Florida leads the nation when it comes to motorcycle accident injuries. Due to their size, motorcycles are much harder to see than vehicles. Drivers in St. Petersburg should be extra alert for motorcycles on the road, especially on the highway. Unfortunately, when motorcycles and motor vehicles go head to head, it is the motorcyclist left with the most injuries and damage. Victims of motorcycle accidents are often entitled to compensation for the motorist’s negligence. Below are five dos and don’ts for how you should act after a motorcycle incident.
Dos and Don’ts After a Motorcycle Accident Injury
Don’t Delay Medical Treatment. Walking away from a motorcycle accident without injury is highly unlikely. Even if you feel fine, it is essential to get checked out by a medical professional in St. Petersburg. Road rash, broken bones, and even spinal cord injuries are common motorcycle accident injuries. Not seeking medical treatment in a timely fashion can be used against you in a personal injury claim.
Take Detailed Notes At The Scene. During high-pressure situations, such a vehicle accidents, emotions and cortisol levels are running high. High cortisol levels can interfere with a person’s ability to store memories, so it’s important to write down the details of the incident, immediately after an accident to ensure the facts are correct. The more time that passes, the easier it is to misremember facts. Written notes are a great way to ensure that the truth remains intact.
Do Gather Evidence. It is wise to take pictures of the damage of your bike, as well as the vehicle that hit you. You should also photograph the location of the accident itself (regardless of whether or not it was in St. Petersburg) including nearby road signs, traffic lights, and markings on the road. Your motorcycle accident attorney will use this evidence to build a strong case for your compensation.
Do File an Insurance Claim. Make sure to file a claim as soon as possible to get the coverage you need for whatever immediate costs pop up. Depending on the insurance company, doing this may come with varying levels of difficulty. Consult an attorney if you encounter challenges with your insurance coverage for your motorcycle accident injury.
What Costs Can I Recover After a Motorcycle Accident?
Motorcycle accidents fall under negligence cases. As a plaintiff, you may be able to recover any incurred costs and lost wages due to the accident. These include things like medical costs associated with the accident, lost earnings, emotional harm, and motorcycle repair expenses. A St. Petersburg attorney can help you explore your options as they pertain to your particular situation.
Contact K Law
A motorcycle accident injury, especially one caused by someone else’s negligence, should not leave you in financial despair. At K Law, we have extensive expertise in personal injury law. Lisa Kennedy, our founder, worked as a Licensed Adjuster for the largest insurance company in the country. We have the experience and knowledge to get you the most favorable outcome possible. Fill out our online contact form or call our St. Petersburg office today at (813) 866-8600.
