Palm Harbor Motorcycle Accident Attorney
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident, it is important to seek legal help right away. Unfortunately, many motorcycle accident victims don’t realize that they may file a lawsuit against the other driver involved in the accident.
A motorcycle accident lawyer in Palm Harbor can help you get the compensation you deserve for your injuries. There are many factors that go into determining who is at fault in a motorcycle accident, and it is important to have an experienced personal injury attorney on your side. Also serving Tarpon Springs and all of Pinellas County, contact The Fran Haasch Law Group today for a free case review.
What Are My Rights After a Motorcycle Accident?
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to file a lawsuit against the other driver. You may be able to recover damages for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Common Motorcycle Accident Causes
Driver negligence is the most common cause of motorcycle accidents. This occurs when a driver fails to exercise the level of care that a reasonable person would have in similar circumstances. Some examples of driver negligence include:
- Distracted driving
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Failing to yield the right of way
- Running a red light or stop sign
- Drunk driving
Other common causes include:
- Road hazards: anything on or near the roadway that could cause an accident. This includes things like potholes, debris, and construction zones.
- Defective products: any product that was not designed or manufactured correctly, and as a result, can cause accidents or injuries. This includes things like faulty brakes or tires.
- Other Vehicles: Cars making a left turn in front of a motorcycle, trucks turning into the path of a motorcycle, and cars hitting a motorcycle from behind are all common causes of accidents.
How Common are Motorcycle Accidents in Palm Harbor?
Motorcycle accidents are relatively common in Palm Harbor. In fact, according to the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles website, there were over 400 motorcycle crashes in Pinellas County in 2021.
What Should I Do After a Motorcycle Accident?
If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident, it is important to take the following steps:
- Seek medical treatment: If you are injured, seek medical help right away.
- Document the Accident – Take pictures of the scene and make notes about what happened.
- Exchange information with the other driver, including name, address, insurance information, and vehicle registration number.
- Contact a Palm Harbor personal injury attorney – A Palm Harbor personal injury lawyer will help you get the money you deserve.
Common Injuries After a Motorcycle Crash
Motorcycle accidents can cause a wide range of injuries, some of which are quite serious. Some common injuries include:
Back injuries occur when a person is thrown from their motorcycle or when they are hit by something. This can include herniated discs, spinal cord injury, and paralysis.
Spinal cord injuries occur when a person’s spine is damaged. This can lead to things like paralysis, loss of sensation, and incontinence.
Traumatic brain injury occurs when a person’s head is hit hard or experiences a violent shaking of the head. This can cause concussions, seizures, and even death.
Burns and lacerations occur when a person is in a motorcycle accident. This can include things like road rash, cuts, and burns.
Florida Law For Motorcycles
Florida has several laws that pertain to motorcycles. Some of the most important ones are:
- Motorcycles must have a headlight and taillight on at all times.
- Motorcycles must use turn signals when turning or changing lanes.
- Helmets are required for riders under the age of 21.
- Riders can only carry one passenger at a time.
- Motorcycles are not allowed to lane split or filter.
Are Motorcyclists Required to Carry Insurance in Palm Harbor?
No, they are not required to carry insurance.
Why Should I File a Palm Harbor Motorcycle Accident Claim?
There are several reasons why you should file a personal injury claim for a motorcycle crash. Some of the most important ones are:
You may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, medical expenses, and lost wages.
The insurance company may not take into consideration all of your losses, and by filing a claim, you can ensure that you receive the full amount of damages you are entitled to.
Filing a claim can help you hold the other driver responsible for their actions, and may also deter them from acting negligently in the future.
How Much Do Motorcycle Accidents Cost?
The cost of motorcycle accidents can vary widely. This depends on several factors, including the severity of the injuries and who is at fault. However, some estimates put the cost of a motorcycle accident at around $15,000.
Who Can Be Held Responsible for My Injuries in a Motorcycle Accident?
The driver of the other vehicle involved in the accident can be held responsible for your injuries. In some cases, the manufacturer or distributor of the motorcycle may also be liable. It is important to speak with a personal injury lawyer to determine who is responsible for your injuries.
Can a Motorcycle Accident Victim Recover Damages in Palm Harbor, Florida?
Yes, motorcycle accident victims can recover damages in Palm Harbor, Florida. The amount of damages that can be recovered will depend on the facts and circumstances of each case. Some factors that may be taken into consideration include:
- The severity of the injuries sustained
- The medical costs incurred
- The lost wages or income suffered
- The pain and suffering endured
- The emotional distress experienced
Types of Damages Awarded for Personal Injury Claims in Palm Harbor, Florida
Economic damages: Medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage.
Non-economic damages: Pain and suffering, emotional distress, inconvenience, physical impairment, and loss of consortium.
Punitive damages: Damages awarded to punish the defendant for particularly egregious behavior.
How Can a Personal Injury Attorney Help with My Compensation Claim?
A personal injury attorney can help you file a compensation claim and will work to get you the maximum amount of damages you are entitled to. They will also handle all negotiations with the insurance company, so you don’t have to deal with them directly.
Are There Time Limits for Filing a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit in Palm Harbor, Florida?
Yes, there are time limits for filing a motorcycle accident lawsuit in Palm Harbor, Florida. The statute of limitations is two years from the date of the accident. However, it is essential to speak with a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible after an accident so that you can understand your rights and obligations.
How To File Palm Harbor Motorcycle Accident Claims
If you have been injured in a motorcycle crash, you may want to file a personal injury claim. This legal action can be brought against the person or company responsible for your injuries.
File a Complaint
The first step is to file a complaint with the court. This is a document that sets out your allegations against the defendant. To file a personal injury claim, you will need to do the following:
Serve the Complaint
Once you file the complaint, you will need to serve it on the defendant. This means giving them a copy of the complaint and letting them know that you are suing them.
Answer the Complaint
The defendant will then have a chance to respond to your allegations. They may file a motion to dismiss the case or answer the complaint.
Trial
If a settlement is not met, it will proceed to hearings and then trial. At this point, both sides will present their evidence and arguments before a judge or jury.
The personal injury attorneys at The Fran Haasch Law Group can guide you through the basics of filing your motorcycle accident claim.
What’s Involved in a Motorcycle Accident Case?
If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, there are several things that will need to happen to file a successful personal injury claim.
First, you will need to seek medical attention for your injuries. This is important not only because you need to receive treatment, but also because you will need documentation of your injuries later on if you decide to file a claim.
You will also need to gather evidence from the accident scene. This includes photos of the damages, witness statements, and police reports.
Finally, you will need to speak with an attorney to help you file a personal injury claim. The attorneys at The Fran Haasch Law Group are experienced in motorcycle accidents and can help you get the damages you deserve.
Are Motorcyclists Usually At Fault in Car Accidents?
There is no one answer to this question as the cause of a motorcycle accident can vary greatly. However, drivers should always be aware of motorcycles and take steps to avoid collisions. For example, motorists should always use caution when making left-hand turns, checking for oncoming traffic before changing lanes, and using their turn signals appropriately.
Liability in Motorcycle Accidents
In a motorcycle accident, the person or company responsible for your injuries is known as the defendant. This may be the driver of the other vehicle, the owner of the other vehicle, or even a third party. You will need to prove that the defendant was negligent and that their negligence caused your injuries.
Proving Negligence in Palm Harbor Motorcycle Accident Claims
Negligence is the failure to use reasonable care while performing an act that causes injury to another. In order to win a negligence case, you must prove the following:
- The defendant owed you a duty of care
- The defendant breached their duty of care
- Your injuries were caused by a breach of duty
- You suffered damages as a result
Can I Recover Compensation if The Insurance Company Blames Me for The Crash?
If the insurance company blames you for the motorcycle accident, you may still be able to recover compensation. Unfortunately, the insurance company will likely try to deny your claim or offer a low settlement amount. However, with the help of an attorney, you can fight back and get the damages you deserve.
What if I Didn’t Wear a Helmet?
You may still be able to recover damages if you were not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident. However, your damages will likely be reduced by the percentage that you would have received had you been wearing a helmet.
Can I File a Personal Injury Lawsuit for Fatal Accidents?
In Florida, you may be able to file a wrongful death claim if you lose a loved one in a motorcycle accident. This type of claim allows the surviving family members to recover damages for their loss.
What Does a Lawyer Need From Me?
In order to file a motorcycle accident claim, your lawyer will need the following:
- Your name and contact information
- The date and location of the accident
- Photos of the damages
- Witness statements
- Police reports
- Medical records documenting your injuries.
Contact The Palm Harbor Motorcycle Accident Lawyers at The Fran Haasch Law Group Today
The attorneys at The Fran Haasch Law Group are experienced in all aspects of personal injury law, including bicycle accidents, car accidents, and scooter accidents. We can help you get the damages you deserve. We have a team of attorneys who are knowledgeable about motorcycle laws and can help you file a claim. Contact us today for a free, no-obligation case evaluation.
