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Motorcycle Accident Overview

Comprehensive Support from a Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Being involved in a motorcycle accident is even more dangerous than being involved in a car accident. This is because motorcyclists do not have the benefit of being protected by seat belts, airbags, or the steel frame of the vehicle. Without these safety features, motorcyclists often suffer severe injuries when they are involved in accidents. If you are an injured motorcyclist who was hit by a negligent driver, you may be entitled to compensation. But first, you should seek legal representation from a motorcycle accident lawyer in Clearwater at Carlson Meissner & Hayslett. Let us guide you through the process of filing a motorcycle accident claim and fight for the compensation you deserve. Call 727-234-8119 now to schedule a free consultation with our team.

Attorneys at Carlson Meissner Law Firm on Personal Injury

Attorney Jennifer A. Burns

What Are Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents?

Negligent drivers are responsible for the majority of motorcycle accidents in the U.S.

These accidents may occur as a result of:

  • Distracted driving
  • Drunk driving
  • Drowsy driving
  • Reckless driving
  • Speeding
  • Visibility issues
  • Failing to check blind spots
  • Misjudging the distance or speed of a motorcycle
  • Tailgating

If you were involved in an accident caused by a negligent driver in Clearwater, you have the right to take legal action against the driver to recover compensation for your injuries. This is true even if you were partly to blame for the accident—you can still obtain compensation as long as another party was also at fault.

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Injuries Often Sustained in Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents often result in serious injuries due to the lack of physical protection riders have compared to occupants of passenger vehicles. Even low-speed collisions can cause significant harm, with injuries that may require extensive medical treatment and long-term recovery.

Injuries often sustained in motorcycle accidents include:

  • Traumatic brain injuries and concussions
  • Spinal cord injuries and back trauma
  • Broken bones and complex fractures
  • Road rash and severe skin abrasions
  • Internal injuries and organ damage
  • Neck and shoulder injuries
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What if I Wasn’t Wearing a Helmet

Not wearing a helmet at the time of a motorcycle accident does not automatically prevent you from seeking compensation. While insurance companies may try to argue that the lack of a helmet contributed to your injuries, liability still depends on how the crash occurred and who was at fault. In many cases, injured riders can still recover damages for medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and other losses.

Because helmet use can become a contentious issue, it’s essential to understand how Florida law applies to your specific situation. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney at Carlson Meissner & Hayslett can evaluate the facts of your case, challenge unfair assumptions, and work to protect your right to compensation—even if you were not wearing a helmet at the time of the crash.

What Types of Compensation Can I Recover For My Motorcycle Accident Injuries?

Every motorcycle accident claim is different, so the amount and type of compensation you are awarded can vary on a case-by-case basis. But if you have been injured in a motorcycle accident caused by another party’s negligence, you may be awarded several types of compensation, including:

Special damages

This type of compensation is awarded to victims who have incurred expenses or suffered monetary losses as a result of their injuries. Special damages will cover medical expenses, lost wages, property damage repairs, and more.

General damages

This type of compensation is awarded to victims who have suffered non-monetary losses as a result of their injuries. This may include mental anguish, loss of quality of life, and more.

Punitive damages

The court awards punitive damages in certain cases not to compensate the victim for specific losses, but rather to punish the defendant for their intentional misconduct or gross negligence.

Find out which types of compensation you are entitled to—and how much your claim is worth—by speaking to a Carlson Meissner & Hayslett motorcycle accident lawyer in Clearwater.

When Should I Contact A Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Clearwater?

The sooner you contact our motorcycle wreck attorneys after an accident, the better. We will immediately step in and launch an investigation into the accident so we can gather the evidence we need to prove liability before it’s too late. We will also communicate directly with the insurance company on your behalf to ensure they do not pressure you into making a statement or accepting an offer for less than what you deserve. Our goals are to protect your rights, fight for the compensation you deserve, and make the process as simple as possible for you so you can focus on your recovery.

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How Much Does It Cost to Hire A Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Clearwater?

Every motorcycle accident victim—regardless of their financial status—can afford to hire a personal injury lawyer. This is because the personal injury attorneys at Carlson Meissner & Hayslett in Clearwater work on a contingency fee basis. To put it simply, this means you won’t have to pay for our legal services until and unless we are able to recover compensation for your injuries. If we win, we will take a percentage of the compensation awarded to you. If we don’t win, we won’t get paid for our legal services. This arrangement ensures you never have to pay for our legal services out of your own pocket.

Why Choose the Clearwater Motorcycle Accident Lawyers at Carlson Meissner & Hayslett?

If you were injured in a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation, but insurance companies often work to limit what they pay. The experienced motorcycle accident attorneys in Clearwater at Carlson Meissner & Hayslett have more than 125 years of combined legal experience and know how to establish fault, handle complex insurance negotiations, and pursue the compensation you deserve.

At Carlson Meissner & Hayslett, we provide a personalized, hands-on legal experience rooted in strong ethics and a commitment to client care. Here’s what sets our firm apart:

  • Our attorneys have deep roots in the Tampa Bay area and are actively involved in local schools, charitable organizations, and community leadership roles.
  • We are local advocates—not a national, one-size-fits-all firm—with a strong presence in the communities we serve.
  • Our firm has nominated judges who have earned the trust of clients during some of their most difficult moments.
  • We maintain a family-like environment within our firm, which directly influences the care, attention, and dedication we provide to every client.

Let us work tirelessly to ensure you are fully compensated for your motorcycle accident injuries. To schedule a free consultation regarding your case, call 727-219-2272 or fill out the form on this website.

Casey K. Carlson
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Motorcycle Accident FAQs

Frequently asked questions about motorcycle accidents are vital for offering concise information and guidance. They enable individuals to navigate the aftermath of such incidents with clarity regarding legal, insurance, and safety aspects.

What should I do immediately after being involved in a motorcycle accident?

How long do I have to file a claim after being injured in a motorcycle accident?

How is fault determined in a motorcycle accident case where I've been injured?

Will I have to go to court for a motorcycle accident claim if I've been injured?

What if the at-fault party is uninsured or underinsured, and I've been injured in the motorcycle accident?

What should I do if the insurance company denies or undervalues my motorcycle accident claim after I've been injured?

How long will it take to resolve my motorcycle accident case if I've been injured?

How can a lawyer help me after I've been injured in a motorcycle accident?

What should I do immediately after being involved in a motorcycle accident?

After being injured in a motorcycle accident, the first priority is to seek medical attention for any injuries. It's essential to gather as much evidence as possible, including taking photographs of the accident scene, obtaining contact information from witnesses, and reporting the accident to the police. It is also advisable to consult with a Clearwater motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible to understand your legal rights and options.

How long do I have to file a claim after being injured in a motorcycle accident?

The time limit for filing a motorcycle accident claim, known as the statute of limitations, varies by state. It is crucial to consult with a lawyer promptly to ensure that you do not miss the deadline for filing your claim.

How is fault determined in a motorcycle accident case where I've been injured?

Fault in a motorcycle accident case is determined based on various factors, including witness statements, police reports, accident reconstruction, and other evidence. A skilled motorcycle accident lawyer will carefully analyze the accident details to establish liability and hold the at-fault party accountable.

Will I have to go to court for a motorcycle accident claim if I've been injured?

Many motorcycle accident claims are resolved through settlement negotiations with the involved insurance companies, avoiding the need for a trial. However, if a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer can represent you in court to seek the compensation you deserve.

What if the at-fault party is uninsured or underinsured, and I've been injured in the motorcycle accident?

If the at-fault party is uninsured or underinsured, your own insurance policy may include coverage for such situations. An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can help you navigate the complexities of uninsured/underinsured motorist claims and ensure you receive the compensation you are entitled to, even if the at-fault party cannot fully cover your damages.

What should I do if the insurance company denies or undervalues my motorcycle accident claim after I've been injured?

If your motorcycle accident claim is denied or undervalued by the insurance company, it is crucial to seek legal representation. A knowledgeable motorcycle accident lawyer in clearwater can advocate on your behalf, challenge the denial or undervaluation, and pursue the rightful compensation you deserve through negotiation or, if necessary, through litigation.

How long will it take to resolve my motorcycle accident case if I've been injured?

The duration of a motorcycle accident case can vary based on factors such as the case's complexity, the extent of injuries, and the willingness of the involved parties to negotiate a settlement.

How can a lawyer help me after I've been injured in a motorcycle accident?

A lawyer specializing in motorcycle accidents can provide invaluable assistance by conducting a thorough investigation of the accident, gathering evidence, negotiating with insurance companies, and representing your interests in legal proceedings if necessary. They can also help you understand the full extent of your damages and work to secure fair compensation for your injuries and losses. Rest assured that at Carlson Meissner & Hayslett, we have the experience and expertise necessary to ensure you receive all the compensation you are entitled to. Contact us today to schedule a consultation at our Clearwater offices.

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