In most Lutz motorcycle accidents involving other vehicles, it is the driver of the other vehicle who is at fault. They often simply don’t see the motorcyclist when they change lanes, pull out into traffic, or go through intersections. If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident in Lutz that was due to the negligent actions of another, you have a right to seek the full compensation you are due for all the pain, suffering and economic losses resulting from your injuries.
Because of their size and structure, motorcycles simply don’t offer their riders as much protection as standard trucks or automobiles. Injuries in a motorcycle accident can be severe, with life-changing consequences. A Lutz motorcycle accident attorney can help you recover maximum compensation for the damages you’ve suffered.
What Should I Do After a Motorcycle Accident?
The first and most important thing you should do after a motorcycle accident is seek medical attention, even if you don’t believe you’ve been seriously injured.
Many injuries resulting from motorcycle accidents, such as whiplash or other soft tissue damage, may not be immediately apparent. By seeking medical attention right away, you will ensure that any injuries you may have will be properly diagnosed and treated.
You should also immediately contact an experienced Lutz motorcycle accident attorney to discuss your case and find out what legal options are available to you.
The insurance company for the at-fault driver will likely try to contact you soon after the accident to get you to give a recorded statement or sign away your rights to full compensation. You should NEVER give a recorded statement or sign ANYTHING without first consulting with an attorney. The insurance company is NOT on your side and their goal is to pay you as little as possible – or nothing at all.
An experienced motorcycle accident attorney will know how to deal with the insurance companies and fight for the full compensation you deserve.
Common Injuries from Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, depending on the severity of the crash and the rider’s protective gear. Here’s a closer look at some of the most common injuries motorcyclists face, along with information on treatment and recovery:
- Road Rash: This painful injury occurs when your skin scrapes against the pavement during a slide. While seemingly minor, road rash can be serious. Depending on the severity, treatment may involve wound cleaning, pain medication, debridement (removal of dead tissue), skin grafts, or surgery. Healing times vary but can range from weeks for mild abrasions to months for severe cases. Scarring is also a possibility.
- Bone Fractures: Motorcycle accidents frequently cause fractures due to the impact and lack of protection for riders. Common fractures include those in the legs (femurs, tibias, fibulas), arms (radius, ulna), hands, wrists, ankles, ribs, and face (jaw, nose). Treatment depends on the type and severity of the fracture, and may involve casts, braces, or surgery. Recovery times can range from several weeks to a year or longer, depending on the bone fractured and the complexity of the break.
- Head and Neck Injuries: Due to the lack of a helmet or proper head protection, head and neck injuries are a significant concern for motorcyclists. These injuries can range from mild concussions to life-threatening traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Whiplash, a soft tissue injury to the neck, is also common. It’s crucial to seek medical attention for any head injury, even a seemingly minor bump or bruise. A doctor can assess the severity of the injury and recommend appropriate treatment, which may include medication, physical therapy, or cognitive rehabilitation.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Spinal cord injuries are some of the most devastating consequences of a motorcycle accident. These injuries can cause partial or complete paralysis, depending on the location and severity of the damage. Immediate medical attention is critical to minimize potential damage. Spinal cord injuries often require extensive medical care, rehabilitation, and long-term support.
- Internal Organ Damage: Blunt force trauma from a motorcycle accident can damage internal organs, such as the spleen, liver, or kidneys. Internal bleeding can be life-threatening and may not present immediate symptoms, so it is critical to be evaluated by medical professionals after any accident.
Remember, this list is not exhaustive. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, it’s important to see a doctor to ensure a proper diagnosis and treatment plan, regardless of the severity of your injuries.
What Compensation Can I Recover in a Lutz Motorcycle Accident Claim?
The amount of compensation you may be entitled to under Florida law will depend on the specific facts and circumstances of your case. Lutz accident attorney Tania L Rivas has helped people injured in motorcycle accidents recover compensation for:
- Past and future lost wages
- Past and future medical expenses
- Loss of future earning capacity
- Property damage
- Reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses
- Past and future pain and suffering
What does all this top-notch legal representation cost you? Tania L. Rivas handles motorcycle accidents and other personal injury cases on a contingency basis. There are no up-front costs if we accept your case, and we only collect our fee after we’ve won your case.
Single Motorcycle Accidents Not Always Rider’s Fault
Unlike motorcycle accidents involving other vehicles, single motorcycle accidents are usually the fault of the rider. Speeding and driving under the influence are the leading causes of single motorcycle accidents. There are instances, however, in which the rider is not to blame in a single motorcycle accident.
Accidents caused by defective parts, improper road maintenance and road debris can result in serious injuries. These can be tough cases to prove and require the attention of a Lutz motorcycle accident attorney with the expertise and dedication to discover the real causes of the accident and establish who is responsible.
Motorcycle Accident Wrongful Death — You Don’t Have to Do It Alone
Lutz motorcycle accident attorney Tania L. Rivas has seen first-hand the devastating effects the death of a loved one in a motorcycle accident can have on their surviving family members. Families often suffer severe economic hardship following the sudden death of a parent or spouse in such a traumatic way. We are here to help. We will put our expertise to work recovering a settlement that assists the family with the financial hardships they are facing.
How a Lutz Motorcycle Accident Attorney Can Help
Tania L. Rivas and Rivas Law Group have the skills, knowledge and resources to gather the crucial evidence needed to establish proof as to who was actually at fault in your accident. We will examine your medical records and bills and consult with experts to determine the exact amount of compensation you will require for the damages caused by your accident. This information is invaluable when it comes to negotiating with the insurance companies.
We have a reputation with the insurance companies – they know we mean business and won’t back off until we get our clients the compensation they are due. They know if we don’t reach a settlement that satisfies your needs, then we will relentlessly argue your case in front of a judge and jury.
Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Accidents in Lutz
What are the Most Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Florida?
In most motorcycle/auto crashes, the automobile is at fault. It is easy for drivers to get distracted or not to simply not see motorcycles, which can lead to accidents caused by:
• Making a turn in front of an oncoming motorcycle
• Failing to check blind spots
• Failing to signal when changing lanes
• Running red lights or stop signs
A few more causes of accidents that don’t always involve other vehicles are:
• Rider error
• Mechanical failures
• Environmental factors
• Road hazards
What is the Process for Filing a Motorcycle Accident Injury Claim?
The process for filing a personal injury claim can seem daunting, especially when you are dealing injuries, and financial responsibilities are piling up. Rivas Law Group is here to help guide you through the process.
The first thing you should do to best help your claim is to gather as much evidence at the scene as possible. Take pictures of your motorcycle, the other vehicle, and the whole scene. Write down your recollection of the accident so that you don’t forget any details later. Talk to potential witnesses and get their contact info.
Make sure you seek medical attention for your injuries and keep meticulous records of all your medical reports and receipts.
Next, you should hire an experienced personal injury. It can be difficult coming up with an amount for damages that accurately reflects your past and future costs. An attorney with experience negotiating and litigating motorcycle claims can help you with this.
If negotiations fail to produce an acceptable settlement, you may need to go to trial.
How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident lawsuit in Florida?
The statute of limitations for filing a motorcycle accident lawsuit in Florida is two years from the date of the accident. If you don’t file your lawsuit within that time frame, you will likely be barred from doing so.
This may seem like a long time, but it is important to remember that investigating and building a strong case takes time. The sooner you hire an attorney, the better.
How does comparative negligence affect a Lutz motorcycle accident case?
Florida is a comparative negligence state, which means that if you are found to be even partially at fault for your accident, it can reduce the number of damages you are able to recover.
For example, if you are awarded $100,000 in damages but found to be 20% at fault, you would only be able to recover $80,000. If you are found to be more than 50% at fault, you will not be able to recover any damages.
This is why it is so important to have an experienced attorney on your side who can help establish that the other party was at fault for your accident.
Speak with Experienced Lutz Motorcycle Accident Attorney Tania L Rivas
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a motorcycle accident in Lutz, Lakeland, Winter Haven or the surrounding communities, don’t hesitate to get legal representation to protect your rights. Injuries from even “minor” motorcycle accidents can lead to mountains of medical bills, expensive, ongoing medical treatment and therapy, along with loss of earning capacity.
Contact Rivas Law Group today at (877) 299-5539 to arrange for a free initial consultation. We will sit down and discuss the details in your case — in English or Spanish – help you understand your legal options and offer professional guidance on how to proceed with your case. We also serve victims of Lakeland motorcycle accidents.
