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Securing Justice for Motorcycle Accident Victims

To some people, there is nothing more exhilarating and exciting than riding a motorcycle. Hitting the open road on the back of a motorcycle can be thrilling, but it can also be dangerous. Thousands of people are injured in motorcycle accidents every year in the U.S. Sadly, most of these accidents are caused by negligent drivers, which means they could have easily been prevented. If you are injured by a negligent driver, it’s in your best interest to contact a motorcycle accident lawyer in Spring Hill at Carlson Meissner & Hayslett to discuss your case. As a motorcycle accident victim, you could be entitled to compensation, and our attorneys can help you obtain it. Since 1971, we’ve won more than $115 million in compensation for our clients. Let us fight for what you deserve. Call 352-585-9073 now to schedule a free consultation.

Attorneys at Carlson Meissner Law Firm on Personal Injury

Attorney Jennifer A. Burns

What Are the Most Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Spring Hill?

Accidents involving motorcycles can happen for many different reasons. Some of the most common causes of these accidents include:

  • Distracted driving
  • Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
  • Failing to check blind spots or mirrors before changing lanes or backing up
  • Speeding
  • Cutting a motorcyclist off at an intersection
  • Following a motorcyclist too closely
  • Failing to spot the motorcyclist
  • Misjudging the motorcyclist’s speed or distance

Accidents caused by any of these factors could lead to devastating, life-threatening injuries.

Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Motorcycle accidents often result in serious injuries due to the lack of protection riders have compared to those in passenger vehicles. These injuries can lead to long-term recovery, significant medical expenses, and lasting emotional trauma. Some of the most common motorcycle accident injuries include:

  • Road rash: painful skin abrasions from sliding across pavement
  • Broken bones: especially in the arms, legs, and ribs
  • Head injuries: including concussions and traumatic brain injuries
  • Spinal cord injuries: which may result in partial or full paralysis
  • Internal injuries: such as organ damage or internal bleeding
  • Facial injuries: especially if a helmet wasn't worn

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle crash, our team can help you seek the compensation you need for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

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What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident

The moments following a motorcycle accident can be overwhelming, but taking the right steps is crucial for your safety and any future legal claim. 

Here’s what to do:

  • Get to safety and call 911 immediately
  • Seek medical attention, even if injuries seem minor
  • Report the accident to law enforcement and obtain a copy of the police report
  • Document the scene with photos and videos
  • Exchange information with the other driver(s) and any witnesses
  • Avoid admitting fault at the scene

Contact Carlson Meissner & Hayslett before speaking with insurance companies
Taking these steps can help build a strong foundation for your personal injury claim.

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

There are two main types of compensation that are awarded to motorcycle accident victims: compensatory and punitive.

The first type, compensatory damages, is further broken down into special and general damages. Special damages are awarded to victims to compensate them for monetary losses or expenses they have incurred as a result of their injuries. This type of compensation may cover medical expenses, lost wages, and the cost of future medical care, for example.

General damages, on the other hand, compensate victims for non-monetary losses such as mental anguish and pain and suffering.

Punitive damages are not awarded in all personal injury cases. In Spring Hill, punitive damages are only awarded when the victim can prove that the defendant acted with intentional misconduct or gross negligence. If this is proven, the court will order the defendant to pay punitive damages as a form of punishment for their egregious conduct.

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What Is the Statute of Limitations For Motorcycle Accident Lawsuits in Florida?

The statute of limitations for motorcycle accident lawsuits varies from state to state. In Florida, the statute of limitations is four years. If you were injured in a motorcycle accident, this means you have four years from the date the accident occurred to file a personal injury lawsuit against the at-fault party. The court will most likely dismiss your lawsuit if you miss this deadline, which is why it’s so important to take legal action right away. It’s best to contact a motorcycle accident attorney in Spring Hill immediately after the crash so you can recover compensation as quickly as possible.

Man on the ground next to an overturned motorcycle.

Why Should I Hire A Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Spring Hill?

Motorcyclists who are involved in accidents often suffer severe injuries. If you are suffering from a severe injury, the last thing you should be worried about is negotiating with an insurance company and fighting for the compensation you rightfully deserve. During a time like this, you should be focused solely on recovering from your injuries. Let the motorcycle wreck attorneys at Carlson Meissner & Hayslett handle the rest. Our team, which consists of skilled litigators, former state prosecutors, and a former FBI special agent, will work together to provide you with the most effective legal representation possible. Our goal is to help you secure every dollar of compensation you deserve for your injuries. We are here to serve you and protect your best interests.

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How Do You Determine Negligence in a Motorcycle Accident Case?

Determining negligence in a motorcycle accident involves proving that another party acted carelessly and caused your injuries. To build a strong case, you must establish the following elements:

  • Duty of Care: The at-fault party had a legal obligation to drive safely and follow traffic laws.
  • Breach of Duty: They failed to uphold that duty through reckless or negligent behavior, such as speeding or distracted driving.
  • Causation: Their breach directly caused the accident and your resulting injuries.
  • Damages: You suffered physical, emotional, or financial harm as a result.

Collecting evidence like accident reports, witness statements, medical records, and traffic camera footage is key in proving these elements. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney at Carlson Meissner & Hayslett can help you gather the necessary proof and pursue fair compensation.

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Meet With Our Motorcycle Accident Attorneys During A Free Consultation

If you were injured in a motorcycle accident in Spring Hill, you may be entitled to compensation. But insurance companies make it difficult for victims to obtain the compensation they are entitled to by law. That’s why you should turn to the skilled motorcycle accident attorneys at Carlson Meissner & Hayslett for help.

With over 125 years of legal experience, our team knows how to establish liability, go head-to-head with insurance companies, and secure the compensation our clients deserve. To schedule a free consultation regarding your case, call 352-585-9073 or fill out a contact form.

Motorcycle Accident FAQs

How much is my motorcycle accident case worth?

Can I still recover compensation if I’m partially at fault for the accident?

What are the motorcycle helmet requirements in Florida?

Should I still call the police if the other party accepts responsibility?

What if the insurance company wants me to provide a recorded statement?

If the insurance company offers a settlement, should I accept?

How much is my motorcycle accident case worth?

The value of your motorcycle accident case depends on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering. Each case is unique, and a consultation with an experienced attorney can provide a more accurate estimate.

Can I still recover compensation if I’m partially at fault for the accident?

Yes, Florida follows a comparative fault system, meaning you can still recover compensation even if you're partially at fault, but your award may be reduced based on the percentage of fault attributed to you.

What are the motorcycle helmet requirements in Florida?

In Florida, motorcyclists under 21 are required to wear a helmet. Riders 21 and older can ride without a helmet if they have at least $10,000 in medical insurance coverage for motorcycle-related injuries.

Should I still call the police if the other party accepts responsibility?

Yes, you should always call the police after a motorcycle accident, regardless of who accepts responsibility. A police report is an essential document for your claim and helps establish the facts of the accident.

What if the insurance company wants me to provide a recorded statement?

It’s best to speak with an attorney before giving a recorded statement to the insurance company. Your words can be used against you, and an attorney can help protect your interests while ensuring you don’t inadvertently damage your case.

If the insurance company offers a settlement, should I accept?

You should never accept a settlement offer without consulting an attorney. Insurance companies often offer lower settlements than what you may be entitled to. Our team at Carlson Meissner & Hayslett can help ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.

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