Motorcycle Accident FAQs
Motorcycle accidents are dangerous and terrifying accidents, but no two are ever exactly alike. Nevertheless, there are common concerns and accident claim fundamentals that apply across the board. If another motorist’s negligence leaves you injured in a motorcycle accident, reach out to an experienced St. Petersburg personal injury attorney today.
What Should I do First?
There are some basic first steps that every motorcycle accident victim should take, including:
- Seek the medical attention you need. Because injuries can be asymptomatic until they develop into something both more serious and more difficult to treat, this is an important step even if you think your injuries are minor.
- Consult with an experienced personal injury attorney. Obtaining compensation for your full range of physical, financial, and emotional damages is critical to your recovery, which makes working closely with an attorney essential.
What if I Wasn’t Wearing a Helmet?
While you are well-advised to always wear a helmet when you ride, you are not legally required to do so in the State of Florida if you are over the age of 21. Nevertheless, motorcycle helmets are closely associated with reducing the severity of head and neck injuries, and the jury in your case may take this into consideration if you suffered such an injury.
What if I Share Fault?
In Florida, the fact that you may share fault for the injuries you sustain in a motorcycle accident will not stop you from collecting on the damages you suffered as a result of the other motorist’s negligence. If you were driving 10 miles over the speed limit when a distracted driver rear-ended your motorcycle, you may be deemed 20 percent at fault (for example), which would reduce your court awarded compensation by 20 percent. Don’t let the fact that you may share fault for an accident dissuade you from seeking the compensation to which you are entitled.
What Kind of Damages Can I Seek?
The physical impact associated with even relatively minor motorcycle accidents can be immense and can lead to serious damages. In your accident claim, you can address all of the following damages (in addition to property damage to your bike):
- Medical Costs – The medical costs you face are likely to be considerable, including emergency care, surgery, hospitalization, physical therapy, rehabilitation, prescription medications, and much more. Further, you could be looking at ongoing medical expenses related to long-term treatment and secondary health concerns.
- Lost Wages – If you’ve been seriously injured, you may not be able to return to work for an extended period, which will almost certainly translate to decreased wages.
- Pain and Suffering – The physical and emotional pain and suffering brought on by a motorcycle accident can be debilitating and should be directly addressed in your motorcycle accident claim.
Don’t Delay Consulting with an Experienced St. Petersburg Motorcycle Accident Attorney
The St. Petersburg motorcycle accident lawyers at Tragos, Sartes & Tragos have an impressive track record of helping clients like you fully recover for their physical, financial, and emotional damages. Your case is important, so please don’t hesitate to contact us online or call us at (727) 441-9030 for more information today.