Wesley Chapel Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
The Florida climate enables motorcycle enthusiasts to enjoy the open road almost any time of year, but there are risks involved with your favorite activity. The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) reports that Pasco County is home to almost 270 motorcycle accidents every year. This figure may seem minor until you break down the figures: More than 94 percent of all motorcycle collisions lead to at least one fatality or injured victim. Because of the two-wheeled design and size disparity compared to other vehicles, you can be sure that the rider suffers the most devastating harm.
If you were hurt or lost a loved one in a motorcycle crash, you may qualify to recover compensation from the at-fault motorist. Because the laws can be complicated, it is wise to trust The Rinaldo Law Group to guide you through the legal process. Please contact us to schedule a free consultation with a Wesley Chapel motorcycle accident lawyer who can provide details. An overview may also be useful.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Crashes
While the specific reasons behind these incidents may vary, the underlying cause of motorcycle collisions is negligence. This term has a very specific meaning under Florida law, and it requires detailed evidence. You need to prove that the motorist breached the duty to drive safely, and this failure was the direct cause of the crash. In a motorcycle accident case, forms of driver negligence may include:
- Speeding;
- Not checking before switching lanes and other improper lane changes;
- Drunk and drugged driving;
- Failure to yield right of way;
- Distracted driving, such as texting, talking on the phone, eating, grooming, or adjusting a GPS; and
- Running red lights and stop signs.
Note that Florida has enacted a statute on comparative fault, which highlights your own conduct in a motorcycle crash. If you were also negligent, such as by engaging in any of the acts above, your compensation will be reduced by the amount of fault attributed to you.
Monetary Damages for Victims of Motorcycle Collisions
If you are able to provide the essential elements of an accident claim, you may be entitled to recover compensation for your medical costs, lost wages, pain and suffering, and many other losses. The Rinaldo Law Group will tackle the essential legal tasks, starting with filing a claim with the responsible driver’s insurance company. The process can be challenging, especially since the insurer will focus on its own bottom line and not your interests.
Our Wesley Chapel motorcycle accidents lawyers strive to work out an agreement to settle, but we are prepared to initiate litigation as necessary to get the monetary damages you deserve.
Get Legal Help from a Wesley Chapel Motorcycle Accident Attorney
While this summary covers the basics, there are many other details and legal nuances involved with Florida motorcycle collision claims. To learn more about your remedies, please contact The Rinaldo Law Group to set up a complimentary case assessment. We can advise you on the process after reviewing your situation.