Panama City Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Some see riding a motorcycle as the ultimate expression of freedom, but bikers are also far more susceptible to serious, life-altering injury by another person’s recklessness or carelessness. When other drivers ignore a cyclist’s equal rights to the roadway, they should be held accountable for their negligence.
After a motorcycle accident, dealing with insurance companies can be a confusing and frustrating experience. Insurance adjusters often try to blame the victims, telling them their injuries are not as serious as they appear or claiming that they should have known the risks. Because it is easy to misjudge how fast a motorcycle is traveling, the cause of these accidents is often wrongly cited as speeding by the cyclist.
Unique Dangers Facing Motorcyclists
Motorcyclists face extensive risks when driving around other vehicles. After all, even though motorcycles only account for 3% of registered vehicles, they are involved in 15% of all fatal accidents. Even for safe and careful riders, simply getting on a bike dramatically increases their odds of being involved in a serious accident, compared to if they had chosen any other motor vehicle.
Part of the reason for this is that there are unique factors that can lead to a Panama City motorcycle accident. Wet roads and weather conditions increase accident odds. Winding turns and construction zones can be hazardous. Even things as simple as potholes and poorly maintained road surfaces can present risks for motorcyclists.
The greatest risks, though, come from other drivers. Motorcyclists are in the minority of road traffic, and many car drivers have become accustomed to seeing cars and trucks on major roads. This can lead to an issue known as inattentional blindness, where a driver can look directly at a motorcycle and still not see it because they aren’t expecting to see it. This leads to many left-turn accidents, intersection crashes and issues where drivers inadvertently cut off motorcycles.
On top of that, common driving mistakes are more likely to injure motorcyclists due to their relative lack of protection. These include issues like distracted driving, drunk driving, and cars switching lanes or turning without looking or indicating by using a blinker.
Motorcyclists need to wear the right gear, including certified helmets, which can lower the odds of traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) and fatalities. They also need proper leather riding jackets or full-body suits, which can protect against road rash.
Unfortunately, even with the right gear, motorcyclists are essentially at the mercy of the drivers around them. Those who have suffered serious injuries need to meet with a Pensacola motorcycle accident law firm to explore their options as they seek compensation for medical bills, lost wages and much more.
Know Your Rights As An Injured Biker In Panama City And Pensacola
At the Panama City law firm of Walborsky Bradley & Fleming, PLLC, we are passionate about helping motor vehicle accident victims. We aggressively pursue the maximum compensation allowed in order to secure the financial futures of our clients.
Following a motorcycle crash due to the negligence of another, you have rights that you might not even be aware of. Depending on the circumstances of your claim, you may be entitled to compensation for your losses such as:
- Lost wages from time missed at work
- Future earnings if you are unable to work
- Medical bills and future treatment
- Scars and disfigurement
- Pain and suffering
What Should I Do Immediately After A Motorcycle Accident?
After a motorcycle collision in Panama City or Pensacola, taking the right steps can impact your ability to recover compensation. Your immediate priority should be your physical well-being – move to safety if possible and seek medical attention even if injuries seem minor, as some serious conditions may not show symptoms immediately.
After securing your safety, report the accident to law enforcement. A police report provides an official record of the incident that will be valuable when filing an insurance claim. While waiting for the police, exchange contact and insurance information with all parties involved in the accident.
Document the scene thoroughly by taking photos of vehicle damage, your injuries, road conditions, traffic signals and the overall accident site from multiple angles. If there are witnesses, politely ask for their contact information and a brief statement about what they observed.
It’s crucial to notify your insurance company about the accident promptly, but keep your statements factual and concise.
How Is Fault Determined In A Motorcycle Accident?
Determining fault in Florida motorcycle accidents involves examining multiple factors. Law enforcement officers create an initial assessment, but this is just the starting point in establishing liability.
Insurance companies and attorneys investigate by analyzing physical evidence, reviewing traffic camera footage when available and examining vehicle damage patterns. Witness statements often provide crucial perspectives that help establish how the collision occurred.
Florida’s comparative negligence system means that fault can be distributed among multiple parties, and your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault, making a thorough investigation essential.
How Long Do I Have To File A Claim After A Motorcycle Accident In Florida?
Florida law establishes a four-year statute of limitations for most personal injury claims resulting from motorcycle accidents. This means you generally have four years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit against the at-fault party.
While four years may seem like ample time, it’s strongly recommended to consult with an attorney as soon as possible after your accident. Crucial evidence can disappear quickly, witness memories fade and insurance companies typically begin building their defense immediately.
Different deadlines may apply in special circumstances. If your accident involved a government entity, you may have just three years to file a notice of claim. In wrongful death cases, the statute of limitations shrinks to two years from the date of death.
Call Today For Aggressive Representation In Florida
The legal team at Walborsky Bradley & Fleming, PLLC, understands the dynamics of motorcycle accidents, and we will aggressively pursue justice for you. Our extensive knowledge helps us maximize your recovery.
Contact us online or call us locally at 850-434-8484 or toll free at 850-434-8484 to schedule your free initial consultation.