What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Florida
The screech of tires, the crunch of metal, the sudden jolt—motorcycle accidents in Florida can leave you shaken, hurt, and overwhelmed. Whether you were riding down I-95 in Miami or cruising along Gulf Boulevard in St. Petersburg, the moments after a crash are critical. Knowing what to do can protect your health, your rights, and your future. At Kaiser Romanello Accident & Injury Attorneys, we’ve helped countless Florida riders navigate this chaos with nearly 25 years of experience. Here’s what you need to do—step by step—to take control after a motorcycle accident.
Prioritize Your Safety and Health
Your well-being comes first. Even if you feel “fine,” adrenaline can mask serious injuries like concussions or internal bleeding. In 2022, Florida reported over 8,000 motorcycle crashes, with many resulting in severe injuries, according to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV). Get medical attention immediately, whether at the scene or a hospital in Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, or Tampa. This not only ensures your health but also creates a medical record tying your injuries to the accident—a key piece of evidence for your claim.
Report the Accident and Gather Evidence
Call 911 to report the crash, especially if you’re on a busy road like International Speedway Boulevard in Daytona Beach. A police report documents critical details, like who was involved and what happened. If you’re able, take photos of the scene: your bike, the other vehicle, skid marks, and road conditions. Collect contact information from witnesses—someone on Hollywood Boulevard might have seen the driver who cut you off. Avoid discussing fault at the scene; anything you say could be used against you later.
Notify Your Insurance, But Be Cautious
Florida’s no-fault laws don’t fully apply to motorcyclists, meaning you’ll likely need to pursue compensation from the at-fault driver’s insurance. Notify your insurer promptly, but don’t give a detailed statement or accept a quick settlement without legal advice. Insurance companies often minimize payouts, leaving victims with unpaid medical bills or repair costs. In 2023, NHTSA reported that motorcyclists face higher injury costs—averaging $20,000 per crash—than car drivers. An experienced attorney can ensure you’re not shortchanged.
Why These Steps Matter
Every action you take after a crash builds your case. Delaying medical care or failing to document the scene can weaken your claim, especially if the other driver blames you. Florida’s comparative negligence laws mean your compensation could be reduced if you’re found partially at fault. With heavy traffic on roads like 4th Street North in St. Pete or A1A in Broward County, disputes over fault are common. The right steps protect your ability to recover damages for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
How Kaiser Romanello Can Help
At Kaiser Romanello, we understand the unique challenges motorcyclists face in Florida. From investigating the accident scene to negotiating with insurers, our team fights for the maximum compensation you deserve. We’ve handled cases across South Florida and beyond, from Hialeah to West Palm Beach, with a no-fees-unless-you-win policy. Don’t let the stress of a crash overwhelm you—we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Don’t wait to protect your rights. Time is critical after a motorcycle accident in Florida. Contact Kaiser Romanello Accident & Injury Attorneys today for a free case review at 844-877-8679. Act now—your future depends on it.