Firm News

What Should You Do If You Are Injured in a Florida Motorcycle Accident?

With warm weather year-round and roads undamaged by the ravages of winter, the state of Florida seems like the ideal destination for motorcycle owners. In fact, Florida has the second-highest number of registered motorcyclists in the United States. Unfortunately, with all those drivers comes a higher risk of accidents. In 2016, Florida led the nation in motorcyclist fatalities. 

Being injured in a motorcycle accident can leave you reeling and faced with both insurance and medical bills. If you are involved in such an accident, you should get in touch with a qualified attorney as soon as possible to discuss your legal options. Here’s some helpful information to keep you safe on the road and prepare you for your next steps if you do find yourself involved in a motorcycle accident.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

While you can’t control the behavior of other drivers, it’s critical for you to stay alert and focused on the road, ready to recognize and avoid potential hazards. Unfortunately, some accidents are unavoidable, whether or not you see them coming. 

Here are just a few potential causes of motorcycle accidents: 

• Poor road conditions – These conditions can be caused by anything from rain to road work debris. 
• Distracted drivers – Unfortunately, some drivers use their cellphones when they shouldn’t, becoming distracted and posing a serious risk to others on the road. 
• Drunk drivers – Driving while intoxicated is already a serious offense, and for good reason. Impaired drivers are unable to focus properly on the road, potentially causing harm to a motorcyclist or themselves.
• Failure to check blindspots – When motorists fail to check their blindspot, they pose a risk to other drivers whenever they switch lanes or turn. 

It is imperative for motorcyclists to understand and follow all of the laws in the state of Florida that govern their vehicles. Knowing and obeying these laws can minimize the risks posed to motorcyclists out on the roads. Along with following the law, motorcyclists should utilize other safe driving habits such as wearing a helmet, avoiding other motorists’ blind spots, and wearing reflective clothing to make themselves more visible to other drivers. 

Types of Injuries From Motorcycle Accidents

Even if a motorcyclist follows the rules to the letter, accidents still happen, and injuries sustained from a motorcycle accident can be far worse than those sustained while in an enclosed vehicle. 

The following are just a few of the injuries a motorcyclist might suffer from in the event of an accident:

• Road rash
• Leg fractures
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Skull fractures
• Cuts and lacerations
• Spinal cord damage
• Internal organ damage
• Paralysis

These types of injuries require immediate medical attention and can be financially, emotionally, and physically devastating for the motorcyclist and their family. Not only will the medical bills quickly rack up, but many accident victims will be unable to work for a period of time, resulting in a loss of income. To recover damages from the accident and get back on your feet as quickly as possible, connect with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney at Friedman & Friedman.

What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident

After a motorcycle accident, you’ll need to act quickly in order to stay within the statute of limitations. In Florida, you have four years from the date of the accident to either file your claim or settle your case. Only in rare cases with extraordinary circumstances will a court hear your case after the four-year mark. In cases of wrongful death, where a family member is seeking justice for the death of a loved one in a motorcycle accident, the statute of limitations is only two years. 

The long-term repercussions of a motorcycle accident can extend beyond initial medical bills. Motorcyclists may face further financial difficulties due to loss of income or subsequent medical care, as well as a diminished quality of life, chronic pain from sustained injuries, and emotional stress. You need an attorney who can put you in the best possible position to recover from a motorcycle accident. Act quickly to find an attorney who can get you the compensation you deserve. 

You Can Count on Friedman & Friedman

If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, you need an experienced attorney to fight for you. The attorneys at Friedman & Friedman have successfully handled multiple motorcycle accident cases in Miami and throughout Florida, resulting in hundreds of millions of dollars in verdicts and settlements for our clients. We understand the emotional, physical, and financial damage accidents can put you through, which is why we will fight to get you the compensation you deserve. If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident, contact us today to discuss your options during a free consultation. 

-Marvin

Thu Sep 5, 9:25am