Still reeling from a wreck? Talk to an expert Florida motorcycle injury lawyer about your personal injury claim and right to compensation.
In motor vehicle crashes, there is no “cut and dry” approach when it comes to litigating your case. Whether you want to file a claim for a car accident, truck accident or motorcycle accident, the best thing you can do is to consult with an expert personal injury lawyer who specializes in your specific type of case.
With motorcycle wrecks, in particular, finding an expert lawyer who fully understands Florida laws and how to navigate the complexities of proving fault is essential to building a strong case. The injuries sustained in motorcycle wrecks are typically much more severe, which is why finding an attorney who is familiar with complex medical issues and who can compellingly argue your case should be a priority following an accident.
Right to Ride. The expert legal team at Lorenzo & Lorenzo believes that motorcyclists have the same rights and privileges as any other driver. Learning how to share the road is the key to safety. However, sometimes no matter how much you try to make yourself visible on the road, accidents can happen. When they do, it’s time to talk to an expert accident attorney.
Our expert Tampa injury lawyers won’t settle for less than you deserve.
Contact Lorenzo & Lorenzo today for a free case evaluation.
Motorcycle Injury Statistics
The data shows that motorcyclists are much more likely to be killed in a fatal car wreck than drivers of closed vehicles. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 56 out of every 100,000 registered motorbikes were involved in a fatal crash, compared with only 9 out of every 100,000 passenger cars. Here are some other concerning crash statistics:
- In 2013, 4,668 people died in motorcycle crashes, down 6.4 percent from 4,986 in 2012, according to a NHTSA report.
- In 2013, 88,000 motorcyclists were injured, down 5.4 percent from 93,000 in 2012.
- In 2013, motorcyclists were about 26 times more likely than passenger car occupants to die in a crash per vehicle mile traveled and five times more likely to be injured.
- There were about 8.4 million motorcycles on the road in 2013.
Consult a Tampa Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today
As an accident victim, you are likely entitled to certain compensation benefits. However, motorcycle crash cases are not as simple as they seem. If you or a loved one were injured in a wreck, one of the first things you should do is call a law firm near you that specializes in these types of cases. There is a deadline to filing an accident claim, so do not delay.
At Lorenzo & Lorenzo, we specialize in motorcycle injury cases around Tampa, Clearwater and St. Petersburg, Florida. Our highly skilled and top-rated expert lawyers provide personal attention and quality representation to ensure that you receive the maximum compensation possible.
For your FREE consultation, call us today to learn how our family is determined to fight for you.
Tampa Motorcycle Wrecks – Common Causes
Deadly and serious accidents in Tampa are frequently caused by a number of factors – both by motorcyclists and drivers alike. These common causes include:
- Dangerous road conditions
- Changing lanes without looking
- Speeding
- Tailing too closely
- Cutting off a rider
- Failing to yield
- Using a cell phone while driving
- Colliding with stationary objects
- Pulling out in front of a motorcycle without giving adequate time or space
- Distracted and negligent driving
- Malfunctioning equipment
What to Do After a Motorcycle Crash?
You can improve your chances of winning your injury claim by taking the proper steps immediately following the incident:
- Get out of harm’s way if possible.
- Contact the authorities.
- Get a police report.
- Gather eyewitness testimonies & contact info.
- Take photographs of the accident scene.
- Notify your insurance company.
- Seek medical treatment & follow up with doctor checkups.
- Document everything.
- Contact an experienced attorney.
Liability & Compensation in Florida Motorcycle Accident Cases
The costs from motorcycle injuries are shown to be 4 to 12 times higher on average than other car accident cases. Compensation for motorcycle accident damages can be granted for medical bills (both current and future), pain and suffering, and lost wages or loss of earning capacity – in addition to property loss and punitive damages. Punitive damages are when fines are levied to punish the at-fault party in rare cases, typically involving road rage or drunk driving.
Unfortunately, pursuing an injury claim in a motorcycle accident case is often more difficult and prolonged due the nature of the case. Florida negligence law requires the plaintiff to prove that the wreck was caused by the other party or individual being sued. On top of that, motorcyclists must often overcome the unfair preconception held by judges, juries and insurers that bikers are reckless and careless drivers. Defense attorneys and insurance companies will attempt to pay out the least amount possible by playing this card.
Even if it can be proven that the other driver was at fault, the other side might try to reduce your claim amount by trying to find ways to hold you partly responsible. According to Florida’s comparative negligence laws, a portion of fault can be attributed to more than one party in a Tampa motorcycle accident. So, for instance, if a biker was not wearing his or her helmet at the time of the crash, they could be held comparatively liable for damages.
Whether you are a weekend warrior, daily commuter, or merely visiting the Sunshine State for Biketoberfest or Daytona Bike Week, every motorcyclist should be aware of the laws — specifically your legal rights in the event of an unforeseen accident. Lorenzo & Lorenzo can help. Call us today.