Tampa Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Florida is a state with some of the most avid motorcycle enthusiasts and has one of the highest numbers of registered motorcycle users on its highways. Unfortunately, Florida is also one of the most dangerous places in the United States to be a motorcycle rider and motorcycle accidents happen regularly in Tampa.

When a motorcyclist is involved in a collision, they don’t have the benefit of being surrounded by a steel frame, airbags, or other automobile safety features. Even worse, insurance companies often stereotype bikers as being reckless simply for riding a motorcycle.

If you or a loved one have suffered an injury while riding a motorcycle in Tampa, FL, you may need a Tampa motorcycle accident lawyer to represent you. At The Law Place in Florida, we have a wealth of experience in dealing with motorcycle injury cases. Let an experienced Tampa personal injury lawyer  from our law firm help you seek the compensation you deserve. Contact us today on 941-444-4444  for free legal advice.

The Law Place: Your Motorcycle Accident Advocates

The attorneys at The Law Place have a deep understanding of the challenges faced by motorcycle accident victims in Florida. For example, Darren Finebloom, a highly rated attorney with an impressive track record in personal injury cases, is committed to fighting for motorcyclists injured due to others’ negligence. With his experience in negotiating with insurance companies and representing clients in court, he is a formidable advocate for accident victims.

Additionally, David A. Haenel brings a unique perspective, having served as a prosecutor before dedicating his career to defense and personal injury law. Together, attorneys like Finebloom and Haenel offer motorcycle accident victims the aggressive representation they need to pursue fair compensation for their injuries. The Law Place team is ready to stand by your side and ensure your rights are protected after a motorcycle accident.

Motorcycle Accidents in Hillsborough County, 2023 Statistics & Insights

High-Risk Months for Motorcycle Accidents

With 63 accidents in March and 58 in October, these months have the highest frequency of motorcycle crashes. For motorcycle accident victims, this data underscores the importance of staying vigilant during peak riding months. Those injured during these times may face higher risks due to increased traffic and more frequent incidents.

July and December, with the fewest crashes, suggest a pattern of reduced motorcycle activity, potentially due to adverse weather or seasonal travel changes. A law firm can leverage these patterns to investigate how seasonal trends may influence case factors, such as road conditions or traffic density, relevant to a client’s accident.

Severe Fatality Rate Among Motorcyclists

Motorcycles make up a small share of vehicles on the road, yet 17% of all traffic fatalities in Hillsborough County involve motorcyclists. This alarming statistic speaks to the vulnerability of riders and the heightened risk of severe injury or death. A law firm can highlight this data to emphasize the need for comprehensive legal support to help victims and families seek maximum compensation for the devastating impacts these accidents often have.

Hillsborough County Leads the Region in Motorcycle Accidents

With 585 reported motorcycle accidents, Hillsborough County has more incidents than neighboring counties like Pinellas (420) and Orange (524). The combination of urban traffic density and popular riding routes creates unique risks for motorcyclists. Legal support is crucial in such high-traffic areas, where accident complexities can increase due to multiple vehicles and heavy congestion.

Consistent Accident Rates Highlight the Need for Strong Legal Advocacy

Motorcycle accident numbers in Hillsborough County have stabilized at around 580-600 per year since 2020, indicating an ongoing risk for riders. This steady rate of incidents points to a persistent need for legal services that address both immediate needs and long-term consequences of motorcycle crashes. By building strong cases rooted in local data, The Law Place effectively advocates for accident victims seeking compensation for medical bills, lost wages, and other damages.

Common Causes of a Tampa Motorcycle Accident

The most common cause of a Tampa motorcycle accident is straying from the lane of travel or disobeying right of way laws. More fatal motorcycle accidents occur because of a head-on collision than any other cause. That can include a head-on crash on a two-way road or a situation where one vehicle turns in front of the other without having the right of way.

Other common causes of motorcycle accidents in Tampa, Florida include:

• Poor weather conditions. Rain, road work debris, snow, or ice are among the most common.
• Failure to check blind spots.
• Door accidents such as when a driver opens their car door without checking for oncoming traffic they can impede a biker’s path of travel.
• Overcompensating the front brake, which is when the front of the motorcycle stops too hard, the rider’s momentum can quickly throw them over their handlebars.
• Lane splitting or white lining, including cutting between slower vehicles across lanes. This is extremely dangerous and often leads to disastrous results.
• Driving Under the Influence (DUI) . The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reports that the vast majority of fatal motorcycle accidents involve at least one driver with a blood alcohol content.
• Road imperfections, potholes, or roadworks.
• Speeding.
• Road rage.

As a motorcycle driver in Florida, you have every right to enjoy the road in a safe and carefree manner. This is why you may have the right to compensation if the motorcycle crash is caused by the negligence of someone else. The damages an attorney could win for you include lost wages and pain and suffering .

Motorcycle Helmets

Florida does not require motorcyclists over the age of 21 to wear helmets, so long as they have $10,000 in medical insurance coverage for crash injuries. Helmets may not protect a motorcyclist from every injury, but the lack of a helmet could leave a rider more susceptible to catastrophic injuries or even death.

What Should You Do After Being Involved in a Tampa Motorcycle Accident?

If you are involved in a motorcycle accident in Tampa, FL, here is what we advise you to do at the scene to protect yourself and others from further injury and to give you the best possible chance at a claim later down the line.

• Prioritize Your Safety and That of Everyone Involved – First things first, you need to make sure that you are safe. When that is done, you should try and make sure that everyone else involved is safe too. Move away from oncoming traffic, crashed cars, or any other obvious danger.
• Call Emergency Services – As soon as you have done everything possible to make everyone involved safe, then you call the Florida emergency services. Not only will they ensure everyone is safe, but they will also compile a police report, which will be useful to your motorcycle accident case later.
• Compile Evidence- As soon as you are able, take pictures of the crash scene, the vehicles involved, and any damages. You should also get the contact details for any witnesses as well as the details of the other driver. Get their address, name, phone number, insurance company details, etc. It is also a good idea to draw a sketch of how the accident happened. Draw the road and cars and the direction they were traveling.
• Contact a Tampa Personal Injury Lawyer – This is the best time to speak to your attorney. The sooner after the crash, the sooner they can begin to compile evidence on your behalf.

Some other things you should remember:

• Never Accept Liability at the Scene – Apart from making sure people are safe, do not talk about the accident. People may take what you say and twist it for their own needs. Lots of people end up missing out on the compensation they deserve because they apologize on the scene.
• Be Careful of What you Say to Any Insurance Companies After the Accident – Once again, they may try and get you to admit fault and lessen their liability. Speak to an attorney first.

Why You Should File a Florida Motorcycle Accident Personal Injury Claim

If the accident was not your fault, you should not be out of pocket for your damages or medical bills. The average cost for a visit to the trauma center for an injury after a Florida motorcycle accident is around $40,000 dollars.

When the accident isn’t your fault, this is a hefty sum to have to find. By speaking to a reputable Tampa personal injury attorney from our law firm, you can fight for compensation and avoid being left with medical and personal debts.

Injuries from an accident can stay hidden for weeks or even months, if you did not lodge a claim, to begin with, your chances of lodging one later on down the line are drastically reduced, so it is important that you contact us right away!

It is also important that those responsible are held accountable for their actions to help prevent accidents happening in the future. An attorney from our law firm can give you legal advice and tell you if you have a claim.

What Types of Damages May Be Claimed in a Tampa Motorcycle Accident Case?

There is a huge range of variables and different ways that you can claim following a Florida motorcycle accident. Some of the most common forms of damages a lawyer may fight for are:

• Property Damages – The most common and obvious form of damages you can claim for is for the cost of replacing or preparing your motorcycle after the accident.
• Medical Bills – Medical expenses may quickly add up quickly after a Florida motorcycle accident, and it is unfair that you have to pay them if the accident was due to the negligence of another party. You can claim for any paid medical bills as well as any future medical costs if you can prove that you will need long term medical help.
• Lost Wages – If the accident has led to you missing work if you have to take time off work for your injuries and if you are incapable of going back to work, all of this can be claimed for.
• Pain and Suffering- If you need financial assistance for any emotional or physical health issues, you can claim damages for these.
• Punitive Damages – Punitive damages are awarded for gross misconduct or when someone hurts you purposefully with intent.
• Wrongful Death – If someone you loved has been killed by the negligence of another party, you can seek damages for their death.

Motorcycle Accident Fatalities in Tampa

In 2023, Hillsborough County recorded 40 motorcycle accident fatalities, representing a substantial 16.9% of the county’s total 237 traffic-related fatalities. This high percentage is particularly striking given that motorcycles constitute a small fraction of the vehicles on Tampa’s roads. Despite their lower numbers, motorcycle riders face significantly higher risks in traffic accidents, underscoring the vulnerability of motorcyclists and the need for heightened awareness and safety measures for all road users in the Tampa area.

Is It Necessary to Hire a Florida Motorcycle Accident Lawyer?

No, it is not necessary, although it is highly recommended. When you are seeking a large payout from an insurance company, they will do everything within their power to devalue their claim or even refuse it outright. They will have strong, aggressive legal teams who know the intricacies of Florida law. This puts you at an immediate disadvantage.

By hiring a reputable Tampa personal injury lawyer, you instantly level the playing field. Your Florida motorcycle accident lawyer will have dealt with a number of cases just like yours and will know exactly how to handle the insurance companies of both parties.

Your Tampa motorcycle accident attorney will take over the fight for you, allowing you to sit back and focus on your recovery. They will do the paperwork, the negotiation, and will protect your interests.

Research has shown that 90% of cases where motorcycle accident lawyers were hired ended up with a payout, and on average, the payouts are 60% more than those who seek compensation on their own, although this also depends heavily on the case at hand.

The Process of Filing a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit

Filing a motorcycle accident lawsuit involves several crucial steps to ensure justice and fair compensation for the injuries and damages you’ve sustained. Here’s a breakdown of the process:

Step 1: Immediate Actions After the Accident

The process begins right at the accident scene. Gathering evidence is essential for building a strong case. If possible, take photos of the accident site, including damage to vehicles and any visible injuries. Collect witness statements and secure a copy of the police report, which will provide an official record of the incident.

Step 2: Seek Prompt Medical Attention

Seeking medical attention immediately after the accident is vital, even if your injuries seem minor. Not only does this ensure your health and safety, but it also creates important medical records documenting your injuries. These records will serve as critical evidence in your case, showing the extent of the injuries caused by the accident.

Step 3: Consult with an Experienced Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Once you’ve addressed your medical needs, the next step is to consult with a lawyer experienced in motorcycle accident cases, such as those found at The Law Place. An attorney will help you understand your legal rights and evaluate the feasibility of pursuing a lawsuit. During this consultation, your lawyer will review all available evidence, including your medical records, to assess the severity of your injuries and the impact on your life.

Step 4: Filing the Legal Complaint

Your lawyer will then file a complaint on your behalf. This legal document, submitted to the court, outlines the specifics of your case: the parties involved, the nature of your claims, and the damages you seek. The defendant will receive a copy of this complaint and will have an opportunity to respond to the allegations, either by accepting responsibility or disputing the claims.

Step 5: Discovery Phase

Following the filing, the discovery phase begins. During this period, both sides exchange information and gather further evidence. This can include depositions, where witnesses and experts are interviewed under oath, as well as requests for documents like additional medical records or the defendant’s driving history. Discovery is essential for building a thorough case.

Step 6: Settlement Negotiations

Throughout the discovery phase, settlement negotiations may occur. Many motorcycle accident lawsuits are resolved out of court, as both sides often prefer to avoid the unpredictability and costs associated with a trial. Your lawyer will negotiate with the defendant or their insurance company, working to secure a fair settlement that compensates you for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.

Step 7: Trial (if Necessary)

If a settlement cannot be reached, the case will proceed to trial. Here, both parties will present evidence and arguments before a judge or jury. Your lawyer will advocate on your behalf, aiming to establish the defendant’s liability and demonstrate the full impact of your injuries. The trial process can be complex, requiring a comprehensive and persuasive presentation.

Step 8: Award of Compensation

If the court rules in your favor, you will be awarded compensation. The amount awarded will depend on various factors, including the severity of your injuries, the impact on your quality of life, and the financial losses resulting from the accident. Your lawyer will ensure that the award reflects the full scope of your damages.

Each of these steps plays a vital role in the pursuit of justice and compensation for motorcycle accident victims, and a knowledgeable attorney will guide you through the process, providing support every step of the way.

Tampa Motorcycle Accident Lawyer FAQ

I Was Partly at Fault. Can I Still Claim?

In some motorcycle crash cases, a driver will blame the motorcyclist for causing the accident. This should not stop you from filing a claim against the driver. As of 2023, Florida files a modified comparative negligence standard in personal injury suits. This means that you can recover damages even if you are partly to blame for your injuries so long as you are less than 50% at fault. The amount of damages you can recover will be reduced in proportion to your percentage of fault.

What should Tampa motorcycle accident victims do immediately following a crash?

After a motorcycle crash, Tampa motorcycle accident victims should prioritize safety and seek medical attention. If possible, take photos of the accident scene, gather witness information, and make sure a police report is filed. Preserving evidence at the accident scene is essential for building a strong case with the help of an experienced motorcycle accident attorney.

What are some common motorcycle accident injuries?

Motorcycle crashes often result in serious injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries, fractures, road rash, spinal cord injuries, and internal injuries. Due to the lack of protection for motorcycle riders, these injuries can be severe and require long-term medical care. Experienced Tampa motorcycle accident attorneys can help victims pursue a motorcycle accident claim to cover these costs.

How does personal injury law apply to motorcycle crashes?

Personal injury law allows Tampa motorcycle accident victims to seek compensation for their injuries and damages. In Tampa, motorcycle riders may file a motorcycle accident claim to recover compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. Tampa motorcycle accident attorneys can guide victims through the legal process to maximize their compensation.

Can motorcycle crash victims recover compensation for damages?

Yes, motorcycle crash victims may recover compensation for damages including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney will help establish fault and demonstrate the extent of your losses.

What types of motor vehicle accidents do Tampa motorcycle accident attorneys handle?

Tampa motorcycle accident attorneys handle various motor vehicle accidents involving motorcycles, including collisions with other vehicles, hit-and-run accidents, and accidents caused by hazardous road conditions. Their goal is to advocate for the rights of motorcycle riders and help them navigate the complexities of personal injury law.

Resources for Tampa Motorcycle Accident Victims

If you’re a motorcycle accident victim in Tampa, there are local resources that can provide immediate assistance and support as you navigate the aftermath of a crash.

Medical Assistance

Tampa General Hospital: As a Level I trauma center, Tampa General Hospital is well-equipped to handle severe injuries often sustained in motorcycle accidents. Located at 1 Tampa General Circle, the hospital has specialized departments for emergency and trauma care.

• Contact – (813) 844-7000
• Website – Tampa General Hospital

Reporting and Legal Resources

• Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office – For accident reports or to follow up on investigations, you can contact the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office. They handle motor vehicle accident reports and can provide essential information for your case.
• Main Office Location – 2008 E. 8th Ave, Tampa, FL 33605
• Contact – (813) 247-8000
• Website – Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office

Tampa Police Department

If your accident occurred within Tampa city limits, the Tampa Police Department may have handled the incident. They provide accident reports and additional resources for accident victims.

• Location – 411 N. Franklin Street, Tampa, FL 33602
• Contact – (813) 276-3200
• Website – Tampa Police Department

Hillsborough County Courthouse

If your case involves a legal claim or lawsuit, the Hillsborough County Courthouse will be central to any proceedings. This is where court filings are made, and hearings are held for personal injury cases.

• Location – 800 E. Twiggs St, Tampa, FL 33602
• Contact – (813) 276-8100
• Website – Hillsborough County Clerk of Court

Community and Support Organizations

• Bikers Against Drunk Drivers (B.A.D.D.) – This organization supports motorcycle accident victims and advocates for safer roads by reducing impaired driving. They offer assistance and resources for riders in the Tampa area.
• Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) – For further assistance with accident reports or licensing information following a motorcycle accident, FLHSMV offers an array of resources.

Contact One of Our Tampa Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Today

Making sure that you have a motorcycle accident attorney on your side straight away could be the deciding factor in whether or not you receive compensation as the result of a Tampa motorcycle accident that isn’t your fault.

Here at The Law Place, we have over 75 years of combined experience in dealing with cases just like yours. We aren’t afraid to stand toe to toe with an insurance company, and we won’t back down, we will help you seek the compensation you rightfully deserve.

Call us on 941-444-4444  today. We are contactable 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and offer a free consultation with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer.