There are over 8,000 motorcycle crashes annually in Florida, resulting in untimely deaths and hundreds of thousands of injuries. Our Southwest Florida area was recently ranked in the top 10 most dangerous Florida motorcycle accidents. The personal injury attorneys at Woodward, Pires & Lombardo, P.A. have seen their share of how devastating accidents can be for riders, passengers, and their families. If you have suffered loss or injuries from a motorcycle accident, learn how to receive the most compensation by contacting us today.
What Should You Do After a Motorcycle Collision
If you have been in an unfortunate motorcycle accident, first determine if you and any of the parties have serious injuries and if so, call 911 for medical assistance and report the accident to the police. If possible, take photos, exchange information with the parties, and look around for witnesses. Next, contact an experienced motorcycle accident attorney to represent you to the insurance company. The sooner you get an attorney, the better, as they can assist with evidence, obtain your police report and medical records, document your damages and negotiate with the insurance company.
Do not speak with an insurance representative, sign documentation, or accept monetary compensation without speaking with a lawyer. Additionally, never allow yourself to be recorded while speaking with an insurance company. Finally, refrain from discussing blame for the accident and any previous medical conditions. An insurance company could use your earlier statements against you during the claim process.
After a close evaluation of your case and legal analysis, you may be entitled to much more compensation than was offered initially or that you may have previously thought. Again, an accident attorney will help you negotiate the best possible settlement or take your case to trial if necessary.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Florida
Motorcyclists face various hazards on Florida streets and Interstates and have a much smaller visual profile than passenger vehicles. Additionally, a motorcyclist is almost 30 times more likely to be killed in an accident than an occupant of a car. Some top causes of motorcycle accidents are:
- Distracted driving.
- Alcohol-induced.
- Lack of driving skill; inexperience.
- Fatigue.
- Reckless driving, speeding, left-turn accidents.
- Lane splitting and lane switching.
- Dangerous weather conditions.
- Open car doors and other sudden stops.
- Automobile blind spots.
- Malfunction of or lack of helmet and other safety gear.
- Bad road conditions and debris.
- Animal crossings.
- Bike manufacturer defects.
Part of accident prevention is education. The Collier County Sheriff’s Office offers a free motorcycle safety and training course open to the public. Click here for more information on the course.
If you suffered injuries or losses as a result of a motorcycle accident, learn how you can receive compensation by contacting a motorcycle accident attorney at Woodward, Pires & Lombardo, P.A. Call (239) 649-6555 today.
Common Injuries Suffered in Motorcycle Collisions
The most common injuries from a motorcycle accident are road rash, broken or fractured bones, foot and leg injuries, head and neck injuries, spinal injuries, burns, hand and arm injuries, brain injuries, lacerations, broken ribs, and internal bleeding. Traumatic brain injury (TBI) may not be readily noticeable, so getting medical treatment as soon as possible after the crash is vital.
Types of Damages Suffered in a Motorcycle Accident
There are several pieces to the puzzle in determining liability and getting you the justice you deserve after a motorcycle accident. Some include, but are not limited to:
-Medical expenses, including emergency room treatment, ambulance, radiology, hospitals, doctor visits, surgeries, and physical therapy.
-Lost wages or earnings
-Loss of future earning capacity
-Pain and suffering
Talk to our Personal Injury Attorneys
Learn more about how our Naples area personal injury law attorneys can help you through the Florida legal process concerning your motorcycle accident. Arrange a consultation by calling Woodward, Pires & Lombardo, P.A. on 239-649-6555 or send us an e-mail today.
Related post: What Should I Do After an Auto Accident Near Naples, Florida?