Motorcycle Accidents

Look Twice to Prevent Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycles have increased their presence on the roads throughout the years.

Motorcycle accidents are more common than you might think. Whether riding a Harley-Davidson, a Kawasaki street-bike, or any other make, a biker always needs to be aware of his or her surroundings. No matter how careful a rider is, though, there is no accounting for the negligence of other motorists, especially in the increasingly busy streets of South Florida.

Motorcycle accidents can result in serious injuries and have specific legal implications, especially when it comes to personal injury law in Florida. You might be asking yourself how to fully protect your rights when it comes to a motorcycle accident, read on for more information:

  1. Comparative Fault System: Florida follows a pure comparative fault system, which means that even if a motorcyclist is partially at fault for an accident, they can still seek compensation for their injuries. However, the amount of compensation they receive may be reduced by their percentage of fault.

  2. Personal Injury Protection (PIP): Florida law requires all vehicle owners to carry personal injury protection (PIP) insurance, including motorcyclists. However, motorcycles are exempt from PIP coverage. This means that motorcycle riders do not have the same insurance coverage available for medical expenses and lost wages as drivers of other vehicles.

  3. Helmet Laws: In Florida, motorcycle riders over the age of 21 who carry at least $10,000 in medical insurance coverage can choose not to wear a helmet. However, not wearing a helmet may impact a rider's ability to recover full compensation for head injuries in the event of an accident.

  4. Statute of Limitations: The statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit in Florida is generally four years from the date of the accident. It's crucial to initiate legal proceedings within this timeframe, as failing to do so may result in the court dismissing the case.

Motorcycle accident on the road

5. Bodily Injury Liability (BIL) Insurance: Florida law requires motorcycle riders to carry a minimum of $10,000 in bodily injury liability insurance per person and $20,000 per accident. This coverage is designed to compensate others for injuries or damages if the rider is at fault in an accident.

6. Seeking Legal Representation: Due to the complex nature of personal injury cases involving motorcycle accidents, it is generally recommended to consult with an experienced personal injury attorney like Larry D. Parks who has been fighting for the rights of personal injury victims for decades.

Contact our offices today by clicking below for a free consultation and make sure your rights are protected:

Contact Larry today if you feel you may have been the victim of personal injury while riding your motorcycle due to the negligence of another motorist.