How Long Do You Have to Report a Motorcycle Accident to Your Insurance?
Motorcycle accidents in Hillsborough County are unfortunately common and can result in serious, potentially life-threatening personal injuries. In the aftermath, you may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs through insurance policies you or others involved have in place.
However, be aware that insurers are for-profit companies and look for ways to deny or downplay claims. Failing to report your accident to them can give them cause. Our Brandon motorcycle accident lawyers explain how to protect yourself and your rights in this situation.
Steps to Take Immediately After a Motorcycle Accident in Brandon
According to statistics from the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), over 600 motorcycle accidents in Hillsborough County happen each year. They often occur due to the reckless behavior of other motorists involved. With little to protect them in these collisions, personal injuries suffered by motorcyclists can cause devastating harm.
To protect your health and your rights to compensation in a motorcycle accident claim, it is important to take some basic steps when any type of crash occurs:
- Notify the police so that an accident report can be filed;
- Exchange contact, insurance, and vehicle information with other drivers involved;
- Get contact information for witnesses at the scene;
- Gather other evidence, such as photos showing the damage to your motorcycle;
- Seek medical care, regardless of the severity of your injuries, and follow all doctor instructions regarding activity restrictions and aftercare.
Insurance and Other Motorcycle Accident Reporting Requirements in Florida
In the aftermath of a motorcycle accident in Brandon, your top priority should be taking care of yourself and getting through the recovery process. However, there are some time-sensitive steps you are required to take, which could impact your rights in filing a claim. The following are timelines for each:
- You must submit a Florida Traffic Crash Report-Long Form to the FLHSMV within 10 days of a crash.
- Under the Florida Statutes, you must seek medical care within 14 days of your accident if you plan on submitting a claim to your insurer.
- Most insurers have varying time limits in which they require notification. Check the terms of your specific policy.
- If the other driver is uninsured and your own policy fails to cover your costs, you have up to two years to file a motorcycle accident lawsuit through the Hillsborough County Civil Court.
For Trusted Legal Guidance in Filing a Claim, Contact Our Brandon Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
Motorcycle accident injuries in Brandon can cause devastating harm. You could be facing heavy medical expenses, lost wages, and other costs for years to come. To protect your rights to compensation, get Carmen and Bevington: Brandon Legal on your side.
We provide the trusted legal guidance you need throughout the claims process and negotiate with insurers on your behalf to get the best possible settlement. To request a consultation with our Brandon motorcycle accident lawyer, call or contact our office online today.