos and Get Contact Information
If you are physically able to, move to a safe place, take photos of the accident scene and your damaged motorcycle, and get contact information from any witnesses at the scene. Pictures and eyewitness testimony could help your case significantly. Once you’ve taken photos of your bike, don’t be in a hurry to get it repaired. It might need to be inspected in its damaged condition during the course of the investigation.
Don’t Refuse or Delay Medical Attention
Don’t assume that you’re all right even if you feel no pain. Some injuries are not visible right away but could surface later. A doctor’s exam and X-rays can reveal injuries you might not know you have. Seeking medical attention right after the accident documents these injuries and helps to prove they resulted from your accident. Follow the orders of your doctor, so that you cannot be blamed for aggravating your own injuries by ignoring medical advice. Keep a daily journal of your treatment and pain and suffering, as well as receipts for prescriptions and physical therapy.
Don’t Admit Fault
Speak minimally to the police, sign only the documents they require, and read those documents first. Don’t talk to the other driver except to exchange insurance information. Refer any insurance adjusters to your lawyer. Finally, don’t post anything about the accident or your injuries on social media. Doing so could hurt your case.
Have You Been Injured In A Florida Motorcycle Accident?
If you’ve been hurt in a motorcycle accident you need to speak with an experienced Florida motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible. Please contact us online or call our Coral Springs office directly at 954.755.7803 to schedule your free consultation. We proudly serve Florida residents including all of Fort Lauderdale, Boca Raton, Miami-Dade County, Broward County, Palm Beach County and all points in between.
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