MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENTs

APOLLO BEACH MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT LAWYER

Motorcycle accidents can be devastating, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities. As a personal injury attorney in Florida, I'm committed to helping motorcycle accident victims and their families seek justice and compensation for their losses.

Recent Florida Motorcycle Accident Statistics

Florida consistently ranks among the states with the highest motorcycle fatality rates in the nation.  In 2022, there were 9,156 motorcycle crashes in Florida, resulting in 590 fatalities.  This represents a significant increase from previous years, with 8,649 accidents and 621 fatalities in 2021.

The trend of increasing motorcycle accidents is concerning.  From 2020 to 2022, the number of motorcycle crashes in Florida rose from 8,045 to 9,156.  While fatalities slightly decreased from 621 in 2021 to 590 in 2022, the overall trend shows a growing risk for motorcycles on Florida roads.  Although motorcycles account for only 1% of vehicle miles traveled in Florida, they represent nearly 17% of all traffic deaths in Florida over the past five years.

Common Causes of Florida Motorcycle Accidents

Understanding the causes of motorcycle accidents is crucial for prevention and legal proceedings.  Some of the most common causes include:

1. Speeding:  Excessive speed is a significant factor in many motorcycle crashes. In 2019, 33% of motorcycle riders killed in crashes were speeding.
2. Alcohol Impairment:  Alcohol use was a factor in 42% of fatal motorcycle accidents in 2019.  Nighttime crashes are particularly dangerous, with riders three times more likely to be alcohol-impaired than in daytime crashes.
3. Lack of Visibility:  About 50% of motorcycle accidents are due to poor visibility.  Motorcycles can easily disappear into a car’s blind spot, leading to collisions during lane changes or turns.
4. Dangerous Driving Practices:  Maneuvers like “lane splitting” are illegal in most states and can lead to serious accidents.
5. Distracted Driving:  Both motorcyclists and other drivers who text, eat, or use mobile devices while driving are at higher risk of causing accidents.
6. Poor Road Conditions:  Potholes, uneven surfaces, and debris on the road can be particularly hazardous for motorcyclists. 

Common Injuries Suffered by Motorcycle Accident Victims

Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries due to the lack of protection for riders.  Common injuries include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI):  Even with helmet use, traumatic brain injuries are a significant risk in any motorcycle accident.  A traumatic brain injury can range from a mild concussion to severe brain damage, often leading to long-term cognitive and physical impairments.
• Spinal Cord Injuries:  These can result in partial or complete paralysis.
• Broken Bones:  Particularly in the arms, legs, and ribs.
• Internal Injuries:  Damage to internal organs can occur due to the impact of the crash or contact with the roadway.
• Road Rash:  Severe skin abrasions from the roadway often result from a crash.
• Psychological Trauma:  PTSD, anxiety, and depression are common after serious accidents.

Steps to Take to Minimize the Risk of a Florida Motorcycle Accident and Injuries

Despite the inherent dangers associated with motorcycles, there are steps that you can take to minimize your risks when riding.  Here are five steps to help you prevent a motorcycle accident and injury in Florida.

1. Wear Proper Safety Gear:  Anytime you ride a motorcycle you should always wear proper safety gear.  This includes a DOT approved helmet, and clothing with protective padding. Goggles or a visor should also be worn to prevent debris from getting into your eyes and obstructing your vision.
2. Stay Visible at all Times:  It is always important that you drive with your headlight on and avoid other drivers’ blind spots. In addition, you should always use your directional or hand signals when turning, and avoid weaving in and out of traffic.
3. Drive the Speed Limit:  Motorcycles are fast, but that does not mean you have to drive fast.  Driving the speed limit will allow you the opportunity to see and avoid hazards that you may not otherwise see if you are speeding.   It can also help reduce the severity of any injury you may suffer in an accident.
4. Watch for Hazards:  Always drive defensively, so you can give yourself more time to anticipate and avoid road hazards.
5. Take a Safety or Advanced Riding Course:  These courses teach all types of maneuvers and tips to best control your motorcycle under the different circumstances you may face as a rider.  These courses can be taken multiple times and it is highly recommended to take them regularly to brush up on your riding skills.

What Damages Are Recoverable in a Florida Motorcycle Accident?

If you’ve been injured in a Florida motorcycle accident due to someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation for: 

• Medical Expenses:  Including current and future medical treatments, rehabilitation, and therapy. 
• Lost Wages:  Compensation for income lost due to the inability to work due to injury and potential loss of future earning capacity.
• Pain and Suffering:  For physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
• Property Damage:  Cost to repair the damage or replace your motorcycle and other damaged property.
• Wrongful Death:  If the accident resulted in a fatality, family members may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim. 

Why Should I Hire Jim The Lawyer, Accident & Injury Attorney, After a Motorcycle Accident in Apollo Beach, FL?

With 25 years of experience, Jim The Lawyer, Accident & Injury Attorney has handled many cases involving motorcycle accidents and injuries, and he has recovered millions of dollars on behalf of his clients. After a motorcycle accident, Jim The Lawyer, Accident & Injury Attorney will:

• Investigate and evaluate your accident
• Determine how it occurred
• Investigate liability
• Identify all parties involved who may share responsibility for the accident
• Collect crucial evidence such as surveillance video
• Hire Experts to assist in determining liability and loss valuation
• Assist in getting you the right medical treatment for your injury and claim
• Negotiate with the insurance company
• File a lawsuit to fight for you in court
• Represent you at trial

By choosing Jim The Lawyer, Accident & Injury Attorney, you partner with an attorney committed to fighting to achieve the best possible outcome for your case.  Contact us today for a free consultation.

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