Florida’s warm weather offers the perfect climate for nearly year-round motorcycling. So, it makes sense that this outdoor pastime is more common than it is in other states. Motorcycle enthusiasts enjoy temperatures that allow for riding even in the winter. However, motorcycling is not risk-free. If you suffered an injury in a motorcycle crash, contact our Florida motorcycle accident injury lawyer to find out the steps to take to help ensure a fair recovery. The causes of motorcycle crashes

Common Causes of Florida Motorcycle Crashes

According to the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FHSMV), Florida has one of the highest rates of motorcycle accidents in the United States, with 8,639 crashes reported in 2021. Motorcycle accidents can happen for a variety of reasons but are often due to a negligent vehicle driver. Since motorcycles offer little protection from injuries, many crashes result in severe or fatal injuries.

Why Motorcyclists Are Injured

  • Left-hand turn. A vehicle driver making a left-hand turn is the most common reason for a motorcycle crash. This type of accident accounts for 42% of fatal motorcycle accidents and happens when a vehicle attempts to turn left while a motorcycle is headed straight or trying to pass.
  • Negligence. A vehicle driver’s negligence is another common cause of motorcycle accidents. When a driver is distracted, under the influence, driving recklessly, or speeding, they can cause a crash.
  • Blind spot. Drivers may not look in their blind spots and attempt to change lanes without seeing a motorcycle. When this happens, the motorcyclist has little time to react and cannot avoid the collision.
  • Open car door. An accident can happen if a driver is negligent and opens their parked car door without checking for nearby traffic, causing a motorcycle to collide with the open door or swerve into oncoming traffic.
  • Intersection collision. Many motorcycle crashes occur when a driver of a vehicle fails to see a motorcycle stopped at an intersection and collides with it. Intersection collisions can also happen if a driver fails to yield the right of way.
  • Road hazards. Hazards such as slick or icy roadways, poorly maintained roads, or missing road signs can increase the risk of an accident. While hazards are not always preventable, some are due to improperly maintained roads by a government agency.

If You’re Injured in a Motorcycle Crash

It’s possible for a motorcyclist to be involved in a crash and escape injury or walk away with just a few scrapes and bruises. But most aren’t so fortunate. When motorcyclists are thrown from their bikes, they can suffer broken bones, spinal cord injuries, and traumatic brain injuries.

Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Crash

  • Call for help. Seek immediate medical attention for any injuries, even if they appear minor, and report the accident to the police.
  • Collect evidence. If you can stay at the scene of the crash, collect evidence that can be used for your case. This may include photos of the scene, driver contact information, eyewitness contact information, and information about other vehicles involved in the accident.
  • Avoid talking to insurance companies. The other party’s insurance company may contact you immediately after the accident. You want to avoid talking to insurance adjusters who may pressure you to settle your claim quickly or admit fault for the accident. You are not obligated to give a recorded statement, and it’s best that you don’t.  Anything you say can be used against you.
  • Call Browning Law Firm. One of the most important steps to take is to contact a motorcycle accident injury lawyer as soon as possible. A motorcycle accident lawyer can help determine if you have a case. If another party is at fault, they will help you recover the damages you deserve.

When You Need a Florida Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

If you were injured in a Florida motorcycle accident, contact Browning Law Firm as soon as possible for a free, no-obligation consultation. We can help you navigate the legal process and help ensure you receive fair compensation. There are never any legal fees unless we win your case. To schedule an appointment, fill out our online contact form, or call us at 850-344-1736