Riding a motorcycle in Florida is a great way to enjoy the state’s open roads, incredible scenery and great attractions. However, it’s not without its risks. Poor road conditions, defective equipment, bad weather and other vehicles on the road are just a few of the causes of motorcycle accidents in Florida.
Because motorcycles lack the safety features found in automobiles, becoming involved in an accident with another vehicle or losing control of a motorcycle can result in serious, even fatal injuries. Common injuries from motorcycle accidents include:
Road Rash
Road rash occurs when a motorcyclist slides across the pavement during an accident or after being thrown from their motorcycle. Injuries caused by road rash can range from mild bruising, cuts or scrapes to severe gashes, muscle damage, infection, nerve damage and permanent scarring. Motorcycle jackets, long pants and a helmet can help reduce the severity of road rash.
Bone Fractures
Many motorcycle riders commonly suffer from fractured arm, leg, foot, rib, collar, waist or wrist bones after being thrown from their motorcycle during the accident. These types of injuries have the potential to permanently disable or disfigure the victim.
Head Injuries
Head injuries — skull fractures, concussions and traumatic brain injuries — are the most serious type of motorcycle accident-related injuries. Of course, the most effective way to reduce the risk of head injury is to wear a helmet while riding a motorcycle.
Neck injuries
Damage to the delicate structures of the neck, including the spinal cord, can result in severe injury, even permanent paralysis.
Avoiding a Motorcycle Accident
Ways to avoid motorcycle accident injuries in Florida:
- Check your motorcycle (brakes, lights, tire pressure and wear, etc.) before you hit the road.
- Wear protective gear — especially a helmet. A quality motorcycle helmet is your best way to avoid serious head injuries if you become involved in a motorcycle accident.
- Be aware of your surroundings — most accidents involving cars and motorcycles occur because the driver of the automobile didn’t see the motorcycle.
- Don’t speed — a leading cause of single motorcycle accidents
- Don’t ride while intoxicated.
- Avoid riding in bad weather or high water. Beware of slick spots on the road.
Contact Tania Rivas, A Respected Central Florida Motorcycle Accident Injury Attorney
The first thing to do after a Florida motorcycle accident is to get medical treatment. The next thing to do is contact a personal injury attorney with extensive experience in motorcycle accident injury litigation.
Tania Rivas of the Rivas Law Group is a well-respected Central Florida motorcycle accident injury attorney. She knows how to investigate the accident scene, prove who was liable in an accident and aggressively negotiate with the major insurance companies to obtain the full settlement you are owed for your injuries, all while treating you with the compassion and consideration you deserve during this difficult time.
If you’ve suffered injuries from a motorcycle accident in Florida, you may be entitled to compensation for the damages caused by your injuries, including past and ongoing medical expenses, loss of income and pain and suffering. Don’t let a motorcycle accident injury leave you without hope — contact Lutz motorcycle accident attorney Tania Rivas and the Rivas Law Group without delay. Tania handles Florida motorcycle accident cases on a contingency basis, which means there are no up-front costs for her top-notch legal services and she only collects a fee after obtaining a settlement on your behalf.