Riding a motorcycle is exhilarating. You can feel the sun and wind on your face as you drive on the road. Given this thrill, it is no wonder many people in Spring Hill ride motorbikes. Unfortunately, the same freedom that motorcycles provide also make bikers more vulnerable to severe injuries. Due to the lack of protection on these vehicles, motorcycle accidents often result in catastrophic or even fatal injuries.
If you were in a motorbike collision caused by someone else, reach out to a skilled personal injury attorney. A Spring Hill motorcycle accident lawyer can help you bring a legal claim against the person responsible. Attorney Mike Hancock has been handling motorcycle accident cases for over 30 years. His experience, combined with his passion to help those who were injured due to another’s negligence has served his clients well, producing millions of dollars for them in deserved settlements. Not only does a settlement help to cover expenses, but it also reduces your stress and allows you to keep the focus on healing.
Common Causes Of Motorcycle Traffic Collisions
Because motorcycles are smaller and more agile than other types of vehicles, there are numerous ways in which traffic collisions involving motorcyclists can occur. However, some of the more typical causes of motorbike accidents include:
- Failure to yield
- Tailgating
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Poorly maintained roadways
- Low visibility (e.g., driving at night)
Regardless of the specific cause of the collision, motorcycle accidents typically result in more severe bodily injuries than other vehicle crashes. Riders are often thrown from their vehicles, colliding directly with the other car or the ground. Common injuries we see after motorcycle crashes include:
- Brain Injuries
- Burns
- Broken or Fractured Limbs
- Paralysis
- Neck and Back Injuries
Determining the cause of the crash can help you indicate who may be held liable for your damages. A diligent injury attorney can review the facts of the motorcycle accident to determine the cause of the collision and begin preparing a legal claim.
What Is The Process Of Filing A Motorbike Accident Lawsuit?
Many times, we are able to settle your case with the at-fault party’s insurance company before actually filing a lawsuit. This is done through negotiations between Attorney Mike Hancock and the adjuster handling the claim. If no satisfactory agreement can be met, then we will take the next step to actually file a lawsuit.
The first step in a motorcycle accident lawsuit is filing a complaint against that at-fault party’s insurance company. In this legal document, you must describe the other person’s negligent actions and the harm you suffered as a result.
Once the complaint is filed and served to the negligent driver, and their insurance company you and your attorney will prepare for negotiations. First, you will go through the discovery phase, where you and the other party will exchange documents and other evidence to support your respective arguments. During this stage, you can attempt to settle the claim without going to court.
However, if the defendant refuses to provide compensation for the full scope of your injuries, the case will go to trial. In court, you will present your argument in front of a judge or jury, who then renders a verdict. Going to court can be intimidating, so it can be beneficial to retain an experienced trial lawyer familiar with motorbike collision cases.
How Long After an Accident Do You Have to File a Case?
As stated in Florida Statutes § 95.11(3)(a), motorcycle accident victims have two years to file a civil injury claim against the person or entity responsible for causing the crash, as provided under § 95.11(3)(a) of the Florida Statutes. Failure to file your claim within that time could result in the loss of your right to recover financial compensation. It is strongly encouraged that you obtain legal representation as soon as possible to mitigate the potential loss of compensation.
What Types Of Compensation Can You Recover After A Collision In Spring Hill?
The monetary damages you can recover after an accident are called compensatory damages because they are awarded to compensate for your economic and non-economic losses. Fla. Stat. § 766.202(3) define economic damages as the pecuniary losses you suffer due to an injury. These might include:
- Loss of income
- Medical bills
- Vehicle damage
Under Fla. Stat. § 766.202(8), non-economic damages are defined as the non-financial losses you incur due to your injuries, such as:
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress,
- Loss of capacity for enjoyment in life
- Disfigurement
- Physical impairment
A dedicated lawyer can help you calculate all your compensable losses following a severe motorcycle crash.
Contact A Spring Hill Motorcycle Accident Attorney For Legal Help
Motorcycle accidents can be brutally devastating for those involved. The significant financial losses you incur can include substantial medical bills and extensive vehicle damage.
If you or your loved one were seriously injured in this type of collision in Hernando County or a nearby area, you can take the first step to protect your legal rights today by calling and speaking to a Spring Hill motorcycle accident lawyer about your claim. Take the first step in seeking restitution from the party responsible for your injuries, we will take it from there.