Even if you follow all traffic safety laws while driving a motorcycle, accidents can still happen due to the negligence of other drivers. Motorcycle collisions can result in damage to your motorbike, possessions you may have had on you at the time of the accident, and bodily harm. Depending on how severe your injuries are, you might consider hiring a Sarasota motorcycle accident lawyer to recover compensation.
When you are involved in a motorcycle crash, there are several immediate steps you should take to protect your rights and follow the proper protocol for a potential future injury claim. This could make it easier for a seasoned personal injury attorney to assist you with a motorcycle accident lawsuit.
Motorcycle crashes in Sarasota can be stressful and scary, and you may need to get in touch with a lawyer afterward. At the scene of an accident, following the steps below can help you stay calm and gather the necessary information.
Florida Statutes § 316.027 states that any driver involved in a crash that results in injury to another person is required to immediately stop their vehicle and remain at the scene of the crash until they have fulfilled their duty to give all information needed (including their name, address, phone number, and driver’s license) as well as rendering any aid necessary.
Motorists should move their vehicles to safety when possible. Getting the affected vehicles out of the way of other traffic is key to keeping everyone safe. If a motorcyclist has been injured, the other motorist has a duty to stay and render aid, including making arrangements to get the injured party to a medical facility, according to Florida Statutes § 316.062.
When adrenaline is flowing after an accident involving a motorcycle, it can be easy to miss signs of injury, and even minor accidents can result in parties being seriously hurt. If someone is experiencing pain or has visible injuries, work with them and emergency personnel to seek medical attention. Call 911 as soon as possible to report the accident, ask for an ambulance, and request police presence, as police reports are necessary to facilitate insurance claims.
In addition, be sure to document the incident thoroughly. Take pictures, jot down notes, and exchange information with the other motorist.
Once you leave the scene of an accident, you will want to call your insurance company to give your agent all relevant information. Finally, you should consider getting in touch with a lawyer who handles motorcycle accident lawsuits.
Depending on the specifics of a motorcycle accident lawsuit brought by a skilled Sarasota injury attorney, you might receive compensation for your:
Florida operates under no-fault insurance, which means that drivers are legally required to carry personal injury protection (PIP) coverage in order to cover expenses after an accident. However, no-fault insurance does not apply to motorcyclists, meaning they are not required to carry PIP, and they may not realize that their traditional vehicular insurance does not cover motorcycle accidents in this state. This can make recovering damages difficult for the injured motorcyclist.
To establish negligence on the part of another driver, you should consult with a trusted personal injury attorney who can help gather evidence for claims and bring a lawsuit if necessary. If you attempt to deal with the insurance company of the other vehicle operator yourself, your chances of recovering compensation can be lower, and your claim may be denied entirely.
Understanding all your options related to insurance, possible damages, and establishing negligence on the part of the other driver is best handled by an experienced Sarasota motorcycle accident lawyer. If you are ready to pursue your lawsuit, reach out to the Law Office of Joshua H. Rosen today.
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