What to Do If Injured in a Motorcycle Accident
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident that another driver caused, you can take important steps after the crash that will help to protect your right to compensation. At Philip DeBerard, Injury Attorney, we believe one of those steps is to consult with an experienced Florida motorcycle accident lawyer about your legal rights and options.
Attorney Philip DeBerard has more than three decades of experience representing people seriously injured in Florida motorcycle crashes and other accidents. He can go over the specific facts of your case and map out a path to compensation for your injuries and other losses.
To schedule a free consultation, call us today at (888) 649-6094 or fill out our online contact form. We serve clients throughout South Florida and the Treasure Coast, including residents of Stuart, Port St. Lucie, Okeechobee, Fort Pierce, Jupiter, Palm Beach and Vero Beach.
Steps to Take after a Florida Motorcycle Crash
Our Florida motorcycle accident attorneys suggest taking the following steps after a motorcycle crash:
1. Seek medical attention. If you are unable to call for an ambulance yourself, ask someone to call for you. If you are not treated at the scene of the crash, go to an emergency room as soon as possible. Even if it appears that you escaped the accident without injury, follow up by visiting a physician within a week of the accident. Signs of serious head and brain injuries, for instance, may take a few days to develop.
2. Get the other driver’s information. You should get the name, driver’s license and insurance information of the other driver. This information will be important as you seek legal action. You should also make a note of any statements the driver makes, including any admission of fault.
3. Call the police. When the police arrive, Florida law requires that you provide your driver’s license, registration, and proof of insurance to the investigating officer. It’s a misdemeanor to present proof of insurance that the driver knows is invalid. If the car driver previously told you that they didn’t see your motorcycle or says that the crash was their fault, let the investigating officer know. They will ask that driver to make a statement.
It’s important that you provide the police with all information about the fault of the other driver, even if you have to do so from the hospital. Don’t allow the at-fault driver to shift the blame to you if you’re unable to remain at the scene and speak for yourself. The police officer will fill out an accident report. You’ll want to obtain a copy of the report in the days after the accident and call the police to correct any errors or omissions in the report.
4. Take photos and get witness names. The more evidence and information you’re able to collect at the scene, the better. Have a camera or a cellphone handy. You can take pictures of your motorcycle, the other vehicle, and any signs of the accident, such as skid marks and debris. You’ll also want to get the names and contact information of eyewitnesses. If possible, write a brief note of what the witnesses saw and heard. This information can be especially helpful at a later stage.
5. Report your accident to your insurance company. You must promptly inform your insurance company about your motorcycle accident. If you’re unable to do so because of injuries, ask someone else to report it. You should report the basic facts of the accident.
6. Do not speak to the car driver’s insurance company. It’s common to be contacted by the car driver’s insurance company shortly after a car-motorcycle collision. Do not give the insurer any statements or discuss the accident with the insurer before you have discussed your case with an experience Florida motorcycle accident lawyer.
7. Consult an attorney. It’s important to seek the counsel of an attorney who is experienced at handling motorcycle accidents in Florida and advocating for injured motorcyclists. At Philip DeBerard, Injury Attorney, we always provide free initial consultations. We want to learn about your case and advise you of your legal rights and options as you move forward. We know how deal with insurance companies, and we know how to develop cases for trial. Our goal will be to make sure you obtain the maximum amount possible for your losses.
Contact Our Florida Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Today
If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a Florida motorcycle accident caused by another driver, it’s important to speak with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer to understand your legal rights. You may be entitled to seek compensation for your injuries.
Philip DeBerard focuses his legal practice exclusively on representing victims of serious accidents and injuries caused by the negligence of others, including motorcycle crashes. He has the highest AV preeminent rating from Martindale-Hubbell, the most recognized national legal directory. He takes pride in leading a team of hard-working attorneys, paralegals and staff who provide caring, one-on-one service to clients across South Florida and the Treasure Coast.
We serve clients throughout South Florida and have offices in Stuart, Port St. Lucie, Vero Beach, Okeechobee, Palm Beach Gardens and West Palm Beach.
Call us today at (888) 649-6094 or use our online contact form. We can evaluate your case free of charge and explain your options. We will not charge any attorney fee unless we secure compensation for you.
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