The Lawler Firm is renowned for its skill in personal injury law. As the founding partner, I have successfully represented numerous victims injured in motorcycle accidents caused by negligent drivers. My office works around-the-clock to protect your rights and provide the highest quality legal service for motorcyclists in Brandon, Tampa Bay, and other areas of Florida.
Motorcycles and Their Not-So-Free Riders
Motorcycles are a great way to enjoy Florida’s beautiful weather while feeling the power of an engine beneath you. Drivers envy the freedom of the open air as cyclists whiz past in heavy traffic. But according to the U.S. Department of Transportation, motorcyclists are also 25 times more likely to be injured in highway accidents. Nearly 5,000 riders are killed in traffic crashes each year. The National Highway Traffic Administration estimates that wearing a helmet reduces the likelihood of fatality by about 40 percent. Yet motorcycle use continues to grow at an inverse proportion to fatalities. Although fatalities have doubled in the last few years, more than 10 million motorcycles are registered in the United States alone. The popularity of motorcycles continues to grow as gas prices make them a more economical choice of transportation.
Motorcycle Accidents Caused by Negligence
According to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, more than half of motorcycle deaths involve at least one other vehicle. Nearly 45 percent of these crashes involve a car turning left while a motorcycle is trying to go straight, pass, or overtake the vehicle. Because they are less protected and visible to drivers, riders are especially vulnerable to injury and death on the road. Knowing this, most motorcyclists do their best to anticipate the moves of reckless drivers and avoid a collision. But other drivers often fail to return the courtesy, only seeing the rider when it is too late. Injured motorcycle riders can suffer severe lacerations, broken bones, head and spinal cord injuries, and even death. Negligent driving that causes motorcycle accidents often involves:
- DUI, inexperience, or impairment
- Driving on the wrong side of the road
- Ignoring posted traffic signs, speeding
- Intentionally hostile or reckless actions
- Poor weather, hazardous road conditions
- Failure to see cyclists due to glare or obstruction
- Failure to use a turn signal or keep a safe “buffer” zone
What To Do If You Are Injured In A Motorcycle Accident
If you are injured on the road, do not move if you feel pain. If it is possible to stand, move to a safe place, away from oncoming traffic. Assess your body and seek medical attention if there is any pain, bleeding, or discomfort. Even if you initially feel nothing, symptoms may occur weeks after the accident, requiring a visit to the physician. Always wear a helmet when riding a motorcycle, even for short distances. Failure to do so not only increases your likelihood of injury, but also limits your recovery of damages in a lawsuit. Florida law requires riders to wear helmets and limits compensation for certain injuries if it the lack of a helmet caused or aggravated the injury. Keep all documents related to the accident, including the driver’s information, police reports, witness lists, medical bills, and missed work. Because these claims are fact and time-sensitive, consult an experienced attorney who can perform a thorough evaluation of your case and finish all the legwork for you while you recover.
Negligent Motorists are Liable for Your Injury
Following a motorcycle accident, I can begin working on your claim at no cost to you. During your free consultation, you are at liberty to discuss all the facts of your particular case because these details may lead to helpful evidence or require further investigation on our part. I know it is impossible to cover all the details required to protect your rights. That is why I make every effort to put you first and advocate for your best interests with the driver, insurance agent, and other liable parties. Call now. (813) 413-8828. Free Consultation.