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Tampa Motorcycle Accident Attorneys
Motorcyclists account for 7 percent of all motorists in the state of Florida, and yet they accounted for 20% of motor vehicle fatalities in 2015 in Florida according to the American Automobile Association. Florida actually leads the nation in crash fatalities. Motorcycle accident fatalities are more common because motorcyclists do not have enough protection, which makes them more vulnerable in accidents. Even helmets are not always helpful in accident situations.
Causes Of Motorcycle Accidents
It is often hard for drivers to spot motorcycles on the road because of their small size. Drivers can easily collide with motorcyclists especially if they suddenly stop their vehicles, or make a sudden turn in front of an oncoming motorcycle. Other times, drivers fail to accommodate motorcycles while changing lanes, or fail to appropriately judge distance or timing when they notice a motorcyclist. There are also instances where slippery patches of ice or other fluids on the road, or the motorcyclist’s own negligence causes an accident.
Studies show that the steady increase in fatalities in motorcycle accidents peaked in Florida between 2006 and 2007. Since then these accidents have been decreasing maybe because of the emphasis placed on apprehending drivers under the influence, and a mandatory rider training course.
How To Stay Safe On the Roads
The American Automobile Association (AAA) recommends the following for motorcyclists to reduce accidents:
- Keep headlights, taillights and markers on at night, or during cloudy rainy weather and wear bright clothing to be visible on the roads
- Wear helmets and other safety gear to reduce the risk of fatal injuries in a crash
- Use your signals before weaving between lanes, and stick to the speed limit
- Get proper training by completing a motorcycle safety course
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Not all injuries in motorcycle accidents are fatal. Some of the most common injuries include:
- Broken ribs
- Broken bones
- Spinal cord injuries
- Soft tissue injuries
- Road Rash
Riders that do not wear helmets may be more likely to suffer traumatic brain injuries. These injuries tend to be more severe than those sustained by occupants in other vehicle accidents, because there is no metal case protecting motorcycle riders.
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Damages Following A Motorcycle Accident
People injured in a motorcycle accident because of someone else’s negligence have the right to recover damages for their injuries. You may be compensated for the following losses and expenses:
- Pain and suffering
- Therapy and other medical expenses
- Lost wages or work time
- Damage to your motorcycle and other property
- Loss of quality of life
- Loss of consortium
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Future medical bills related to the injury
Proving Negligence In A Motorcycle Accident
Motorcyclists that are injured usually face the challenge to dispel the myth that they got injured because they are thrill seekers and risk-takers. Your attorney will carry out an investigation where the attorney will do the following:
- Interview witnesses
- Preserve physical evidence
- Examine the vehicles involved in the accident and investigate the accident scene
- Identify and question potential defendants
- Hire experts to evaluate your injuries
All these actions will help your attorney gather enough material to help prove who was responsible for your accident.