Kenneth City Motorcycle Accident Attorneys
It is extremely rare for a motorcyclist to walk away from an accident unscathed. More often than not, motorcycle accidents lead to injuries that are painful, disruptive to your life, and hard on your finances. Managing unexpected medical expenses is especially challenging if you’re unable to work due to your motorcycle accident injuries.
At Jones Law Group, we understand how stressful and complicated it can be to recover the compensation you need to get your life back on track. Our experienced attorneys will oversee all aspects of your case so that you can focus on your recovery.
Motorcycle Accident Statistics
Over 9,100 motorcycle accidents occured in Florida in 2018. Motorcycle accidents are far more dangerous for a biker than they are for a car operator. People travelling by motorcycle are 27 times more likely to die in a car crash than those travelling in standard vehicles. More than 80% of reported motorcycle accidents kill or injure the motorcyclist.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Left Turns – Motorcyclists who have the right of way are often hit by vehicle operators who are turning left in an intersection. Drivers often assume there is a break between two oncoming vehicles when there is actually a motorcycle in that space.
Bad Weather – When it rains, motor oil rises to the surface of the pavement. This makes roads slippery, and motorcyclists can quickly lose control of their bikes. Rain can also obscure drivers’ vision. They may not see motorcycles in time to brake or swerve out of the way.
Lange Changes – Too many drivers fail to check their blindspots before changing lanes. They risk striking a motorcycle they cannot see.
Speeding – Driving at excessive speeds contributes to many types of automobile accidents, and motorcycle accidents are no exception.
Open Doors – Motorcyclists sometimes run into car doors that they do not expect to be opened. This is common in parking lots.
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Road Rash – Colliding with a vehicle forcefully throws motorcyclists off of their bikes and on to the road. Contact with the pavement can tear through layers of the skin. Your skin’s reaction to road rash is similar to what happens when it suffers a burn. It can cause nerve damage and can even require an amputation if it goes deep enough. Road rash also leaves you vulnerable to infections.
Spinal Cord Injuries – Your back absorbs a tremendous amount of shock when you’re struck by a vehicle. The severity of the accident and the point of impact greatly influence what injuries will develop. You could suffer from pinched nerves, chronic pain throughout the body, paralysis, and a range of other conditions.
Head Injuries – Head injuries are one of the most serious conditions that result from motorcycle accidents. They often cause long-term physical and cognitive problems. Head injury patients may suffer from chronic headaches, spasms, hearing loss, and even paralysis. Cognitive impairments, such as memory loss and difficulty with learning new information, can compromise a motorcycle accident victim’s career and future opportunities.
Facial Injuries – Some facial injuries leave behind permanent scars. Even if they are just cosmetic, scars take a toll on your self esteem and may even affect you professionally if you work in a face-forward role. Other facial injuries do far more damage. For instance, debris from an accident that enters the eyes can impair your vision and potentially cause blindness.
Motorcycle Laws in Florida
Florida law requires all motorcycle operators under the age of 21 must wear appropriate headgear. This also applies to passengers who are younger than 21. However, bikers who are 21 and older do not have to wear a helmet if they have insurance that covers at least $10,000 in medical benefits.
It is illegal to carry a passenger on a motorcycle that isn’t designed to do so. Florida does allow motorcyclists to ride side by side, but no more than two can do so within a lane. Additionally, riding between lanes to beat the traffic is prohibited. Violating motorcycle laws may make you partially liable for a motorcycle accident, but that doesn’t necessarily mean you are not eligible for compensation. Your attorney can help you to discover what you are able to pursue.
Unfair Motorcycle Bias and How it Affects Cases
Due to unfair biases, motorcycle operators are often automatically presumed responsible for accidents. They have a reputation for driving too fast, weaving between lanes, and taking other unnecessary risks. The other driver’s insurance company will look for reasons to blame you. Or, if your case goes to trial, a jury may be influenced by the daredevil stereotype. Whether you’re facing an insurance company or a courtroom, your attorney can present compelling evidence to prove that you’re the victim and that the other driver was reckless.
What Compensation Can Be Recovered?
Various forms of compensation can be recovered after a motorcycle accident. Motorcycle accident victims typically recover medical expenses, lost wages, and money for property damage. Your attorney can also help you to recover compensation for your pain and suffering.
Contact an Experienced Motorcycle Accident Attorney
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact an experienced attorney at Jones Law Group. We will dedicate our resources to investigating your accident and holding the at-fault driver responsible for the damages. Our team will not rest until you’ve been fully compensated. For a free initial consultation, call us at 727-571-1333 or contact us online.