Motorcycle accidents cause hundreds of serious injuries a day. Motorcycles don’t offer as much protection as standard vehicles because of their size and structure. Crashes involving motorcycles are usually more severe than car accidents. The knowledge of a Lakeland motorcycle accident attorney is needed in these tough situations.
These accidents leave victims with serious injuries, chronic pain and permanent disfigurement. They can kill the driver or passenger in some cases.
From the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nearly 5,932 motorcycle riders died in the U.S. in 2021. Around 82,686 motorcycle riders had injuries while riding in the same year.
Who Is to Blame for Motorcycle Accidents in Florida?
Different people are to blame for motorcycle accidents in Florida. Drivers of larger vehicles can fail to see or pay enough attention to motorcycles. This is because these vehicles look smaller and behave differently on the road than other cars and trucks.
Some causes of motorcycle accidents are:
- Human error,
- mechanical errors,
- poor road engineering,
- bad weather,
- unclear signage,
- drivers who don’t obey traffic laws,
- people who drive while distracted on a cell phone,
- people who drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs,
- or drivers who are breaking laws at the time of the accident.
Florida motorcycle riders have to pay more attention to safety on the roads than motorists to avoid accidents. This is most true when riding a motorcycle during or just after a rainstorm, when the roads are wet and slick.
Motorcycle Accidents Can Cause These Types of Serious Injuries
Motorcycle accidents usually result in very serious injuries and sometimes death. These injuries include:
- road rash,
- bone fractures,
- Head and neck injuries,
- brain injuries,
- spinal injuries,
- traumatic brain injuries,
- and loss of limbs.
The serious injuries that often result from motorcycle accidents can require extensive medical care and rehabilitation. In addition to the immediate physical pain, some injuries can have long-term consequences, such as:
- Chronic pain: Even after healing from an initial injury, some people experience chronic pain that can significantly impact their daily life.
- Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): The trauma of a motorcycle accident can lead to PTSD, causing anxiety, flashbacks, and nightmares.
- Long-term disability: Severe injuries can result in long-term disabilities that limit a person’s mobility, earning capacity, and ability to perform daily tasks.
Don’t let a motorcycle accident injury leave you without hope. Our Florida motorcycle accident attorneys takes injury cases on a contingency basis, which means there are no up-front costs. She only collects a fee after obtaining a settlement on your behalf of a motorcycle accident lawsuit.
Compensation for the Types of Losses Motorcycle Accident Victims Suffer
You may suffer both short and long term economic losses in you were in a motorcycle accident. Our Lakeland personal injury attorney has been successful in getting compensation for injured victims for the following:
- past and future lost wages,
- past and future medical expenses,
- loss of future earning capacity,
- property damage,
- reimbursement for out of pocket expenses,
- and past and future pain and suffering.
As an attorney experienced in motorcycle accidents, Tania Rivas can be a strong advocate in your corner, fighting for the compensation you deserve and navigating the complexities of insurance claims and Florida law.
What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident
Being involved in a motorcycle accident can be a frightening and overwhelming experience. Here are some important steps to take to protect yourself and your rights:
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health is the top priority. Even if you don’t feel immediate pain, get checked out by a doctor as injuries can sometimes appear later.
- Contact Law Enforcement: Report the accident to the police and obtain a copy of the police report. This will be a crucial piece of evidence.
- Gather Evidence: If you are able, take pictures of the scene of the accident, including the damage to your motorcycle, the other vehicles involved, any skid marks, and road conditions. If possible, take pictures of your injuries as well. This will help document the accident scene and your injuries.
- Exchange Information: Get the names, contact information, and insurance details of all drivers involved in the accident. Also try to get the names and contact information of any witnesses.
- Keep Records: Save all medical bills, receipts, and repair estimates related to the accident. This will be important documentation for any insurance claims or legal actions.
Remember: Don’t leave the scene of the accident or admit fault to anyone.
Motorcycle Accident FAQs
Can I Sue for Wrongful Death if My Loved One Was Killed in a Motorcycle Accident?
The answer is YES. You may be feeling overwhelmed and confused if you are dealing with the loss of a loved one from a motorcycle accident. No amount of money can replace your loved one. Families often suffer a large economic hardship following their sudden death.
Tania L. Rivas has a lot of experience in filing wrongful death claims. She will help get past and future losses for your family. You do not have to go at this alone. We are here to help.
Can I Recover Damages If I Wasn’t Wearing a Helmet in My Motorcycle Accident?
It is legal in Florida for motorcycle riders over the age of 21 to ride without a helmet. We feel that wearing a helmet is still the safe thing to do. Studies show that wearing a helmet greatly reduces the severity of head and neck injuries after a crash.
You may still be able to seek damages from the at fault parties if you are injured in a motorcycle accident while not wearing a helmet. Remember, if you ride without a helmet, Florida law requires that you carry at least $10,000 in medical insurance for injuries that are the result of a crash.
If The Insurance Company Requests a Compulsory Medical Examination, What Do I Do?
If you are injured in a motorcycle accident in Florida, the defendant’s insurance company may request that you undergo a Compulsory Medical Examination (CME) by a physician they have hired to confirm that your injuries are as severe as you claim.
If you refuse to comply, the insurance company can refuse to pay your claim and move to have your lawsuit dismissed. However, Florida courts have established guidelines regarding CMEs to protect plaintiffs.
Find out more about protecting your rights during a Compulsory Medical Exam.
Should I Give a Recorded Statement to an Insurance Company After a Motorcycle Accident?
There are no laws in the state of Florida that require an accident victim to give a statement to an insurance company. At Rivas Law Group, we believe that there are many good reasons not to.
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, the best thing you can do is not to sign any agreements or give a recorded statement to the defendants’ insurance company until you’ve spoken to an attorney.
Read more about dealing with insurance companies after an accident.
Finding the Doctor You Need After a Motorcycle Injury
Seek immediate medical attention if you are in a motorcycle accident. The injuries may not show right away but can develop in the days that follow.
You may need the services of a chiropractor, orthopedic specialist, neurologist, or even a neurosurgeon. Don’t wait to get the medical care you need. We can help you with scheduling an appointment with a doctor you need. We offer a free case review.
Call Lakeland Motorcycle Accident Attorney Tania Rivas for a Free Consultation
Do not wait to call an attorney if you have been involved in a motorcycle accident in Lakeland or the surrounding area. Injuries from even “minor” accidents can lead to large medical bills, expensive rehabilitation and a loss of earning capacity. Often times more than auto accidents. We will fight the insurance company for you to make sure you get the compensation you deserve.
To learn more about recovering damages in Polk County, contact Rivas Law Group today at (877) 299-5539. Our compassionate advocates will evaluate your case for free and be able to give you legal advice. We will help you understand your options and offer much needed guidance and support.
