Pinellas County Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
When riding a motorcycle, an individual faces a number of dangers on the road as it can sometimes be difficult for other drivers to see motorcyclists, especially when passing or changing lanes. Further, a motorcyclist is relatively unprotected in the event of a crash, which can be devastating for the rider regardless of the issue of who was the negligent party. Florida has the highest rate of motorcycle-related fatalities in the nation. Due to the nature of motorcycles, these drivers face a particularly dangerous situation when a crash occurs due to their lack of protection. Therefore, if you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, a Pinellas County motorcycle accident attorney can help you by pursuing compensation. An experienced injury attorney can help guide you through the legal process and ensure that you know what to expect a each step.
Motorcycle Laws in Florida
A motorcycle generally has the same rights and responsibilities as any type of passenger vehicle on the road. This means that a motorcycle is entitled to the full use of a lane of a highway, and can be fined for passing another vehicle in the same lane, except that a motorcyclist may drive with another motorcycle in side-by-side fashion in the same lane.
Motorcyclists are generally required to wear helmets, although as a Pinellas County motorcycle accident lawyer can explain, there is an exception for individuals who are over 21 years of age if they have the appropriate personal medical insurance coverage.
Further, a motorcyclist is obligated to keep headlights on at all times, even in the hours between sunrise and sunset, according to FL. Stat. 316.405. The violation of this rule is not admissible as evidence of the driver’s negligence in a potential trial, however, it may be considered on the issue of negligence if the lack of headlights is arguably the proximate or direct cause of the crash.
Common Injuries From Accidents
Riding a motorcycle comes with greater inherent risk than driving a car, as many of the safety features cars possess, motorcycles do not. Riders will almost inevitably be thrown from their motorcycle if they are struck by another vehicle.
The injures that can result from such a violent collision can be devastating and long-lasting. Some of the more common injuries that can occur are:
- Broken bones
- Head injuries
- Facial disfigurement
- Road rash
Many of these injuries can lead to weeks, months, or even years of costly medical care. A Pinellas County motorcycle accident lawyer can help put their client on the path to getting the compensation they deserve if their accident was due to the negligence of others.
Contacting a Pinellas County Motorcycle Accident Attorney
When you come in to meet with a Pinellas County motorcycle accident attorney, you will first and foremost gain an advocate who understands what you are going through, including the pain and suffering, medical bills, and costs to your lifestyle.
You need an attorney that knows the unique dangers motorcyclists face and who has the experience of fighting for riders in Florida courts. Contact a Pinellas County motorcycle accident attorney today.