We fight for your rights every step of the way, but there are some things you can do after your motorcycle accident to help protect your health and your legal rights.
Get the police
Some people think an accident seems minor and don’t want to bother waiting for the police to arrive. Calling the police is in everyone’s best interests, however. Police can secure the scene and keep everyone safe while they sort things out. They will also fill out an accident report that provides important information when seeking compensation for your injuries.
See a doctor
Maybe you think you feel fine or you weren’t hurt very badly. Get examined anyway. You could have a head injury or internal injury that takes time to show symptoms. A doctor can also document the injuries you have. This documentation is proof for insurance companies that you were hurt.
Collect information
Ask other people involved in the crash for their contact information, if you can. Write down the make, model and license plate number of the car, but try to keep the conversation civil and don’t talk about who was to blame. Get information from any witnesses as well.
Take pictures
If you can, take pictures of the accident scene from different angles. Get pictures of the damage to your motorcycle and the other vehicle. Take pictures of any road signs, traffic signals, landmarks and unsafe road conditions. You should also document any visible injuries you have.
Notify your insurance company
Tell them you have been involved in a motorcycle accident and give them basic facts about what happened. You don’t have to answer questions or give a recorded statement. If you are contacted by the other driver’s insurance company, politely decline any requests to answer questions or give a statement. Explain that you would like to get legal advice first.
Call a motorcycle accident lawyer
It’s important to get legal advice as soon as possible. The longer you wait, the more likely it is that evidence will be lost or destroyed, and the memories of witnesses can fade. Learn your rights and take action right away.
Our legal team will investigate your motorcycle accident to find out what really happened. We gather evidence, including any video from traffic cameras or dash cams. We carefully review accident reports, medical records and other documentation. We identify and interview witnesses and if needed, consult accident reconstruction experts.
Our attorneys determine the total damages you have suffered as a result of the accident. These include all current and future medical expenses for treating your injuries. They include lost wages if you were unable to return to work. Other damages may include pain and suffering and emotional distress.
Then we demand the financial compensation you deserve. If the insurance company won’t agree to a settlement of your motorcycle accident claim, we can help you file a lawsuit and fight for you in court.
Put experience on your side
Our firm has been fighting for the injured in Jacksonville since 1974. We know how to build strong cases that get results. We’ve handled more than 12,000 cases and recovered more than $1.5 billion for clients. This includes a $5 million settlement in a fatal motorcycle crash and a $1,225,000 settlement for a client who suffered serious injuries in a motorcycle accident. We are ready to fight for you.
How long do you have to file a motorcycle accident lawsuit? It depends on the circumstances of the accident, and different deadlines can apply. No matter what, it’s important to get legal advice as soon as you can.
If you were hurt in a motorcycle accident, learn more about how we can help. Contact us to schedule a free case evaluation with one of our experienced motorcycle accident lawyers. We can help move your claim forward. There’s no cost and no obligation.
