After a motorcycle accident, you will likely be emotionally upset and physically injured, potentially severely. Now is not the time to make mistakes you won’t be able to correct later. Here are three critical ones to avoid.
Settling Too Soon and Without a Lawyer
Insurance company lawyers – even your own insurance company lawyers – do not work for you. Their job is getting the fastest and cheapest settlement possible for their clients, the insurance companies. Don’t agree to anything at the scene and don’t accept the first lowball settlement offer you receive. Consult an experienced motorcycle accident attorney before making any decisions or signing anything.
Failing to Preserve Evidence
Whether your case settles or eventually goes to court, you will need evidence to back up your claims. Make sure to get and keep copies of all accident reports. Get the contact information from the other parties to the accident and any third-party witnesses. Take pictures at the scene and retain any dashcam footage you might have.
Not Seeking Medical Attention
Sometimes we minimize our injuries because we just don’t want to be bothered with all of the hassles that comprise a modern emergency room visit. There are several reasons not to react this way. First, the extent and severity of your injuries may not be immediately visible to a layperson, and you may suffer severe consequences through not getting care. Secondly, and equally importantly, the insurance company will argue that you didn’t get medical attention because you weren’t all that severely injured. Make sure to seek medical care as quickly as possible for your sake and the sake of your case.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim?
Florida requires you to file a lawsuit within four years of a motor motorcycle accident. Sometimes the timeline can be shorter depending on the circumstances. Because people’s memories may fade, your documents and pictures may disappear, and so might your witnesses, it’s vital to speak with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney as soon as you can.
Will I Have to Pay to Find Out About My Case?
No. Stevenson Klotz Injury Lawyers will discuss and evaluate your accident with you at no cost and no obligation. In fact, their 100% satisfaction guarantee offers you the right to take your file and go, within the first thirty days, to another attorney, no fees or expenses, and no questions asked if you are unhappy with the way your case is handled.
Who Decides If My Case Should Be Filed?
Most attorneys handle motorcycle accident cases on what is called a contingency fee basis. This fee arrangement means that you only pay if the attorney makes a recovery for you. Because the attorneys only get paid if they win, they are the ones who get to decide whether to take a given case to court.
Call Us to Speak to a Florida Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today!
Eric Stevenson and Chris Klotz have many years of experience handling motorcycle accident cases. Call 850-706-4538 to speak with a Florida attorney about your accident today. Contact Stevenson Klotz Injury Lawyers for help with your motorcycle accident.