Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcyclists face unique hazards that other drivers might be unaware of. Motorcycles are smaller and thus more difficult to see or more likely to be obscured by other vehicles or road conditions. Road conditions such as a wet roads, pot holes, puddles, debris and bumps become major obstacles for a motorcyclist. A motorcyclist is more likely to suffer a serious injury or death from even a minor impact. Head injuries are also very common in these accidents due to defective helmets, improper use of a helmet or not wearing one at all. A good Tampa Injury Lawyer will fight to ensure a fair recovery for the injured cyclist.

Motorcycle accident cases are handled like car accident cases except for a few key differences which are listed below:

PIP Insurance
Most motorcyclists don’t carry PIP insurance because it isn’t required in Florida. This means that a motorcyclist, who is the victim of an accident, will have to use the PIP insurance of the other driver. If there is no PIP available, an attorney can issue a letter of protection on your behalf.

Injuries
The injuries caused to the cyclist in an accident are usually far more serious than those caused in a car accident. Motorcyclists lack the protective barrier of metal that auto drivers have. Special care is needed in the handling of these cases to insure that the client recovers enough to guarantee proper care of his/her injuries. Some of the common injuries in a motorcycle accident are: skull fractures, brain injuries, broken bones, loss of a limb, paralysis and road rash.

Property Damage
Most of the time the motorcycle is badly damaged and the insurance company decides to “total” it. Be sure to consult the NADA bluebook and the dealer in order to determine fair replacement value.

Motorcyclists are owed a special duty of care by motorists due to their vulnerability. At The Law Offices of Michael R Herron we think motorists and insurance companies ought to be responsible for the injuries caused to a motorcyclist. If you have been injured in an accident you might have a personal injury case. Call us for a free consultation to find out.