Here in South Florida, motorcyclists have the benefit of being able to ride their motorcycles year-round. But unfortunately, riding motorcycles in Florida can be dangerous. According to the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, in 2018 there approximately 9,143 motorcycle crashes with 531 motorcycle deaths.[1] In fact, on a national level, Florida consistently ranks near the top among all states for the total number of motorcycle deaths.[2]
At Barthelette Law, we recognize how serious these types of accidents can be. In motorcycle accidents, injuries are often quite serious given the lack of airbags and other safety features found in automobiles.
Injuries can include:
- Spinal cord injuries
- Head injuries
- Broken bones
- Burns
- Paralysis
- Other serious injuries.
How Much Is My Motorcycle Accident Case Worth?
Clients almost always ask what the settlement value of their case is worth. To determine the settlement value of their motorcycle injury case, there are several factors that must be considered and evaluated.
First, you must evaluate liability. While each motorcycle accident case is different, common causes include: (1) speeding, particularly where the at-fault driver does not recognize and appreciate the speed of the motorcyclist; (2) debris and defects in the road; (3) drivers not seeing the motorcyclist; (4) distracted driving; and, (5) drunk driving. However, while motorcyclists are often injured as a result of another driver’s negligence, this is not always the case and so each case must be judged on its individual merits.
Second, you must evaluate the extent of injuries and medical care and treatment. Because of the nature of motorcycles, injuries are usually more serious in these types of accidents than in car accidents. Because of this, medical bills can be high which increases the settlement value of the case.
Third, you must evaluate the long-term effects of the motorcycle accident. If the accident results in permanent injury or affects the motorcyclist’s ability to work, the settlement value will increase.
Fourth, you must consider the available insurance coverage. It’s possible the at-fault driver has no insurance coverage, minimal insurance coverage, or sufficient insurance coverage – it simply depends on the driver.
Does PIP Kick In After My Motorcycle Accident?
One final thought. In Florida, motorcyclists would probably be surprised to learn their automobile’s personal injury protection does not apply to medical bills from a motorcycle accident. This means that the motorcyclist will immediately be responsible for his or her medical bills. So it is critical to call us at Barthelette Law, your South Florida motorcycle accident attorneys, to immediately help you address the financial and medical issues that will follow your accident.1
If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident, don’t hesitate to call Barthelette Law, your South Florida motorcycle accident attorney.
Source:
[1] https://www.flhsmv.gov/pdf/crashreports/crash_facts_2018.pdf
[2] https://crashstats.nhtsa.dot.gov/Api/Public/ViewPublication/812785