What to Do Immediately After a Motorcycle Accident in Florida: A Legal Checklist
What to Do Immediately After a Motorcycle Accident in Florida: A Legal Checklist
Motorcycle accidents can be traumatic, especially on Florida’s busy roads. If you’re involved in one, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. But taking the right steps immediately after the crash can protect both your health and your legal rights. At Personal Injury Law Partners LLC, we assist clients throughout Miami-Dade County with injury claims, and we’ve outlined a checklist to guide you through the crucial moments following a motorcycle accident.
Step 1: Prioritize Safety and Medical Attention
Move to a safe location if possible. Call 911 immediately to report the accident and request medical help. Even if you feel fine, let a paramedic evaluate you—some injuries don’t show symptoms right away.
Step 2: Contact Law Enforcement
Under Florida law, you are required to report an accident if it results in injury or property damage over $500. Wait for law enforcement to arrive and file an official report. This documentation will be vital for any future legal claims.
Step 3: Collect Evidence at the Scene
If you’re physically able, gather as much information as possible:
- Photos of the vehicles, your motorcycle, road conditions, and injuries
- Contact information of the other driver(s)
- Contact information of witnesses
- Insurance and vehicle registration details
Step 4: Avoid Admitting Fault
Be careful what you say at the scene. Avoid statements like “I’m sorry” or “It was my fault,” as these could be used against you later—even if you were just being polite.
Step 5: Seek Medical Care and Follow Through
After the initial evaluation, follow up with your doctor or a specialist. Keep all medical records, prescriptions, and receipts. These will help support your
injury claim.
Step 6: Notify Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurer but stick to the facts. Don’t speculate or give a recorded statement without speaking to an attorney first.
Step 7: Speak with a Personal Injury Attorney
An experienced personal injury attorney can help you understand your rights, gather evidence, and negotiate with insurance companies. Florida has a four-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims, but the sooner you act, the better.
Step 8: Document Everything
Start a folder or digital file with:
- The police report
- Photos and videos from the scene
- Medical records and bills
- Insurance correspondence
- Notes on how the injury is affecting your daily life
At Personal Injury Law Partners LLC, we work with motorcycle accident victims across Miami-Dade County to pursue fair compensation. Don’t try to handle the aftermath alone—get legal guidance tailored to your situation.