The thrill of cruising down West Palm Beach’s scenic coastal roads on a motorcycle is undeniable, but the exhilaration comes with inherent dangers, often due to other drivers’ negligence. Distracted driving, a failure to yield, and improper lane changes are just a few of the common hazards that make motorcyclists particularly vulnerable on Florida roads.
If you’ve had the unfortunate experience of being involved in a motorcycle accident caused by someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation through a personal injury lawsuit, but there will likely be some challenges along the way.
Motorcycle bias is a very real and significant hurdle after a motorcycle accident, which is why it’s essential to get help from an experienced motorcycle accident attorney who understands the complexities of these cases.
At Redondo Law, skilled West Palm Beach accident attorney Mike Redondo has extensive experience fighting for the rights of motorcycle crash victims. He can help you explore your legal options, gather evidence to prove the other driver’s liability, and ensure your rights are protected.
Interested in learning more?
Contact Redondo Law today for a free consultation to find out how Mike can help maximize your injury claim.
How common are motorcycle accidents in Florida?
While nowhere near as common as car crashes, motorcycle accidents are still a significant problem in Florida.
According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV), in 2023 alone, there were 9,535 motorcycle accidents in Florida, resulting in 8,196 injuries and 609 deaths. Of those crashes, about 451 (or about 5%) occurred in Palm Beach County.
Where is the most likely place for a motorcycle accident?
Serious motorcycle accidents occur most often in urban areas and at non-intersection locations. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2021, about 67% of motorcycle fatalities happened in urban areas, while only 33% occurred in rural areas.
Additionally, 65% of these fatalities took place at locations that were not intersections, compared to only 35% at intersections.
This may come as a surprise, as many people falsely assume that intersections are the most dangerous places for motorcyclists. However, this data shows that straightaways and non-intersection areas in urban settings actually pose a higher risk of fatal motorcycle accidents.
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How do most motorcycle accidents happen?
Motorcycle accidents often result from a combination of factors, but some of the leading causes include:
- Speeding. Excessive speed is a leading cause of motorcycle accidents. The NHTSA reported that in 2021, 33% of all motorcycle riders who were fatally injured in a crash were speeding, compared to 22% of passenger car drivers, 15% of light-truck drivers, and 7% of large-truck drivers. Speeding reduces reaction time and also increases the severity of injuries in the event of a crash.
- Distracted driving. Distracted drivers, whether texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise not paying attention, are a major threat to motorcyclists, with even a momentary lapse in focus potentially leading to a life-altering accident.
- Impaired driving. Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs pose a significant risk to everyone on the road, including motorcyclists. Their impaired judgment and reaction times make them more likely to cause accidents.
- Motorcycle defects. Mechanical failures or defects in the motorcycle itself can lead to accidents if not promptly addressed.
- Inexperienced riders. Inexperienced motorcyclists may lack the skills and experience to handle unexpected situations or hazards on the road, making them more susceptible to accidents.
- Left-turn accidents. This is a common type of motorcycle accident, occurring when a car turning left fails to yield to an oncoming motorcycle. This can happen if a driver misjudges the motorcycle’s speed or simply doesn’t see it.
- Car doors. A seemingly minor incident, such as a car door opening in the path of a motorcyclist, can cause devastating injuries. Motorcyclists have little protection and can be thrown from their bikes or into other vehicles.
- Lane splitting. While legal in some states, lane splitting, or riding between lanes of traffic, is illegal in Florida and inherently risky. Close proximity to other vehicles increases the chance of a collision, especially if drivers are not expecting a motorcycle in that space.
- Dangerous road conditions. Potholes, debris, uneven pavement, and other road hazards can be particularly dangerous for motorcyclists, who are more vulnerable to losing control of their bikes.
Regardless of the specific cause, if it can be proven that the motorcycle accident resulted from someone else’s negligence, you may be entitled to compensation through a personal injury lawsuit.
What happens to your body in a motorcycle accident?
In a motorcycle accident, the human body is exposed to immense forces due to the lack of protection a motorcycle offers compared to other vehicles. This often results in more severe and even catastrophic injuries with life-altering consequences.
Some of the most common injuries in motorcycle accidents include:
- Road rash. This is a type of abrasion caused by sliding across the pavement. It can range from minor scrapes to deep, painful wounds that require extensive treatment.
- Broken bones. The impact of a motorcycle accident can easily fracture or break bones, especially in the arms, legs, and ribs. Wrist fractures are also common, as riders often try to break their fall with their hands.
- Spinal cord injuries. The spinal cord is vulnerable in motorcycle accidents, and injuries can result in partial or complete paralysis.
- Brain injuries. Even with a helmet, head injuries are a major risk in motorcycle accidents. These can range from concussions to traumatic brain injuries with long-term consequences.
- Internal injuries. The force of impact can cause damage to internal organs like the liver, spleen, or lungs. These injuries can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.
- Facial injuries. If the rider’s face is exposed, facial fractures, dental injuries, and lacerations can occur, leading to significant disfigurement and the need for reconstructive surgery.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident, seeking prompt medical assistance is crucial both for your health and any future personal injury claim.
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Do I need an attorney if I’m injured in a motorcycle accident in Florida?
Yes, hiring an attorney after a motorcycle accident in Florida can be highly beneficial, especially if you suffered serious injuries or your family member suffered a wrongful death due to another driver’s negligence. Here’s why:
Establishing fault and liability in a motorcycle accident can be challenging, especially under Florida’s modified comparative negligence approach, which allows the fault to be shared amongst multiple parties.
This legal standard means that if you’re found to be partially liable for an accident, your compensation will be reduced according to your percentage of fault, and you cannot recover any damages if you’re more than 50% responsible.
An experienced attorney can help by gathering evidence, interviewing witnesses, and building a strong case to prove the other party’s negligence, ensuring that your degree of fault is minimized. This approach is crucial for maximizing your compensation and protecting your rights.
Other reasons why legal representation is often crucial in motorcycle claims include:
- Insurance company negotiations. Because insurance companies typically try to limit their payouts, having an experienced attorney handle the negotiations can help ensure you receive fair compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, and pain and suffering.
- Damage estimation. Lawyers are skilled in calculating the full extent of your economic and non-economic damages, including future medical costs and long-term impacts. They can ensure you seek adequate compensation to cover all your needs.
- Help with legal procedures. The legal process involves various steps, including filing claims, meeting deadlines before the statute of limitations expires, and preparing for court if necessary. An attorney can manage all these tasks efficiently, allowing you to focus on recovery.
- Experience with similar cases. Attorneys specializing in motorcycle accidents have experience dealing with similar cases and can anticipate potential challenges, strategize effectively, and use their knowledge to your advantage.
The reality is that motorcycle accident cases are often complex, and even when the other driver is clearly at fault, you may still have obstacles to overcome when proving liability due to the bias many drivers and insurers have toward motorcyclists.
An attorney can help establish the facts of the case and advocate on your behalf to ensure you’re treated fairly and awarded the compensation you deserve.
Why choose Redondo Law for your West Palm Beach motorcycle accident case?
At Redondo Law, you don’t just get an attorney; you get a team of advocates who are dedicated to fighting for your rights and providing comprehensive support throughout your case.
Unparalleled experience
Our firm has extensive experience handling complex motorcycle accident cases specific to West Palm Beach, Florida. We understand the unique challenges motorcyclists face and have the expertise to navigate the legal intricacies involved.
High success rate
Redondo Law boasts a consistent track record of successful outcomes in motorcycle accident claims. We’re dedicated to ensuring our clients receive the maximum compensation for their injuries, pain, and suffering.
You always come first
At Redondo Law, we prioritize transparent communication and a client-centered approach. We make ourselves readily available to answer your questions and alleviate any concerns, ensuring you’re well-informed throughout the legal process.
No fees unless we win
Our services are provided on a contingency fee basis, meaning there are zero fees if we don’t win your case. We never get paid unless you do, ensuring that your interests are always our top priority.
Injured in a West Palm Beach motorcycle accident? Redondo Law can help!
If you or a loved one has been seriously or fatally injured in a Florida motorcycle accident, don’t leave your case up to chance. At Redondo Law, knowledgeable West Palm Beach injury attorney Mike Redondo is ready to fight for your rights and get you the justice and compensation you deserve.
Mike’s unique experience working for insurance companies early on in his career gives him insider knowledge of their tactics, which he now uses to maximize settlement awards and judgments for accident victims like you.
Contact Redondo Law today to see how Mike can help with your motorcycle accident claim.
References
Crash Dashboard. (n.d.). Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. https://www.flhsmv.gov/traffic-crash-reports/crash-dashboard/
Motorcycles: 2021 Data 1. (n.d.). https://crashstats.nhtsa.dot.gov/Api/Public/ViewPublication/813466.pdf
