Essential Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident in Florida to Protect Your Claim
A motorcycle accident can turn your life upside-down in an instant. One moment you're enjoying the open Florida roads, and the next, you're faced with devastating injuries, medical bills, and the overwhelming task of figuring out what to do next. If you’ve been in an accident, you’re likely feeling a mix of pain, stress, and confusion about how to move forward.
This emotional turbulence is natural, but it’s important to take swift, deliberate action to protect your rights and your potential claim. Every decision you make in the aftermath of the accident can impact your ability to recover compensation for your injuries and losses.
At Reese Legal, we understand that life after a motorcycle accident isn’t easy. With over 27 years of experience in personal injury law, we help Orlando residents and visitors hold negligent parties accountable. Licensed to practice in all Florida courts and the United States District Court for the Middle District of Florida, we’ve helped countless clients in areas like Windermere, Winterpark, Doctor Phillips, and Bay Hill.
Whether you’re a local or a tourist, our firm is strategically located just one mile from Universal Studios, making us accessible when you need legal support most. We are committed to guiding you through this difficult time and helping you understand the steps you need to take, so you can focus on recovery while we handle the complex details of your case.
Step 1: Seek Medical Attention Immediately
Your health and safety should be your number one priority. Even if you feel fine immediately after the accident, some injuries, such as concussions or internal bleeding, may not show symptoms right away. Seeking medical care promptly helps improve your well-being and creates an official record of your injuries. This documentation can be a key piece of evidence when filing a claim.
Under Florida Statutes Section 627.736, personal injury protection (PIP) coverage requires that you seek medical attention within 14 days of the accident to access certain insurance benefits. Delaying medical treatment may jeopardize your ability to recover compensation, even if your injuries were a direct result of the accident.
Step 2: Call 911 and Report the Accident
Florida law requires that you report any accident, including motorcycle accidents, resulting in injury or significant property damage. When you call 911, law enforcement will come to the scene and file an official police report. This document will contain vital details, such as the date, time, and location, as well as the officers' assessments of the accident, which may help establish liability. Be sure to get the name and badge number of the responding officer, and ask how to obtain a copy of the report.
Step 3: Gather Evidence at the Scene
If you’re physically able, collect evidence at the accident scene. Take photos of your motorcycle, other vehicles involved, road conditions, and any visible injuries. If there were witnesses, ask for their contact information, as their testimony could support your case later. Be careful not to say anything that could be misconstrued as admitting fault. Stick to the facts and avoid speculating about how the accident happened.
Step 4: Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurance provider as soon as possible. While Florida is a no-fault state, meaning your insurance typically covers your initial medical expenses regardless of fault, you may still pursue additional compensation from the at-fault party for serious injuries and damages. However, keep conversations with your insurance company brief and factual. Avoid giving recorded statements or signing waivers without first consulting an attorney.
Step 5: Maintain Detailed Records
Maintaining thorough records can strengthen your claim. Keep copies of all your medical bills, doctor’s notes, repair estimates, and correspondence with insurance companies. Additionally, track any lost wages if your injuries prevent you from returning to work. This documentation can help calculate the total damages you’re entitled to recover.
Be Cautious About Insurance Adjusters
After an accident, the at-fault party’s insurance company may contact you and attempt to settle quickly. While it might be tempting to accept an offer, these initial settlements rarely account for the full extent of your losses. Insurance adjusters aim to minimize payouts, and accepting their offer could leave you responsible for future medical expenses or other costs. Before you agree to any settlement, consult with an attorney who can help evaluate whether the offer is fair.
Understand Florida’s Comparative Negligence Law
Florida follows a pure comparative negligence standard (Florida Statutes Section 768.81), which means your compensation can be reduced by your percentage of fault. For example, if it’s determined that you were 20% at fault for the accident, your recovery would be reduced by that amount. Understanding this principle can help you build a strong claim. An experienced attorney can help you explore the best options for presenting your case to minimize any assignment of fault to you.
Contact Reese Legal for Support Today
At Reese Legal, we’re passionate about helping victims of motorcycle accidents in Orlando and the surrounding areas. We believe in fighting for the compensation you need to cover medical expenses, lost wages, and the pain and suffering you’ve endured because of someone else’s negligence.
Every motorcycle accident is unique, and while this guide provides an overview of the steps you should take, your case deserves a personalized approach. With over two decades of experience handling motorcycle accidents in Florida, we know how to build a case that protects your rights and maximizes your compensation.
We fight for injured clients while providing compassionate support every step of the way. If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident, reach out to Reese Legal today to schedule a free consultation. Call us or visit our office in Orlando and take the first step toward protecting your future.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Reading this article does not create an attorney-client relationship. For advice specific to your situation, please consult with Reese Legal directly.