Tampa Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Comprehensive Auto Accident Law Representation in Tampa

The state of Florida has the second-highest number of registered motorcyclists in the United States. It also leads the country in fatal motorcycle accidents per year. Motorcycle accidents are often caused by negligent and distracted drivers, which often results in injured motorcycle drivers and passengers contacting an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer for representation.

If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a motorcycle accident, you have the right to file a personal injury lawsuit seeking compensation for funeral expenses and medical bills, among other things. An experienced attorney can help you through this process, collecting witness statements, negotiating possible settlements, and communicating with insurance companies.

At Dennis A. Lopez & Associates, our team has more than 30 years of experience in personal injury cases. We are dedicated to your health and well-being – and we don’t get paid unless you win. Contact our office for a free consultation.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

The most common causes of motorcycle accidents include:

• • Distracted Drivers – Because people driving motorcycles can be difficult to see on the roadway, drivers must pay adequate attention or risk hitting someone driving a motorcycle. Distracted drivers often make dangerous lane changes, rear-end motorcycles, and run motorcyclists off the road.
  • Drunk Drivers – When someone chooses to drive while intoxicated, everyone on the roadway is put in danger. Motorcyclists face particularly dangerous odds. A drunk driver may not watch the road closely enough to notice them and crash directly into them.
  • Aggressive Drivers – Road rage is a hazard for everyone. But aggressive drivers can threaten motorcyclists after becoming frustrated with traffic, leading to serious accidents.
  • Traffic Violations – The most common motorcycle accident occurs when a vehicle turns left in front of a forward-traveling motorcyclist. Drivers of all vehicles must watch the roadway closely, following the speed limit, yielding when instructed to do so, and stopping when told. Otherwise, motorcyclists pay the price.
  • Roadway Hazards – Bad weather and hazardous conditions are dangerous for people driving a motorcycle. The worst obstructions include potholes, gravel, and uneven payment. Any of these issues can lead to a motorcyclist losing control.
  • Defective Parts – While most motorcycle accidents are caused by negligent drivers, some are caused by defective parts. In these cases, a motorcycle accident lawyer can assist in holding the manufacturer accountable for financial compensation.

Not sure what caused your motorcycle accident? An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer will contact witnesses, read police reports, and conduct interviews to find the answer.

Possible Injuries

Injuries sustained in common motorcycle accidents include:

• • Skull Fractures
  • Traumatic Brain Injuries
  • Broken Arms, Wrists, or Hands
  • Fractured Leg Bones
  • Neck or Back Injuries
  • Internal Organ Injuries

Wearing a full-coverage helmet can significantly reduce the risk of serious or fatal injury following a motorcycle accident. Still, injuries can be substantial and long-lasting, leading to physical therapy, pain medication, medical equipment, and health assistance – all of which can be reimbursed through financial compensation won in a personal injury lawsuit.

Statistics and Facts

Drivers of passenger vehicles often blame motorcyclists for accidents. The following statistics tell a different story:

• • Roughly 75 percent of motorcycle accidents involve collisions with another vehicle
  • More than 65 percent of multi-vehicle accidents involving a motorcycle are caused by the other vehicle violating the motorcycle’s right of way
  • Intersections are the most likely place for a motorcycle accident.
  • Most accidents occur while a motorcyclist is taking a short trip for shopping, errands, or entertainment.
  • A typical motorcycle accident gives the motorcycle driver less than two seconds to complete all avoidance or defensive action.

Motorcycle drivers face a distinct disadvantage on the roadway. When negligent or distracted drivers cause serious injury to a motorcyclist, they should be held responsible.

Steps to Take Following an Accident

If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, there are several important steps to follow.

• Step 1: If you feel discomfort in your back or neck, do not move. If not, remove yourself from the roadway to avoid further injury.
• Step 2: Seek medical attention by contacting first responders or asking a witness to do so.
• Step 3: Take photos of the accident while waiting for responders to arrive, if possible.
• Step 4: Write down the name and badge numbers of responding officers and request a police report be written. Get a copy of this report.
• Step 5: Contact a motorcycle accident lawyer, allowing you to focus on recovery while your team focuses on getting the compensation you deserve.