Florida Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycles are incredibly popular in Florida, with one motorcycle on the road for every 33 people. However, in a state like Florida, where drivers are known to have a reputation for being negligent, motorcyclists face tremendous risks each time they get on their bikes. At the South Florida motorcycle accident law firm of Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada, our aggressive personal injury attorneys are committed to seeking justice on behalf of injured motorcyclists. For over 40 years, Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada has been aggressively pursuing compensation on behalf of accident victims and knows what it takes to build a successful case.
Causes of Florida Motorcycle AccidentsDrivers are human and will make mistakes. So, it’s no surprise that anytime you get into a vehicle, you take on a certain amount of risk. However, for a few reasons, the risks confronting motorcyclists are much greater than other motorists.
Many motorcycle accidents occur for all the same reasons as other motor vehicle collisions, such as drunk driving, distracted driving and aggressive driving. However, perhaps the most common cause of Florida motorcycle accidents is another driver’s failure to see the motorcyclist.
Motorcycles are much smaller than cars, and even drivers who think they are paying attention to the road can miss a motorcycle in the next lane over. Drivers also have a difficult time assessing the speed of oncoming riders. This is why, for example, left-turn motorcycle accidents are so common.
Damages in a Motorcycle Accident LawsuitGiven the lack of protection that motorcycles offer to riders, injuries in a Florida motorcycle accident tend to be severe. You may find yourself in the hospital for days, weeks, or even longer. Once released, doctors may tell you that you need follow-up surgeries or lengthy courses of physical therapy. While you are recovering from your injuries, chances are that you will not be able to work. Of course, that will not stop the medical bills from coming in.
By bringing a motorcycle accident lawsuit, you may be able to recover significant compensation from the driver who caused the accident. In addition to the economic damages, such as medical bills, property damage, lost wages and decreased earning capacity, you can also request compensation for the non-economic damages you sustained in the accident, including:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Mental anguish
- Disfigurement
- Disability
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of companionship
Working with an experienced Florida motorcycle accident attorney is crucial to identifying the full extent of your damages so you are not left on the hook for another driver’s negligence.
Frequently Asked QuestionsCan I Still Recover for My Injuries if I Was Not Wearing a Helmet?
Yes, the fact that you were not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident will not prevent you from bringing a claim against the at-fault party. However, if they can prove that your injuries were caused in part due to the fact you were not wearing a helmet, the court may reduce your damages award.
How Long Do I Have to File a Florida Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit?
In any Florida personal injury case, including motorcycle accidents, you have four years from the date of the incident to file a claim. However, it is generally better to get started with your case sooner rather than later. The quicker you reach out to a South Florida motorcycle accident lawyer, the sooner they can get started investigating the accident, gather evidence, and negotiating with the insurance company.
Contact Our Knowledgeable South Florida Motorcycle Accident Lawyers for Immediate AssistanceIf you recently suffered serious injuries in a Florida motorcycle accident, reach out to the dedicated injury advocates at Friedman Rodman Frank & Estrada. We pride ourselves on providing each of our many clients with individualized attention based on their unique circumstances. Our firm also represents surviving family members in Florida wrongful death cases arising from fatal motorcycle accidents. We offer free consultations to all accident victims and handle all cases on a contingency basis, meaning you won’t pay for our representation unless and until we can recover compensation on your behalf. To learn more, give us a call at 305-448-8585. We serve clients all over South Florida, including but not limited to Miami, Naples, Homestead, Fort Lauderdale and Orlando.