Motorcycle riders are especially vulnerable on the road. If you were hit by a negligent driver while riding a motorcycle, a Haines City personal injury lawyer can assist with your claim and help you seek damages.
The team at Brooks Law Group has over 100 years of combined experience. If you or someone you love was involved in a motorcycle crash, a motorcycle accident lawyer in Haines City can help you pursue a fair settlement.
Why Hire a Haines City Motorcycle Accident Lawyer?
Insurance companies often push back against motorcycle injury claims. A Haines City motorcycle accident lawyer can step in and:
- Investigate the crash: An attorney can gather police reports, photographs, traffic-camera footage, witness statements, medical records, and other evidence to prove what caused the crash and who is responsible.
- Calculate your losses: An attorney can calculate your economic and non-economic damages and calculate your claim’s value.
- Handle insurance companies: An attorney can handle communications with insurers and attempt to negotiate a fair settlement.
- Provide representation: If settlement talks fail, an attorney can prepare your case for litigation and advocate for you in court.
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(800) 529-3030
What Types of Damages Can You Pursue?
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident that wasn’t your fault, you may be able to recover compensation for the financial and personal losses caused by the crash.
Depending on the specifics of your case, available damages may include:
- Medical expenses: You can seek damages for emergency treatment, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and other necessary medical care.
- Future medical costs: You can pursue compensation for anticipated medical treatment, ongoing rehabilitation, assistive devices, and other future healthcare needs related to the accident.
- Lost wages: You can seek damages for income you lost because your injuries prevented you from working during your recovery.
- Reduced earning capacity: You can seek additional compensation if your injuries force you to change careers, compromise your ability to work, or limit your future income.
- Property damage: You can recoup the cost of repairing or replacing your motorcycle and any other personal property damaged in the crash.
- Pain and suffering: You can seek compensation for the physical pain and discomfort caused by your injuries.
- Disfigurement and scarring: You can recover damages for permanent scars, burns, disfigurement, or other lasting physical changes caused by the crash.
- Punitive damages: If you can prove that the other party acted with gross negligence or malice, you may be entitled to additional compensation.
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(800) 529-3030
What Is the Deadline for Motorcycle Accident Claims in Florida?
Florida Statute § 95.11 establishes a two-year deadline for most personal injury lawsuits related to motorcycle accidents. If you don’t file within two years of the date of the crash, you will most likely lose the ability to seek damages.
Different deadlines may apply in certain situations, such as if the accident is fatal, a minor is injured, or your injuries don’t appear until well after the crash.
If litigation becomes necessary, a motorcycle accident attorney in Haines City can help make sure you file your motorcycle accident lawsuit on time.
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Who Can Be Held Liable for a Motorcycle Accident?
Several different parties can be held legally responsible for a motorcycle accident. Potentially liable parties include:
- The at–fault driver: A motorist who speeds, drives while distracted, fails to yield, runs a red light, follows too closely, or otherwise drives negligently may be responsible for your damages.
- A vehicle owner: If someone negligently allows another person to use their vehicle, the vehicle owner may potentially share responsibility for an accident.
- An employer: A company may be held responsible when an employee causes a crash while performing job-related duties.
- A vehicle or motorcycle manufacturer: A manufacturer may potentially be liable if a defective vehicle or motorcycle component contributes to an accident.
- A repair or maintenance company: A mechanic or repair business can be held responsible if negligent repairs or maintenance contribute to a crash.
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How Long Does It Take to Get a Settlement from a Motorcycle Accident?
Every motorcycle accident case is different. Some claims are resolved within a few months, while others can take a year or longer. Some of the factors that will dictate the duration of your case include the severity of your injuries, the insurance company’s willingness to negotiate, and whether a lawsuit becomes necessary.
Our lawyers can help keep your case on track without undermining your interests.
What Causes Motorcycle Accidents in Haines City?
While riders can make mistakes, most motorcycle accidents are caused by other motorists who fail to notice motorcycles or violate traffic laws.
Common causes of these accidents include:
- Distracted driving
- Speeding
- Following too closely
- Unsafe lane changes
- Driving under the influence
- Aggressive driving
- Improper turns
- Opening a vehicle door into a motorcycle’s path
- Failing to check blind spots
- Poor road conditions
- Defective motorcycle components
Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident in Haines City
Everything you do after an accident can affect the strength of your motorcycle accident claim.
It’s important to:
- Notify the police: Report the crash and request emergency medical assistance if anyone is injured.
- Document the accident scene: If you can safely do so, take photographs or videos of the vehicles, your motorcycle, the road conditions, and your injuries.
- Trade information: Request the other driver’s name, contact information, driver’s license information, license plate number, and insurance details.
- Speak to witnesses: Ask witnesses for their names and contact information.
- Seek medical attention: Visit a doctor as soon as possible, even if you do not think you are seriously injured.
- Avoid discussing fault: Do not apologize for the accident or speculate about who caused it. Even seemingly harmless statements could later be used to dispute your claim.
- Notify your insurance company: Report the collision as required by your policy, but stick to the facts when talking to adjusters.
- Avoid posting about the accident: Insurance companies may review social media accounts for information they can use to dispute the severity of your injuries or your version of events.
- Speak with an attorney: A motorcycle injury lawyer can review the circumstances of the crash and break down your legal options.
Get Help from a Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Haines City
A motorcycle accident can lead to serious financial hardship. If you or someone you love was injured in a motorcycle crash, a Haines City motorcycle accident attorney from Brooks Law Group can assist with your claim, negotiate with insurers, and fight for the compensation you are entitled to.
Book a free case review to discuss next steps.
Call or text (800) 529-3030 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form