Motorcycle accidents are complicated cases, and they often end in disaster. Even though motorcycles may be fun to ride, they offer little protection for the riders when they are involved in an accident, which means that riders tend to suffer serious and fatal injuries.
If you have suffered injuries as a result of being involved in a motorcycle accident in Sarasota County, then you are entitled to make a claim for compensation. However, to increase your chances of achieving a reasonable outcome, you will need to speak to a Sarasota motorcycle accident lawyer at The Law Place today.
The Law Place has over seventy-five years of collective experience when it comes to fighting cases of motorcycle accidents, car accidents, truck accidents, and more with great success. We have a dedicated team of Sarasota motorcycle accident lawyers who work tirelessly on each and every case that is presented to them. We take pride in representing motorcyclists in Sarasota and all over the State of Florida who has suffered injuries due to the negligence of other drivers.
A motorcycle accident attorney from The Law Place will fight hard to preserve your rights, and we will take care of every aspect of your personal injury claim while you are on your road to recovery. Our law firm has the necessary experience and knowledge to handle your case with skill and efficiency. If you put your faith and trust in us, rest assured that we will work hard to win the compensation that you deserve.
Call The Law Place today to schedule a free consultation, in which a motorcycle accident attorney will explain the process to you and answer all of your questions.
Contact us now on (941) 444-4444, and we will fight your motorcycle accident together in Sarasota County.
Why Are Motorcycle Claims More Complicated?
It is common for motorcycle accidents to become very complex due to the fact that motorcycle crashes tend to cause far more serious injuries compared to any other types of motor vehicle accidents. Liability is strongly contested in most motorcycle accident claims across the State of Florida.
Resolving a claim for compensation is not always a simple procedure. A rider who has been injured in a motorcycle accident can quickly accumulate a large pile of medical bills depending on the extent of their injuries. Furthermore, severe injuries can potentially result in a long road to recovery, which means that settling on a compensation amount will be a long process.
There are many situations where the insurance company of the other driver who was involved in a motorcycle accident will contest liability by stating that the rider of the motorcycle was at fault for the crash. This may seem intimidating, but the good news is that you can hire a Sarasota motorcycle accident lawyer to manage your case. Our team of motorcycle accident lawyers does not let insurance companies get away with using unfair tactics.
What You Need to Know About Proving Fault for a Florida Motorcycle Crash
In order to make a claim for compensation, you must be able to prove that the other driver caused the accident. This could be determined by the fact that the other driver caused the accident by speeding or failing to stop at a red light, which is considered a violation of traffic law in the State of Florida.
In some cases, it might be worth hiring an accident reconstruction professional who is skilled at figuring out how accidents occur and determining who was responsible for causing the Sarasota motorcycle accident.
The Law Place has a multitude of resources to fully investigate your case and figure out who was at fault for the accident with skill and efficiency.
What Damages Can I Collect For A Motorcycle Accident?
What Damages Can I Collect for a Motorcycle Accident?
There are two different categories of compensation for damages that are available for those who have suffered injuries in a motorcycle accident: economic damages and non-economic damages.
Economic Damages
- Medical bills – This includes expenses for hospital stays, visits to the doctor, surgery, therapy, prescription medication, medical equipment, etc.
- Loss of income – This includes a loss of income due to being unable to work due to your injuries or if your injuries prevent you from working. In this case, you might be entitled to compensation for the difference in your income following your Sarasota motorcycle accident.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are usually not easy to calculate when compared to economic damages, which are calculated by referencing invoices or bills.
- Pain and suffering – This includes physical suffering, mental distress, and trauma caused by injuries or their aftermath, which prevent you from completing daily activities or continuing your life as normal.
- Loss of companionship – This includes compensation for your partner or family if you are killed in a motorcycle accident that results in your death.
You might also be able to make a claim for compensation for property damage, which includes the costs to replace or repair your motorcycle and any other property damage that may have occurred in the accident, such as your helmet, gear, or your clothes.
In the event that a family member was killed in a motorcycle accident, then you might be able to make a compensation claim for wrongful death. This will compensate the family of the motorcycle rider for their loss.
How Is Pain and Suffering Calculated in a Motorcycle Accident Case?
How Is Pain and Suffering Calculated in a Motorcycle Accident Case?
Pain and suffering are difficult to quantify, and an attorney will understand how to best handle your case for maximum compensation. One common method used is taking the cost of your medical bills and multiplying them by a number that represents the degree of your suffering. If you are left with permi9nant injuries, then this number could be as high as 5.
What Should I do at The Scene of a Motorcycle Accident?
What Should I Do at the Scene of a Motorcycle Accident?
If you were involved in a Sarasota motorcycle accident, then you must follow these steps following the accident to protect your legal rights and give yourself the best chance of making a successful compensation claim in the State of Florida.
You should take these steps when you are involved in a motorcycle accident:
- Check yourself and everyone else involved in the accident to see if you or they need immediate medical attention.
- Use your phone to contact 911 and call the police and emergency medical services to the scene.
- Seek medical treatment as soon as possible, even if you think that you did not suffer any serious injuries in the accident. It is possible for some injuries to take days or even weeks to reveal symptoms, which is why it is always best to seek medical treatment quickly to prevent anything serious from showing up later.
- Collect the necessary information, such as the insurance information of everyone involved in the motorcycle accident.
- Gather the contact information of any witnesses to the motorcycle accident.
- Take photographs of the accident area, such as the conditions of the road, damage to vehicles, and anything else that is relevant.
- Try to avoid apologizing or making statements such as ‘I didn’t see the other vehicle’ or ‘I was driving too fast to the police officers or insurance representatives, as this can be seen as an admission of guilt.
- Write down your recollection of the accident as soon as possible, preferably when you have recovered from the shock following your motorcycle accident.
- Seek legal representation by getting in touch with a Sarasota motorcycle accident lawyer from The Law Place immediately.
What Should I do in The Days Following a Motorcycle Accident?
What Should I Do in the Days Following a Motorcycle Accident?
In the following days, you should prioritize your health. At the same time, you should keep track of any expenses that you incur. You should also keep a journal detailing any difficulties you are experiencing.
Where Do Most Motorcycle Accidents Happen?
Where Do Most Motorcycle Accidents Happen?
The most commonplace for motorcycle accidents to occur is on intersections as a result of left-turning cars and rear-end accidents.
Crashes on freeways and interstates are also frequent because of the increased traffic and speed. If a car suddenly changes lanes without seeing a motorcyclist, it can lead to serious injuries.
Another common location is two-way highways and roads. As a motorcyclist comes round a bend, a driver could hit them straight on.
How Motorcycle Accidents Are Different Than Car Accidents
How Motorcycle Accidents Are Different Than Car Accidents
Motorcycle accidents tend to be more serious as motorcyclists have less protection and are therefore more likely to have severe injuries.
Tips for Dealing with Insurance Companies After a Motorcycle Collision
Most of the time, insurance companies are always looking to reduce the amount of money for a payout following a motorcycle accident in the State of Florida. It is important to keep in mind that insurance companies are not looking out for your best interests – their only motive is to make as much money out of you as possible.
If you wish to protect your best interests, then you must hire a skilled lawyer fast to deal with your insurance company on your behalf. However, if you are dealing with your insurance company on your own following a Sarasota motorcycle accident, then make sure you remember that:
- You do not have to discuss anything with your insurance company – Many insurance adjusters will try to get you to make a statement about the accident that they can use against you later to prove that you were partly responsible. It is not uncommon for an insurance adjuster to tell you that they need a statement from you to start the process of a claim. This is not true. You are under no obligation to discuss any details of the accident with your insurance company. It is worth hiring a skilled lawyer to represent you, handle the case, and speak to your insurance company on your behalf.
- Do not sign any papers until they have been reviewed by a lawyer – Many insurance companies will try to pressure you into signing documents under the pretense of them needing your signature before they can process your claim. However, these types of documents tend to contain provisions that waive your legal rights. That is why it is imperative that you hire a lawyer to review your case before you sign anything.
- Do not accept the first settlement offer – Insurance companies are always searching for a way to reduce the amount of money that they must pay out for anyone involved in an accident. That is why the first settlement offer that you will receive from them is usually not the best offer. Therefore, you will need a lawyer from The Law Place to discuss the case with them and agree on a reasonable settlement agreement. This settlement should include compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and any other damages that may have incurred following the Sarasota motorcycle accident.
Will My Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Deal With The Insurance Companies For Me?
Will My Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Deal with the Insurance Companies for Me?
Yes, once you agree to representation, your car accident lawyer can deal with car insurance companies on your behalf.
What Causes Motorcycle Accidents in Florida?
There are many causes of motorcycle accidents in the State of Florida, but it usually comes down to the negligent actions of other drivers. It is always important to see the accident crash report written by law enforcement, as it may be crucial in discovering the cause and resolving a claim for compensation.
Here are some of the most common causes of Sarasota motorcycle accidents:
- Distracted driving – There are numerous distractions that can be the cause of accidents on the road in the State of Florida. One of the most common distractions is drivers using mobile phones behind the wheel or talking to another passenger in the car.
- Tailgating – This is when a car follows closely behind another vehicle on the road creating a higher risk of a crash. It is not uncommon for motorcyclists to be put at more serious risk of injury in short-distance collisions.
- Driver fatigue – There are drivers who tend to travel long distances throughout the State of Florida for either work or leisure purposes. However, it can quickly cause fatigue in many drivers, which slows down reaction times and creates a higher risk of a crash occurring.
- Intoxicated driving – There are many laws on drunk driving, which include the legal limit of alcohol a driver can consume while behind the wheel in the State of Florida. It is possible for an intoxicated driver to cause an accident even without reaching the legal limit of alcohol consumption due to their impaired vision and slow reaction times. This also includes controlled substances, prescription medication, and illegal street drugs.
- Hazardous weather conditions – The weather affects many driver’s abilities to travel on the road, which is why every driver must be ready to adapt to the changing weather conditions. This includes using proper signaling and reducing speed as a safety precaution. However, if all drivers do not drive mindfully through hazardous weather conditions, then there is a high risk of an accident occurring – especially with a motorcyclist, who has less protection against the dangers of weather.
- Sudden stops – All drivers are expected to drive safely and in accordance with the law in the State of Florida, which includes avoiding sudden stops that can cause serious traffic disruptions on the road. Sudden stops are even more dangerous for motorcyclists, as a collision might occur between two cars that could result in the motorcyclist being thrown from their vehicle.
- Improper lane change – Another hazard on the road for motorcyclists is when an improper lane change takes place in the State of Florida. This can occur when a driver does not properly check their mirrors or their blind spots before changing lanes, as it can cause them to miss a smaller vehicle on the road, like a motorcycle.
Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents
A motorcycle rider is much more exposed to danger and susceptible to all kinds of injuries compared to a driver in a car. Some of the most common injuries that motorcycle riders suffer in accidents include:
- Road rash – Abrasions, contusions, and burns on the skin that are caused when a motorcycle rider skims across the pavement after being knocked off their motorcycle in a crash.
- Soft tissue or joint injuries – Strains and tears of muscles, ligaments, and tendons, which include joint areas that are susceptible to hyperextension.
- Bone fractures – Arm, shoulder, wrist, rib, leg, ankle, foot, and skull fractures, etc.
- Internal injuries – Bruising, perforation, and bleeding of internal tissues and organs.
- Spinal cord injuries – Fractured vertebrae and spinal cord injuries, which can result in temporary or permanent paralysis.
- Amputations – Fingers, hands, arms, legs, and feet can get crushed in a motorcycle accident, which may lead to amputation.
- Traumatic brain injuries – Damage to the brain, which can cause injuries such as a concussion, brain bleed, or could even result in a coma.
Types of Motorcycle Accidents
A motorcycle accident tends to be much more dangerous compared to a car accident due to the force of another motor vehicle hitting the motorcycle. There is also no buffer between the motorcycle rider and the hard concrete of the road. Injuries such as traumatic brain damage, spinal cord injuries, fractures, amputations, and paralysis, or even death can occur following a motorcycle accident.
In order to win compensation for damages in a motorcycle accident, you will need to hire a skilled lawyer to prove the negligence of the other driver involved in the crash. A lawyer from The Law Place will be able to help you prove the negligence of the other driver and determine the amount of compensation that you are owed.
- Motorcycle accidents involving drunk driving – A drunk driving accident can cause serious injuries and fatalities. Someone who drives their car or truck while under the influence of alcohol or drugs is a danger to everyone on the road, especially motorcyclists. A driver can be charged with the criminal charge of driving under the influence (DUI) and still be ordered to pay damages in a civil court personal injury claim or even a wrongful death lawsuit for a drunk driving motorcycle accident.
- Motorcycle accidents involving fatal accidents – Florida Statute 768.21 states that you can recover damages by filing a wrongful death lawsuit in the event that a loved one died in a motorcycle accident. A skilled lawyer from The Law Place might be able to recover damages, including funeral expenses, pain and suffering, and medical bills.
- Motorcycle accidents involving head injuries – There are severe lifelong consequences for motorcycle accidents involving head injuries, which range from traumatic brain injuries to skull fractures. In serious cases, a head injury can potentially result in you being unable to work again and requiring constant medical treatment. Motorcyclists who are over the age of 21 and carry up to $10,000 of medical insurance coverage are not required to wear a helmet according to the law in the State of Florida. However, it is always better to wear a helmet for your safety and everyone else’s safety too. If you decide not to wear a helmet, then the rule of comparative negligence might be able to reduce your compensation in the State of Florida.
- Motorcycle accidents involving back and neck injuries – Back and neck injuries can be very serious, as you might be left unable to work due to harm to your spine. Many people involved in a motorcycle accident might not have enough money saved to pay for physical therapy or rehabilitation. This is why you must recruit a skilled lawyer to fight for your rights and negotiate with an insurance adjuster. It is not uncommon for insurance adjusters to search for ways to blame the motorcyclist for the accident in order to avoid liability. The good news is that a skilled lawyer from The Law Place will know how to counter their arguments.
- Motorcycle accidents involving knee and shoulder injuries – Motorcycle riders have the same legal rights as the drivers of other vehicles. However, there are plenty of drivers on the Florida roadways who fail to yield or violate other traffic laws. The size of a motorcycle is quite small, and it can be difficult to spot other drivers who are sharing the road. Knee and shoulder injuries can have a serious impact on your life, ability to work, or enjoyment of your usual activities. It is possible that you might have to undergo surgery due to suffering injuries in a motorcycle accident. However, you can recover compensation for these expenses by filing a lawsuit against the driver who is responsible for causing the accident.
- Motorcycle accidents involving road rash and burns – A road rash or burn usually occurs when a motorcycle rider is thrown off their motorcycle in a crash and slides across the pavement, which creates friction between their body and the road. Road rash or burns can happen even if a motorcycle rider is wearing motorcyclist gear or protective clothes. Even though most road rashes are minor cases, they can also be very serious. For example, a road rash can pull back the skin to show bones and muscles, which results in permanent disfigurement and severe scarring on the skin. In some cases, road rash and burns can even require surgery or skin grafts. A skilled lawyer will be able to recover the losses and expenses for surgery and disfigurement if you reach out to The Law Place today.
- Motorcycle accidents involving amputations – An amputation might occur when a limb is partially severed in an accident, and then it requires complete removal through surgery. In some cases, a limb might be severed between metal objects in an accident, or a limb might be seriously shattered and require amputation as a result. A skilled lawyer will be able to recover all damages in relation to an amputation, such as medical care, surgical costs, hospital bills, past and future lost wages, physical therapy, and more.
- Motorcycle accidents involving broken bones – A case of broken bones is not usually life-threatening, but it can lead to a long and painful recovery. In some cases, they might even result in long-term disabilities. Some riders involved in an accident, they might be left unable to work due to the broken bones that they sustained. The motorcycle accident lawyers at The Law Place have the necessary knowledge and experience when it comes to handling all types of cases. It is possible that an accident involving broken bones might require reconstructive surgery, which involves pins, plates, and rods. However, you will have the best chance of recovering the expenses of surgery and other damages by hiring one of our Sarasota motorcycle accident lawyers at The Law Place.
Should I Hire A Motorcycle Accident Lawyer For A Minor Accident?
Should I Hire a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer for a Minor Accident?
In Florida, you should have PIP coverage, which will cover your damages up to the limits of your policy, regardless of who was at fault. However, if your damages exceed your coverage or you feel that you are being treated unfairly, then you will still need a car accident lawyer.
Whatever the circumstances, you should call up for a free consultation at the very least. You will be armed with more information about how to handle your own case.
What Lawyer Deals with Motorcycle Accidents?
What Lawyer Deals with Motorcycle Accidents?
Personal injury lawyers that deal with car accident cases are also sometimes referred to as a car accident lawyer. All attorneys are lawyers, but not all lawyers are attorneys, as attorneys can assist people in court. Although we use these words interchangeably in this article, all of our attorneys are highly qualified and skilled.
It is natural to have lots of questions when you have been involved in a Sarasota motorcycle accident, and The Law Place is here to help answer all of your questions. We understand that you might be going through a difficult time following your accident, and we want to be the ones to assist you on your road to recovery.
Who Can Be Sued in a Motorcycle Accident Case?
Who Can Be Sued in a Motorcycle Accident Case?
Most of the time, the driver who is at fault for the accident will be held liable, and their insurance company will pay. If they are uninsured, then you might have uninsured motorist coverage, or you may be able to sue the driver personally. Sometimes other parties can also be sued, such as a manufacturer or someone responsible for the upkeep of the road.
If you have been seriously injured in a motorcycle accident due to the negligence of another driver, then you must discuss your legal rights with a Sarasota motorcycle accident lawyer from The Law Place before you get into a conversation with the insurance provider of the at-fault driver. It is worth keeping in mind that insurance providers are not your friends, and their main objective is to pressure you into accepting the cheapest personal injury claim possible. There is no need to worry, as The Law Place will fight for your rights and guide you through the legal system.
Can I Sue Someone Personally After A Motorcycle Accident?
Can I Sue Someone Personally After A Motorcycle Accident?
You have the legal right to take action against a driver who caused you damages. Usually, the damages will be covered by insurance companies; however, in some circumstances, you may be able to sue the driver personally. The laws are complex, and you should contact The Law Place and seek advice.
What Happens If The At-Fault Party Doesn’t Have Insurance?
What Happens if the At-Fault Party Doesn’t Have Insurance?
If your damages exceed your policy limits and you do not have uninsured motorist coverage, then it will be difficult to obtain compensation. Sometimes it is possible to sue the at-fault driver personally, but this is dependent on how much wealth they have.
A lawyer will work out if there is another party involved who may be liable, such as if there was a damaged road, in which case a government entity could be found liable. Contact us today to find out if we can help.
How Much Should You Settle For After a Motorcycle Accident?
How Much Should You Settle for After a Motorcycle Accident?
The amount of compensation that you will receive following a motorcycle accident will ultimately depend on the severity of your injuries and the financial burden on your shoulders. You should get in touch with a motorcycle accident lawyer to get a clearer picture of how much compensation you deserve after an accident.
You must keep in mind that your personal injury protection insurance (PIP) will provide the first amount of insurance coverage for your motorcycle accident in Sarasota County. In the event that your PIP coverage refuses to cover your costs and damages, even if you have not suffered injuries that exceed your coverage, you should seek legal counsel from a skilled lawyer at The Law Place. It is worth noting that your medical bills will likely make up most of your personal injury claim. A personal injury claim will cover the non-economic damages and economic damages associated with your Sarasota motorcycle accident.
Damages tend to include:
- Medical bills.
- Lost wages due to being unable to work.
- Pain and suffering.
A motorcycle accident lawyer will help determine your losses and help you claim back all of the bills related to your accident. In some cases, the cost of your injuries might exceed the amount of coverage that you have available for your injuries.
What Happens If the Medical Bills From My Motorcycle Accident Exceed the Coverage Offered by the Liable Driver’s Insurance Policy?
There are plenty of injuries that have the potential to lead to major medical expenses. It is possible that you might be paying for medical bills years after your Sarasota motorcycle accident, especially if you suffered life-threatening injuries. It is completely understandable that you might be concerned about how to pay for all of these costs. The other driver’s insurance will help you, but it might not be sufficient enough to cover all of your medical expenses.
There are a few options for you to consider in this situation:
- A skilled attorney can help to identify others who might have contributed to your injuries in the motorcycle accident – There are many cases where multiple individuals have contributed to causing motorcycle accidents, and they each share liability for the crash. A list of other individuals and parties might include the manufacturer of the vehicle involved in the crash, the driver’s employer, and the mechanic of the vehicle involved in the crash. A skilled motorcycle accident lawyer will be able to identify the parties who might have contributed to the crash and help you seek the compensation that you deserve for the injures that you sustained.
- Your medical insurance – It is important that you get in contact with your medical insurance company to understand the amount of coverage that you can expect to receive after a motorcycle accident that was caused by another driver. Your medical insurance company might ask that you use parts of the settlement that you receive to pay for your medical bills.
- Hospitals can assist with making a payment arrangement – Hospitals tend to work alongside patients when it comes to providing them with the best quality of care, regardless of their inability to make quick payments. It is worth contacting the hospital or the doctor who treated you to learn how they can help as you pay your medical bills and receive the necessary treatment for your injuries.
If I Did Not Wear A Helmet at the Time of My Accident and Suffered a Traumatic Brain Injury, Can I Still Pursue Compensation for My Injuries?
For riders over the age of 21, it is not necessary for you to wear a helmet while on your motorcycle, according to Florida law. However, you must be able to provide evidence that you have up to $10,000 in personal injury protection coverage (PIP).
You still hold the right to file a claim for compensation from the other driver who caused the accident, regardless of whether you were wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. However, it is always better to wear a helmet as it offers protection to your head and neck in the event of a crash. It is also worth noting that wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of having a serious head injury by up to 69% for a motorcycle accident, and it reduces the risk of death by up to 42%.
What Can I Do to Protect my Rights After a Motorcycle Accident?
What Can I Do to Protect My Rights After a Motorcycle Accident?
It is very important that you take the necessary measures to protect yourself when you are riding a motorcycle. This includes wearing protective gear, paying attention to other drivers on the road, and abiding by the traffic laws. If you have been involved in a Sarasota motorcycle accident, then you should also take steps to protect yourself financially after a crash.
- Do not admit guilt or take responsibility for the accident – It is not uncommon for police officers to approach you at the location of the crash or in the hospital and ask you questions about the accident. It is crucial that you do not say anything that might give the impression that you are accepting responsibility for the accident or are admitting fault. You should answer the police officer’s questions as honestly as you possibly can without accepting responsibility or admitting fault.
- Seek medical attention immediately – It is very important that you seek medical care as soon as possible after an accident as many symptoms might not reveal themselves until much later due to the adrenaline. By going to the hospital, you can identify the extent of your injuries, prevent yourself from experiencing worse injuries later, and make sure you’re able to provide clear evidence of your injuries for your claim. The last one is especially important if you wish to seek compensation for any medical costs. If you don’t visit the hospital, then your insurance company might try to claim that your injuries happened elsewhere to avoid paying for your damages.
- Follow your doctor’s orders – Your doctors and therapists will offer you recommendations and advice on your road to recovery. However, some patients might choose to ignore their advice and try to return to their normal lifestyle and activities. The failure to follow their recommendations could cause you to accidentally worsen your injuries and discredit your claim.
- Write down your experience and record your statements – Your memory of the accident could fade quickly, which is why it essential that you write down your version of events as soon as possible. Every little detail of the accident is necessary when you are filing a claim for compensation, and you will need to write your statement as clearly as you can.
- Contact a Sarasota motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible – It is very important that you get in touch with a skilled attorney following an accident. The Law Place can provide invaluable assistance and advice for your case, and our team of motorcycle accident lawyers will be at your side every step of the way. We will help you win the compensation that you deserve.
The Other Driver’s Insurance Company Contacted Me and Offered a Settlement a Few Days After My Accident. I Need the Money. Should I Accept the Offer?
We highly recommend that you reach out and speak to an experienced motorcycle accident attorney before you make any move or settle on any decision. It is not uncommon for insurance companies to try and reduce their financial liability by offering the lowest settlement offer. Their settlement offers will usually come fast after an accident has occurred when you have not had enough time to determine the amount of damage caused.
The Law Place is well-versed when it comes to dealing with insurance companies, and we know the kinds of tactics that they use. It is always better to consult with a personal injury lawyer before you agree on any kind of settlement. Rest assured that our law firm will fight to achieve the best possible outcome for your case in the State of Florida.
Should I File a Personal Injury Claim Immediately After My Motorcycle Accident?
Yes, in most cases, it is crucial for your case that you speak to a motorcycle accident attorney who can help you file your personal injury claim as soon as possible. In certain cases, an attorney might advise that you wait before filing your personal injury claim. There are a few reasons why this might happen, such as needing to seek medical treatment for your injuries and searching to find the most qualified representation for your case. If you suffered severe injuries, you might need time to heal before filing a claim.
Most serious injuries take between six months to a whole year before a doctor can even evaluate the kind of recovery you will make. If your injuries are long-term, then it will impact your medical bills and the total value of your claim.
How Long do I Have to File a Lawsuit After a Motorcycle Accident?
How long do i have to file a lawsuit after a Motorcycle accident?
According to Florida Statute 95.11, you have up to four years from the exact date the accident occurred to make a personal injury claim under the statute of limitations.
When Should You Get a Lawyer For a Motorcycle Accident?
When Should You Get a Lawyer for a Motorcycle Accident?
Although you have four years to make a claim, you should speak to a lawyer as soon as possible. Important evidence such as CCTV and witness statements may be unobtainable if you wait too long. You will have a stronger case the quicker you act.
How Long Does A Motorcycle Accident Claim Take To Settle?
How Long Does a Motorcycle Accident Claim Take to Settle?
The amount of time that it takes to make a personal injury claim and secure compensation following a motorcycle accident depends on the severity of the case. A personal injury lawyer will need to investigate your accident in order to get a clearer picture of the factors that may have contributed to causing your accident. If you have suffered severe injuries and your medical costs are high, then it can take a longer amount of time to settle your personal injury claim.
What Is The Average Settlement For A Motorcycle Accident?
What Is the Average Settlement for a Motorcycle Accident?
It’s difficult to say what the average settlement is for a motorcycle accident, as each case is unique. Your damages should, at the very least, cover all of your medical bills and property damage. If you want the maximum amount of compensation, then seek legal representation from The Law Place.
Do You Have To Go To Court For A Motorcycle Accident?
Do You Have to Go to Court for a Motorcycle Accident?
Most motorcycle accidents are mediated outside of court. Especially if liability is clear. However, if your case does go to court because a proper settlement cannot be agreed upon, then your attorney will have everything ready to face a judge and fight for justice.
Why Is It Easy to Be Injured on a Motorcycle?
Motorcycle riders are more exposed, and the vehicles do not have some of the main safety features that cars and trucks have. For instance, a car has airbags that absorb the initial shock of the impact.
It is also worth noting that drivers who are injured in a car accident tend to remain in the vehicle when an accident occurs. While a motorcyclist will fly off their vehicle, and there is nothing to stop them from sliding across the pavement.
Motorcycles tend to be more dangerous due to these factors:
- There are no seatbelts.
- There are no airbags.
- There are no doors.
- They are smaller than any other vehicle which could crash into them.
- They are harder to see, especially during the middle of the night.
- Many drivers tend to overlook or ignore the motorcyclists on the road.
- Many drivers tend to underestimate the speed of a motorcycle.
- Some drivers are disrespectful of motorcycle riders.
Can You Sue for Wrongful Death in a Motorcycle Accident Claim?
Can You Sue for Wrongful Death in a Motorcycle Accident Claim?
If a family member or a loved one was killed in a motorcycle accident, then you could be entitled to file a wrongful death lawsuit.
There are many motorcycle accident attorneys who are available to help the family of a deceased motorcyclist file a wrongful death lawsuit. This will cover:
- Funeral expenses, loss of benefits, loss of consortium.
- Surviving family members might be entitled to receive compensation for the wrongful death of their loved one.
When Do Motorcycle Headlights Need to Be Turned on?
It is necessary for a motorcycle’s headlights to be turned on at all times when riding the vehicle – this also includes during the day.
What Are Florida’s, Motorcycle Laws?
- Motorcyclists are fully entitled to the use of a lane on the road.
- No other motor vehicle is allowed to drive in a manner that deprives a motorcyclist of the full use of a lane on the road.
- Two motorcyclists are allowed to ride side by side in a single lane.
Who Investigates Motorcycle Accidents in Florida?
The local police department and the Florida Highway Patrol are hired to investigate motorcycle accidents in the State of Florida. It is very important to have a qualified legal representative who you can trust and work with closely.
Is It Worth Hiring A Motorcycle Accident Lawyer?
Is It Worth Hiring a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer?
If you are involved in a serious motorcycle accident, then you might be tempted to get it over and done with quickly so that you can move past the incident. However, being involved in a motorcycle accident is a very serious matter, and it can cause harmful repercussions down the line. To secure your future, you will need the assistance of a personal injury lawyer from The Law Place, who has the necessary experience and resources to pursue your personal injury claim with great success.
We have a dedicated team of motorcycle accident attorneys who will work closely with you and help you to understand the process of making a claim. Our top priority is to always make sure that the client is well-informed and that they aren’t being taken advantage of by insurance companies in the State of Florida. Our law firm will guide you through the legal system with skill and efficiency, and we will ensure that you receive the compensation that you deserve. We will assist you every step of the way when it comes to making a personal injury claim, which includes:
- Conducting a complete investigation of the accident.
- Calculating your damages.
- Gathering evidence and collecting documents.
- Preparing and building your accident claim.
- Determining who was at fault for the accident.
- Negotiating with insurance companies and their team of attorneys.
- Fighting to recover the amount of compensation that you deserve.
How Negligence Is Established in a Motorcycle Accident
How Negligence Is Established in a Motorcycle Accident
To claim the compensation, you must first prove negligence.
- The defendant owed you a duty of care – Any motorist has an automatic duty of care to keep those around them safe, the government has a duty to keep the roads safe, and car mechanics and manufacturers have a responsibility to ensure vehicles are safe.
- The defendant breached their duty – The duty of care was breached because someone did not do something they should have, acted recklessly, did not follow the rules of the road, or failed to act, i.e., failed to fix a car or a road.
- The breach caused your damages – Finally, you must prove that your damages, such as your medical bills and lost wages, were a direct result of the accident.
How Much Will it Cost to Hire a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer?
How Much Will It Cost to Hire a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer?
We work on a contingency basis, no win, no fee. Our fees will be calculated as a percentage of your settlement, and everything is monitored by The State Bar Association.
We pride ourselves on being upfront about cost, so you are not left with any surprises.
How Do I Find a Good Motorcycle Accident Lawyer?
How Do I Find a Good Motorcycle Accident Lawyer?
For the best shot at a positive outcome, you need a good lawyer. You should speak to a couple of different firms and ask to see things like qualifications, evidence of success in previous cases similar to yours, and positive do client testimony. That way, you can make an informed choice.
What Does a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Do?
What Does a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Do?
If you have suffered injuries as a result of being involved in a motorcycle accident in Sarasota, then you must seek qualified representation from a law firm like The Law Place.
The Law Place has over seventy-five years of combined experience and knowledge in fighting personal injury claims in Sarasota and across the State of Florida. We have a dedicated team of accident attorneys who have a comprehensive understanding of traffic laws and accidents ranging from cars, trucks, and motorcycles.
We empathize with your pain and suffering, and we want to make the process easier for you by handling your personal injury claim. Our law firm will get to work on your case by conducting an extensive investigation, collecting facts and evidence, negotiating with the insurance companies, and dealing with the necessary paperwork on your behalf while you are on the road to recovery.
Our law firm understands the pressure that you are under, and we believe that no one should have to deal with the aftermath of a Sarasota motorcycle accident alone. Our team of motorcycle accident lawyers will fight to win compensation for your medical costs, lost wages, pain, and suffering, the costs to replace or repair your motorcycle, or any other kinds of damages that occurred following your Sarasota motorcycle accident.
Contact The Law Place Today
Call The Law Place today to schedule a free consultation, where a motorcycle accident attorney will explain the process to you and answer all of your questions.
Contact us now on (941) 444-4444, and we will fight your motorcycle accident together in Sarasota County.