Florida’s highways and year-round temperate climate make it a popular area for motorcyclists. But with this also comes the fact that Florida records the highest number of motorcycle accidents in the US. Each year, hundreds of motorcyclists in Florida succumb to fatal crushes.
The Highway Traffic Safety Administration says Florida records the most number of motorcycle deaths compared to other states in the US. A 2010 report on motorcycle accident statistics in Florida reports the following:
- 19% of all motorcyclists killed in fatal crashes were aged between 25 to 34 years old.
- Motorcyclists aged 65 years and older accounted for 6% of all motorcycle fatalities.
- About 92% of all motorcycle drivers killed were men, with only 8% of these being female.
- Speed played a considerable role in most fatal motorcycle accidents.
Liability for your motorcycle accident
In Florida, financial liability is proportionate to the level of fault. After a motorcycle accident, you are responsible for proving that you are not to blame for the accident and get fair compensation for your injuries. Knowing what to do immediately after a motorcycle accident is essential.
The aftermath of a motorcycle crash can be frustrating and costly and may lead to severe injury or disability. What you do after the accident can significantly influence how the accident will impact you. Here is what to do:
Get to safety
If you are in the roadway but can still move, get to the side of the road to avoid being struck again. Check to see if anyone else involved in the accident was injured and help them to get out of harm’s way.
Get medical help
After a motorcycle accident, your #1 priority is to get medical help. Check yourself and others for injuries. If anyone is injured, call 911. Note that rarely do motorcycle riders involved in a motor vehicle accident walk away without some damage. Also, some serious injuries are not readily identifiable.
Internal bleeding or brain injuries may not be apparent or show symptoms until some time has passed. Other than getting treatment, medical reports can prove helpful when seeking compensation. The most common motorcycle accident injuries include:
- Head trauma and traumatic brain injuries: – These injuries often change the life and future of the motorcyclist involved in the accident and their family members.
- Concussions: These injuries are less severe compared to traumatic brain injuries. However, they can be life-threatening. Symptoms may include loss of coordination, difficulty walking, memory loss, blurred vision, unusual exhaustion, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting.
- Spinal cord injuries and bone fractures: During a motorcycle accident, it is not uncommon for the victim to damage their spinal cord, knees, ankles, calves, and feet. While most of these injuries are not fatal, they are disabling.
- Severe road rash, burns, and disfigurement: Perhaps the first motorcycle injury that comes to mind because of the nature of the rider sliding across the pavement. Motorcycle riders need protective gear like a leather riding jacket, boots, gloves, and pants.
Call the police
This is only necessary for instances where 911 or other emergency services were not contacted. In such a case, you need to call local law enforcement. The police will help control traffic, record details of the accident, and determine whether immediate legal action is necessary.
Gather evidence
This is vital to prove your case. Take clear photos of the vehicle involved in the accident before it is moved. Also, take pictures of the damage to all vehicles involved. This information will help to identify the events that led to the accident.
Identify potential witnesses
While most drivers involved in motorcycle crashes own up to their responsibility, it is not uncommon for them to plead not guilty later on. Don’t also rely on law enforcement officers as they may not document any useful information or evidence that could help with your case.
The best thing is to gather witnesses at the scene. If possible, get the names, phone numbers, and addresses of any witnesses. Also, take the investigating law enforcement officer’s name, badge number, and agency. Lastly, try to get the contact and insurance information of the other drivers involved in the accident.
Try not to speak too much
The last thing you want after a Florida motorcycle accident is to admit fault, especially if the accident’s circumstances are unclear. Do not even admit that you may have played a minor role in causing the accident. Such information may jeopardize your right to personal injury compensation.
Notify your insurance company as soon as possible
Do not be deceived into not calling the insurance company. It is common for the driver at fault to try to persuade you not to contact the insurance company. They might even offer to cover your costs upfront for not calling their insurer. Do not do this, and here is why.
For starters, you could be much more injured than you thought. In such a case, you can suffer hundreds of dollars in medical bills, which the other driver may not afford to pay.. Secondly, the driver might not be trustworthy and do as they promised.
If you are insured, notify your insurance company of the accident in the shortest time possible. They might try to deny your claim if you do not do this.
Do I need motorcycle accident lawyers to make a motorcycle accident claim?
Technically, you do not need a lawyer to make a claim. However, it may be beneficial for you to hire a qualified personal injury attorney. Most Florida motorcycle accidents lead to physical disabilities and expensive losses. Plus, you cannot count on any insurance to get you the compensation you deserve. A lawyer will help you understand your rights and gather the necessary evidence to prove your case.
Have you suffered damage from a motorcycle accident?
The team at Alpizar Law has been helping Florida motorcyclists get the justice they deserve. We are equipped to pursue monetary compensation for:
- medical bills
- Lost income
- Pain and suffering
- Reduced earning potential
- Disability
- Emotional distress
- Psychological trauma
- permanent physical limitations
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, our goal is to get you a settlement that fully compensates you for your injuries. Contact us at https://alpizarlaw.com/contact/ or call 321-676-2511 to set up a free consultation today.
