Bradenton Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
Bradenton Motorcycle Accident Attorneys
Manatee County frequently witnesses severe motorcycle accidents, and Bradenton is no exception. Streets like 53rd Avenue East and Cortez Road are known hotspots for motorcycle crashes. A motorcycle accident can leave you facing severe injuries, extensive medical bills, and uncertain recovery. The experienced motorcycle accident lawyers at Lesser, Landy, Smith & Siegel, PLLC are here to guide you through every step and help you pursue the compensation you need to rebuild your life. Call us at (941) 227-4677 for a free consultation.
What Sets Motorcycle Accidents Apart
Vulnerability on the Road
Motorcyclists face heightened risks due to the lack of protective barriers, making them more susceptible to severe injuries in collisions.
Common Injuries and Their Impact
Some of the more common injuries experienced in a motorcycle crash are:
- Head Injuries: Traumatic brain injuries can occur even with helmet use.
- Spinal Injuries: Potentially leading to paralysis and extensive rehabilitation.
- Fractures and Road Rash: Often requiring surgery and long-term recovery.
These injuries can significantly influence the compensation you are entitled to. For example, traumatic brain injuries often require long-term care and rehabilitation, which impacts not only your immediate medical expenses but also your ability to work and your overall quality of life. Spinal injuries, particularly those leading to paralysis, may require home modifications and ongoing medical support. Fractures and severe road rash can lead to surgeries, extensive recovery times, and permanent scarring. We thoroughly assess these factors to ensure your compensation covers all aspects of your physical, emotional, and financial losses.
Establishing Fault
Investigating the Accident
Motorcycle accidents require a thorough investigation to determine fault. We examine all factors, including road conditions and driver behavior, to build a strong case on your behalf.
Florida’s Modified Comparative Fault
Florida’s modified comparative fault system can reduce your compensation if you are found partially at fault for the accident. To have a claim, your fault must be 50% or less. For example, if you are found 20% at fault for speeding, your compensation would be reduced by 20%. If the total damages were $100,000, you would receive $80,000. Our attorneys work diligently to minimize any assigned fault, ensuring you receive the maximum possible compensation based on the facts of your case.
Common Reasons for Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents in Bradenton often result from:
- Driver Inattention: Car drivers failing to notice motorcyclists, especially at intersections.
- Left-Turn Collisions: Drivers turning left across the path of an oncoming motorcycle.
- Lane Splitting: Motorcyclists passing between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic.
The cause of the accident directly shapes our strategy. Whether proving driver inattention, analyzing traffic flow for left-turn collisions, or addressing lane-splitting incidents, we use these specifics to strengthen your case and pursue the best possible outcome.
What to Expect During Your First Consultation
Preparing for Your Consultation
To make the most of your first meeting with our attorneys, consider the following:
- Bring All Documentation: Include medical records, police reports, and any correspondence with insurance companies.
- Prepare a Timeline: Detail the events leading up to and following the accident.
- List Your Questions: Write down any concerns or questions you have about the legal process.
Our Approach
During the consultation, we will:
- Review the details of your accident.
- Discuss your legal options and potential outcomes.
- Provide guidance on the next steps to take.
Our goal is to ensure you feel informed and supported from the very beginning.
Dealing with Insurance Companies After a Motorcycle Accident
Understanding Their Approach
Insurance companies often try to reduce the payout for motorcycle accident claims by attributing fault to the rider. They may offer settlements that fall short of covering your full range of injuries and losses to cover their bottom line.
Our Strategy
We counter these tactics by presenting clear, compelling evidence and advocating for fair compensation. We work diligently to ensure that you receive the settlement you deserve.
Florida Laws Affecting Motorcycle Accident Claims
Statute of Limitations
You have two years from the date of the accident to file a claim. Acting quickly will preserve your right to seek compensation. We ensure that your case is filed promptly and accurately.
Helmet Laws
Florida’s helmet laws can significantly impact your motorcycle accident claim. According to Fla. Stat. § 316.211, motorcyclists over 21 can ride without a helmet if they carry at least $10,000 in medical insurance coverage. However, not wearing a helmet can affect your case, especially if head injuries are involved. The opposing party may argue that the lack of helmet use contributed to the severity of the injuries, potentially reducing your compensation.
Lane Splitting
Lane splitting, the act of riding a motorcycle between lanes of traffic, is illegal in Florida under Fla. Stat. § 316.209. Motorcyclists must remain within a single lane and cannot overtake or pass a vehicle within the same lane. Violating this law can impact a motorcycle accident case, potentially reducing compensation if the motorcyclist is found partially at fault. However, we analyze all aspects, including driver behavior and road conditions, to build a strong defense and minimize any assigned fault.
Contact Lesser, Landy, Smith & Siegel for a Free Consultation
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, don’t wait to seek legal advice. Call (941) 227-4677 for a free consultation with the Bradenton motorcycle accident lawyers at Lesser, Landy, Smith & Siegel, PLLC. We are committed to helping you obtain the compensation necessary to regain your stability and move forward with your life.
