Orlando Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Focused On Your Recovery
There are always risks when getting behind the wheel, but that danger is multiplied when mounting a motorcycle. Without the protection that seat belts and airbags provide in cars and trucks, even a fender bender can lead to serious injuries for motorcyclists. It is an unfortunate truth, but even wearing a helmet and protective clothing, and obeying the rules of the road cannot always keep you accident- or injury-free.
Your focus should be on healing, not on paying for medical bills or damages. You can depend on the skilled attorneys of Wieland & DeLattre. We have over 80 years of combined experience handling motorcycle and other serious accidents in Orlando and throughout Florida. We have represented clients who are avid motorcycle riders and have been doing so for years to help them obtain the compensation they need.
Crucial Steps After A Motorcycle Accident
The moments following a motorcycle accident are critical for protecting your health and legal rights. Taking appropriate action can significantly impact your recovery and potential compensation. If you’re involved in a motorcycle accident, follow these essential steps:
- Seek prompt medical attention, if you are experiencing pain and discomfort
- Call law enforcement to file an official accident report, if able
- Document the scene with photos and videos if able
- Get contact information from witnesses, if able
- Get the driver’s insurance and contact information, if able
- Avoid discussing fault or giving recorded statements
- Keep all damaged gear and motorcycle parts as evidence
- Follow all medical treatment plans completely
Common Causes Of Motorcycle Accidents
Orlando’s busy roads present numerous hazards for motorcyclists, often resulting from the negligence of other drivers. Understanding these common causes can help you stay vigilant while riding. The most frequent causes of motorcycle accidents we see include:
- Drivers failing to see motorcycles in traffic
- Left-turning vehicles crossing a motorcycle’s path
- Distracted driving (texting, phone use)
- Drivers changing lanes without checking blind spots
- Impaired driving (alcohol or drugs)
- Speeding or aggressive driving
- Dangerous road conditions (potholes, debris)
- Door openings from parked vehicles
- Sudden stops that cause rear-end collisions
- Defective motorcycle parts or equipment
Many of these accidents result from other drivers not paying adequate attention to motorcycles sharing the roadway, highlighting the importance of defensive riding techniques.
Common Types Of Motorcycle Crash Injuries
Motorcycle accidents often result in more severe injuries than typical car crashes because riders lack the protective shell of a vehicle. Without adequate protection, motorcyclists frequently suffer:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
- Road rash and severe skin abrasions
- Broken and fractured bones
- Lower extremity injuries (legs, knees, feet)
- Internal organ damage
- Facial fractures and disfigurement
- Neck and back injuries
- Amputations
- Psychological trauma and PTSD
These injuries typically require extensive medical treatment and lengthy rehabilitation periods, and often result in substantial medical bills and lost income during recovery.
Can I Pursue An Accident Claim If I Wasn’t Wearing A Helmet?
You can receive compensation after a motorcycle accident even if you weren’t wearing a helmet. Florida law does not require helmet use for riders over 21 with at least $10,000 in medical insurance coverage. However, not wearing a helmet may impact your case under Florida’s comparative negligence rules.
The court may reduce your compensation by the percentage of fault assigned to you for your injuries. For example, if the insurance company can prove that your head injuries would have been less severe with a helmet, compensation may be reduced accordingly. However, this only applies to head injuries and not to others like broken bones or road rash.
We work diligently to demonstrate how the other driver’s negligence caused the accident regardless of your actions, focusing on maximizing your compensation for all eligible damages.
Should I Accept An Insurance Company’s Offer?
Insurance companies often contact motorcycle accident victims quickly with settlement offers that seem generous at first glance. However, we strongly advise against accepting any offer without consulting an experienced motorcycle attorney. Initial settlement offers typically fall far below what your case is worth and may not account for future medical needs or other long-term impacts. In addition, if you own a motor vehicle at the time of your motorcycle accident, insurance coverage on your motor vehicle can compensate you for your injuries.
Once you accept a settlement, you cannot request additional damages later, even if your injuries worsen. A fair settlement should include compensation for:
- Current and future medical expenses
- Lost wages and diminished earning capacity
- Physical pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Property damage to your motorcycle
- Rehabilitation costs
- Personal care expenses
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Permanent disability or disfigurement
Working with a skilled motorcycle accident attorney is essential when dealing with insurance companies that prioritize their profits over your recovery. Insurance adjusters receive extensive training on minimizing payouts and may use your statements against you. An experienced motorcycle attorney understands these tactics and will protect your interests throughout the claims process.
For over 35 years, Wieland & DeLattre has represented injured motorcyclists in Orlando and throughout Florida. Our attorneys understand riders’ unique challenges on the road and during the legal process. We know how to counter the unfair bias that sometimes exists against motorcyclists and build compelling cases that demonstrate the full extent of your damages.
At our family-oriented firm, we provide personalized attention to every client. We take the time to understand how your injuries have affected your life and work tirelessly to secure the compensation you need to move forward. While you focus on recovery, we handle all aspects of your case, from investigating the crash to negotiating with insurance companies. With our team fighting for your rights, you can feel confident knowing we’ll pursue every dollar you deserve.
Contact Us Today For Aggressive Representation
We advocate tirelessly to meet your needs and protect your family’s future. Email our firm or call 407-841-7699 to arrange a free consultation with an experienced personal injury lawyer. We proudly serve injured individuals in the Central Florida area and all throughout Florida.