How Insurance Companies Try To Undervalue Florida Motorcycle Accident Claims
If you’ve been in a motorcycle crash in Florida, you probably expect the at-fault driver’s insurance company to play fair. However, the truth is, they often don’t. Insurance companies are in business to make money, and part of that means settling claims for as little as possible. Adjusters may use different tactics to reduce what they pay, especially when injuries are serious and medical costs are piling up.
Below, we share some of the ways insurers try to undervalue Florida motorcycle accident claims.
Offering a Quick Settlement Before You Understand the Full Extent of Your Injuries
The at-fault driver’s insurance company might reach out to you with a settlement offer right after the crash. A fast settlement offer sounds nice, but it usually comes before you understand how seriously injured you are or what your long-term medical needs will be.
Shifting Blame to the Motorcyclist
Insurance companies love to shift blame. They may argue you were speeding, weaving through traffic, or otherwise acting recklessly, even if the facts don’t support that. Florida uses a modified comparative negligence system. Under this law, if you’re more than 50% at fault for your accident, you lose your right to recover damages. If you’re less at fault, your compensation drops by your share of the blame. That’s why it’s so important to gather and preserve strong evidence that can help prove what really happened.
Questioning the Severity of Your Injuries
Another common tactic adjusters use is to question how seriously a motorcyclist is hurt. They might dig through your medical records, bring up old injuries, or suggest you’re receiving excessive or unnecessary treatment.
The best way to push back is to attend every medical appointment, follow your doctor’s orders, and keep detailed medical records that can help show exactly how the crash changed your life.
Using Your Statements Against You
Be careful what you say to the insurance company. Adjusters might ask for a recorded statement. Even casual comments like “I feel okay now” can be twisted to make your injuries seem minor. Before providing any statements to an insurance company, it’s best to speak to an attorney. A skilled lawyer can help you understand what to say and what not to say. They can even handle communications with the insurance company on your behalf.
Disputing the Value of Non-Economic Damages
Medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage are only part of a motorcycle accident claim. Non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, emotional stress, loss of enjoyment of life, or permanent impairment, can also be significant.
However, because there’s no simple formula for calculating these losses, insurance companies often minimize them. Thorough medical documentation, expert opinions, and testimony about how your injuries affect your daily life can strengthen this aspect of your claim.
Protecting Yourself
Want to make your case as strong as possible? Keep photos, preserve records, follow your treatment, and resist the urge to talk about your accident online. Also, hire a skilled attorney as soon as possible. If liability or damages are contested, experienced legal representation can help protect your rights and pursue the full compensation you deserve.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For legal advice, speak to an attorney.
Contact Us for Legal Help
If you’ve been hurt in a Florida motorcycle accident, our Orlando motorcycle accident attorneys are here to help. Let our team at Orlando Accident Attorneys handle the insurance company, assess your damages, and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Source:
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0700-0799/0768/Sections/0768.81.html