Have you been in a motorcycle accident?
You could get money if you or someone you care about were hurt in a motorcycle accident in Tampa, FL. Call Ryan: at (727) 266-0022 immediately, as time is of the essence in a legal case.
Ryan and his team will evaluate the facts of your case and figure out the best strategy to get you what you deserve in the simplest and most headache-free way possible. Let Ryan do the heavy lifting. Our team only gets paid if you do. We work for free until your case is settled and you have a check in hand.
You might think your insurance company has your back, but you should consider their financial incentive to settle your case for as little money and time as possible. They are not vested in seeing your case to its maximum monetary value.
On the other hand, a contingency-based law firm like ours has the same financial incentive as you since we only get paid if you do. By aligning incentives, both parties win by producing the most favorable outcome. You won't get that from insurance.
We take care of every step in your case so you can keep it mostly out of sight and out of mind. With every letter, response, phone call, and email back and forth between lawyers, insurance companies, and medical providers, we do all the work to settle your case and get you what you deserve.
Below is valuable information related to motorcycle accidents in Tampa and surrounding areas. The more you know, the better you will perform.
How Much Is My Motorcycle Accident Case Worth?
No formula or calculator may only be utilized to estimate the value of your motorcycle accident case without adequate investigation. All accident cases are valued based on a variety of unique, individual variables:
- Whether you share responsibility
- Your amount of insurance coverage (and theirs)
- The strength of your negligent case
- The severity of your injuries
- The cause and circumstances of the crash
- How your injuries will impact your ability to work and live
What Damages Are Motorcycle Accident Victims Entitled To?
- Medical expenses
- Lost income
- Diminished earning capacity
- Emotional pain and distress, and suffering
- Decreased life quality
- Disfigurement
How Long Do I Have To File A Lawsuit After A Motorcycle Crash In Florida?
In Florida, personal injury lawsuits have a four-year statute of limitations. If you miss this crucial deadline, your case will be dismissed, and you will not receive compensation. Even in the case of a fatal accident, the statute of limitations is just two years.
The investigation and negotiation process can take many months, so don't delay your claims. Delays may allow valuable evidence to be lost, weakening your case. Contact our law office to schedule a time to speak with an attorney who can help you protect your claim.
What Do I Do After A Motorcycle Accident?
- Call 911 and remain at the scene.
- Take photos, videos, and notes, and document everything.
- Get all contact info and insurance info from all parties involved.
- Avoid saying much. Don't apologize or talk to other parties. Keep to yourself. The less you say, the better.
- Call Ryan: (727) 266-0022
- Seek medical attention.
Florida Motorcycle Helmet Requirements
In most instances, Florida law requires motorcycle riders and passengers to wear helmets. Riders must also wear eye protection. You may ride without a helmet if you are at least 21 years old and hold an insurance policy that provides at least $10,000 in medical benefits.
Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage on your vehicle does not include motorcycle accidents. This sounds very similar to PIP insurance coverage for automobile accidents, but there is a big difference.
If you don't wear protective headgear, you may be penalized but severely injured if you crash on a motorcycle. Even if a helmet is not required, it may be very costly if you go without one. Using a helmet can reduce your probability of death by 37% and your likelihood of head trauma by 69%.
Can I still seek damages if I wasn't wearing a helmet?
Yes. You can still seek damages from the person who injured you in a no-fault insurance state as long as your injuries are severe, though not wearing one may hurt your case.
Florida Motorcycle Accident Statistics
There are nearly 602,000 motorcycles registered in Florida, one of America's top three states for motorcycle rallies. Even though Florida is one of America's deadliest motorcycle crash states, out-of-state bikers come here for its large motorcycle gatherings, pleasant weather, and scenic roads.
Florida has a high volume of motorcycle accidents and is one of America's top three states for deadly collisions. In 2021, 8,629 motorbike crashes were recorded, and 586 were fatal. Although motorcycles are only involved in 2 to 4 percent of all accidents, they account for 15.52% of all fatality accidents.
As of April 12th, 2022, there have been 2,584 motorcycle accidents in Florida. The accidents included 515 injuries and 37 fatalities. There were 172 motorcycle accidents in 2022, including 19 injuries and 12 deaths (as of April 2022).
Hillsborough County had 584 motorcycle accidents in 2021, including 515 injuries and 37 fatalities. As of April 12th, 2022, there have been 172 motorcycle accidents, including 19 injuries and 12 deaths (preliminary statistics).
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents are often the result of driver carelessness. Thousands of riders are killed or injured yearly in motorcycle accidents caused by unsafe lane changes, car doors, speeding, DUI, and more.
Motorcycle fatalities are caused primarily by speeding (33%) and drunk driving (27%). Lane splitting, illegal in Florida, is listed as a factor in nearly 40% of fatal crashes. Lane change or improper lane usage may also contribute to accidents.
Unsafe lane changes and left-hand turns account for nearly 40% of motorcycle accidents. Road conditions, particularly potholes and lousy pavement, are hazardous for motorcyclists.
Top 10 Causes For Motorcycle Accidents In Florida
Some studies have shown that motorcycle accidents in Florida were the fault of other drivers around 60% of the time. Watch out!
Drunk driving or driving under the influence: Drivers who cause accidents because they drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs may face civil and criminal liability.
Unsafe lane changes: You jeopardize a collision by not looking in your blind spot or flashing your turn signal before changing lanes to avoid a motorcyclist.
Car doors: Car doors can interfere with a motorcycle accident by opening into the oncoming path of the vehicle.
Lane splitting: When someone rides their motorcycle between two lanes of traffic, they're lane-splitting. This practice isn't legal in Florida and is especially dangerous for inexperienced riders.
Sudden stops: Motorcycle drivers should always maintain enough room between themselves and a car ahead of them; otherwise, they risk getting into a sudden stop like the other driver. This can lead to severe injury or death for motorcyclists.
Inexperienced drivers: Some inexperienced drivers who are new to the road may make unsafe moves that could endanger other motorists.
Left turn accidents. Many injuries and even fatalities occur when a rider misjudges the distance between their motorcycle and a car or pedestrian in the intersection, often because of limited visibility to the front and from oncoming traffic.
Dangerous road conditions. Crumbling pavement, potholes, debris, and a lack of necessary signals and signs can increase motorcycle riders' chances of losing control of their vehicle.
Motorcycle defects: A manufacturer can be responsible for any injuries or deaths from using a defective motorcycle.
How To Protect Yourself Riding A Motorcycle
Every year, nearly 5,000 motorcycle fatalities are in the United States alone.
So it's essential to know how to protect yourself while riding. Read on and learn how to keep yourself safe while enjoying the ride.
It would be best to be adequately equipped when you're out on the open road. That means wearing the right gear.
Motorcycle riders should always wear helmets and protective clothing like gloves, boots, and a heavy jacket.
Helmets are the most critical piece of safety gear for motorcycle riders.
They protect your head in the event of a crash and can help prevent serious injuries.
Always make sure your helmet fits properly and is securely fastened.
Gloves protect your hands from the elements and injuries in a fall.
They should fit snugly and be made from durable leather or Kevlar.
Boots are another vital piece of safety gear for motorcycle riders. They protect your feet and lower legs from the elements and injuries in a fall. Look for boots made from sturdy leather or Kevlar that fit snugly around your ankles.
A heavy jacket helps protect your upper body in the fall and keeps you warm in cold weather. Look for a sturdy leather or Kevlar coat with padding on the elbows and shoulders.
Be Visible
Visibility is integral to protecting yourself riding a motorcycle. This means wearing bright clothing and ensuring your bike has working headlights and taillights. It is also a good idea to ride in well-lit areas and avoid blind spots.
Obey the Law
It is essential to obey all traffic laws while on the open road. This not only keeps you safe, but it also protects other motorists from having to deal with reckless riders. Remember, even though you may feel in control of your motorcycle, you are putting yourself and others at risk if you break the law.
Ride Defensively
When you're out on the open road, it's important to remember to ride defensively. This means being aware of your surroundings and avoiding potential hazards. Here are some tips to help you ride defensively:
- Always wear a helmet and protective gear
- Be visible by wearing bright clothing and using reflective materials
- Use your headlights, even during the day
- Ride in the middle of the lane to increase your visibility
- Be aware of blind spots, significantly when changing lanes
- Give yourself plenty of space between you and other vehicles
- Be cautious when passing other cars, and use your horn to signal your presence
- Watch for animals or debris that could cause a collision
- Slow down and use caution when riding in adverse weather conditions.
Consider taking a Motorcycle Safety Course
When it comes to motorcycle safety, one of the best things you can do is take a motorcycle safety course.
This will give you the skills and knowledge to safely operate a motorcycle and help you become more confident on the road.
Various motorcycle safety courses are available, so finding one that's right for you is crucial.
Many community colleges and motorcycling organizations offer classes that range from basic rider training to more advanced instruction. Taking a motorcycle safety course is an investment in your safety and should be considered if you're serious about riding a motorcycle.
Not only will it make you a better rider, but it could also save your life.
Tampa Emergency Rooms for Accidents
Tampa is a beautiful city in Florida but also a popular place for motorcycle crashes. Knowing which emergency rooms in Tampa are best equipped to handle your injuries is essential if you're involved in a motorcycle accident.
Tampa General Hospital
Tampa General Hospital is a leading trauma center in the Tampa Bay area and a Level I trauma center. The hospital has a dedicated team of surgeons, nurses, and other medical staff trained to care for patients with serious injuries.
The hospital also has a helipad for patients who need to be airlifted to the hospital.
Tampa Bay Regional Medical Center
Tampa Bay Regional Medical Center is a Level II trauma center and the only adult and pediatric trauma center in Hillsborough County. The medical center has a team of highly trained surgeons, physicians, nurses, and support staff who are dedicated to providing the best possible care for patients who have been involved in motorcycle accidents.
The medical center offers a variety of services for motorcycle accident victims, including:
- emergency care
- surgery
- rehabilitation
- psychological support
The medical center also has a 24/7 helpline that provides free counseling and support to motorcycle accident victims and their families.
University Community Hospital
Tampa is home to University Community Hospital, which has a Level I trauma center and is prepared to handle the most severe motorcycle crash cases.
The hospital has a team of experienced surgeons, nurses, and other medical professionals dedicated to providing the best possible care for their patients.
In addition to its trauma center, University Community Hospital has a full range of diagnostic and treatment facilities, making it a comprehensive resource for motorcycle crash victims in Tampa.
Brandon Regional Hospital
Brandon Regional Hospital is a JCAHO-accredited, full-service hospital serving the Tampa Bay area. Our ER is open 24/7 and provides care for all types of emergencies.
Our team of experienced doctors and nurses is trained to handle motorcycle crashes. We also have the latest technology and equipment to provide the best possible care for our patients.
St. Joseph's Hospital
If you are involved in a motorcycle crash in Tampa, you will likely be taken to St. Joseph's Hospital. The hospital has a Level I trauma center and is one of the busiest emergency rooms in the area.
The hospital staff is experienced in treating all types of injuries, including those sustained in motorcycle accidents. They will work quickly to stabilize you and get the treatment you need.
If you are worried about the cost of your treatment, don't be. St. Joseph's offers free or low-cost care to those who need it. You can rest assured that you will receive the best care at this hospital.
