Matthew Mincone | February 20, 2025 | Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents can lead to severe injuries due to the lack of protection for riders compared to those in cars. If you’ve been hurt in a motorcycle accident, you might be wondering whether you need to hire a lawyer.
The answer often depends on the severity of your injuries, the circumstances surrounding the accident, and whether you encounter challenges with insurance or fault. In this blog post, we’ll explore why hiring a motorcycle injury lawyer in Tampa, Florida after a motorcycle accident is crucial and how they can assist in maximizing your compensation.
Why You Should Consider Hiring a Lawyer After a Motorcycle Accident
Motorcycle accidents often involve complex legal issues, especially when dealing with insurance claims, determining fault, and recovering compensation. In Florida, motorcycle accidents are governed by laws that differ from those of car accidents, which means having an attorney who understands the nuances of these cases can be invaluable.
Florida Statute § 627.736 requires that drivers of most motor vehicles carry personal injury protection (PIP) insurance, but motorcycle riders are generally not covered under this law. This means that if you are injured in a motorcycle accident, you may need to rely on other forms of insurance or pursue a claim against the at-fault driver. A motorcycle accident lawyer can help guide you through this process, ensuring you don’t miss out on any available benefits.
How a Lawyer Can Help Maximize Your Compensation
After a motorcycle accident, victims often face significant medical expenses, lost wages, and other financial hardships. A lawyer specializing in motorcycle accidents can help you recover the full compensation you deserve by evaluating both economic and non-economic damages. Economic damages cover things like medical bills and lost wages, while non-economic damages may include pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of quality of life.
Under Florida law, if you are found to be partially responsible for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. However, if you are 51% or more at fault, you will be barred from recovering damages.
A lawyer can help argue that your responsibility in the accident is minimal or even non-existent, maximizing your potential recovery. Having an attorney ensures you receive compensation for all damages, including those you may not immediately consider, such as the long-term consequences of your injuries.
Dealing With Insurance Companies
Insurance companies are businesses with one goal: to minimize the amount they pay out. After a motorcycle accident, insurance adjusters may attempt to offer you a settlement much lower than what you deserve. They might argue that the accident was your fault or downplay the severity of your injuries. Without legal representation, you could easily settle for less than you are entitled to.
A lawyer will handle negotiations with the insurance company on your behalf, ensuring that your interests are prioritized. They understand insurance companies’ tactics and can fight to get you the compensation you deserve through negotiation or litigation.
Florida Statute § 627.727 addresses uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage, which can come into play if the responsible driver has insufficient insurance coverage. A lawyer can help you navigate these types of claims to ensure you don’t face financial hardship due to another driver’s negligence.
Having a lawyer to deal with the insurance company helps protect you from making decisions that could negatively impact your recovery.
When Should You Consider Legal Representation?
While not every motorcycle accident requires legal representation, it’s crucial to consult with a lawyer if you’ve sustained significant injuries or if there are disputes over liability. Here are a few situations where hiring a lawyer is highly recommended:
- Serious Injuries or Long-term Medical Treatment: If your injuries require ongoing medical care, rehabilitation, or lead to permanent disability, a lawyer can help you pursue long-term compensation.
- Disputed Liability: If the other driver or insurance company is contesting fault, having an attorney ensures that your case is properly presented to secure a fair outcome.
- Inadequate Insurance Coverage: If the other driver is underinsured or uninsured, a lawyer can help you recover compensation from your own insurance company.
If any of these situations apply to your case, consulting with a lawyer can help protect your rights and improve your chances of obtaining the compensation you deserve.
Do You Need a Lawyer for Your Motorcycle Accident?
If you’ve been hurt in a motorcycle accident in Tampa, hiring a lawyer is highly advisable. An experienced attorney can help you navigate the complex legal processes, deal with insurance companies, and ensure that you are fairly compensated for your injuries.
Florida law has specific statutes that address motorcycle accidents and insurance coverage, and understanding how these laws apply to your case can make all the difference in your recovery.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident, don’t hesitate to contact a personal injury attorney today. They can help you understand your legal options and protect your rights as you seek justice and compensation.
Contact the Tampa Motorcycle Accident Lawyers at Mincone Personal Injury Lawyers for Help Today
If you’ve been injured in an accident in Tampa, FL, contact our skilled motorcycle accident lawyers at Mincone Personal Injury Lawyers to schedule a free consultation.
We proudly serve Hillsborough County and its surrounding areas:
Mincone Personal Injury Lawyers
1925 E 6th Ave Ste 10
Tampa, FL 33605
(813) 800-0810
About The Author
Attorney Matthew Mincone is the founder of Mincone Personal Injury Lawyers. He earned his law degree while attending night programs in New York and is licensed to practice in Florida and New York. With over 15 years of legal experience, Matthew focuses on personal injury cases, including motor vehicle accidents involving cars, commercial trucks, and motorcycles. His commitment to personally handling each case ensures clients receive dedicated representation. Click here to view some of the remarkable case results that Matthew has successfully achieved.
Location: Tampa, FL
