Tallahassee Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Get Help from Our Experienced Leon County Personal Injury Lawyer

At Shapiro Law Firm, P.A., our Tallahassee motorcycle accident lawyer understands how dangerous it can be to ride motorcycles. Thousands of motorcyclists are killed in traffic accidents in the U.S. per year, and tens of thousands are injured. Many of these injuries and deaths could have been prevented if more motorcycle riders and their passengers wore helmets.

Currently, only 19 states require helmet use by riders of all ages. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that helmets save more than 1,000 lives per year and could save nearly double that amount if everyone who suffers an accident wears a helmet.

To find out more about how we can assist you, contact us today at (850) 629-7226. The sooner our motorcycle accident lawyers in Tallahassee start work on your case, the better!

Increased Risks for Motorcyclists in Traffic

It is an undisputed fact that motorcyclists are more likely than passenger car occupants to die or suffer great injury in a motor vehicle traffic crash. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 5,286 people died in motorcycle crashes in 2016, the highest number since 2008.

Although there are far fewer motorcyclists than passenger vehicle drivers in the U.S., motorcyclists account for a significant percentage of traffic deaths.

In Florida, motorcyclists are subject to the same speed restrictions as other vehicles. All motorcyclists are required to drive at a speed that is reasonable and prudent. Fla. Stat. § 316.183.

Any speed in excess of the following speeds is evidence of unreasonable driving:

• 15 mph approaching a school crossing
• 25 mph in a business or residential district
• 65 mph in other location

Aggressive Legal Representation for Tallahassee Riders

Our Tallahassee motorcycle accident lawyer has the knowledge and skill necessary to pursue maximum compensation. We believe that if you have sustained an injury due to another person's recklessness, you deserve compensation to help with medical costs.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Tallahassee

Tallahassee, the capital of Florida, features a mix of busy urban areas and serene rural roads, presenting diverse challenges for motorcycle riders. One common cause of accidents is the failure of other vehicle drivers to yield the right of way to motorcyclists. This often occurs at intersections or while making turns, where car and truck drivers may not anticipate a motorcycle's approach due to its smaller silhouette. Additionally, the absence of dedicated motorcycle lanes increases the risk of side-swipe accidents, especially on congested urban streets.

Poor road conditions are another contributing factor to motorcycle accidents in Tallahassee. Potholes, debris, and uneven surfaces can be treacherous, causing loss of control, particularly for less experienced riders. Weather conditions, notably sudden rain showers typical of Florida, can further exacerbate road hazards by reducing traction and visibility. As a result, motorcyclists must exercise heightened caution, maintaining safe distances and moderating speed to navigate these challenges effectively.

Understanding Motorcycle Accident Injuries & Claims

Motorcycle operators and riders often suffer severe injuries when involved in an accident with a motor vehicle. Even when wearing a helmet, the injuries sustained by motorcycle accident victims can be catastrophic. That is why anyone injured in a motorcycle accident should get information about important motorcycle accident facts from an attorney experienced in these types of cases.

Seeking the counsel of an experienced attorney will help to ensure that victims receive full compensation for their injuries. At Shapiro Law Firm, P.A. our motorcycle accident lawyer in Tallahassee is well-versed in the law surrounding motorcycle accidents, and we are prepared to aggressively pursue compensation on behalf of accident victims.

Call our firm today at (850) 629-7226. Our Tallahassee motorcycle accident attorney can get started on your case with a free consultation.

Motorcycle Accident Statistics

Here are a few motorcycle accident facts from Paul Shapiro, an experienced attorney at Shapiro Law Firm, P.A.:

• Motorcycle operators make up nearly 14% of all traffic fatalities and 4% of all passengers injured in motor vehicle accidents.
• Nearly 2/3 of all motorcycle accidents involving another vehicle result from the vehicle's driver not seeing the motorcyclist.
• In Florida, only 44% of the motorcyclists killed in vehicle accidents were wearing helmets.
• Before 2008, the majority of motorcycle fatalities involved people 29 years and younger. But, as that number decreased, the number of fatalities in the 50 years and older group increased and has been the majority since 2008.

What percentage of motorcycle riders get into accidents? In 2017, according to the NHTSA, for every 100,000 registered motorcycle drivers, approximately 1,018 were injured in an accident, and approximately 59 were killed. While these numbers are specific to 2017, the injury and fatality rates have remained fairly consistent over the last decade.

Tips for Staying Safe on Your Motorcycle

• Wear a helmet. Not only could wearing a helmet save your life, but it can also prevent debilitating injuries to your brain if you survive the accident. In Florida, all motorcycle riders under the age of 21 are required to wear a helmet.
• Don’t drive drunk. This should be a fairly obvious one. If you are drunk, your sense of judgment could be severely impaired, making it more likely that you will get into an accident.
• Follow all driving rules. The number of deaths associated with motorcycle speeding is higher than for any other type of vehicle accident associated with speeding.
• Watch for hazards. Potholes, cracks, bumps, and oncoming traffic can be dangerous for you and your motorcycle. In addition, inclement weather conditions such as rain, sleet, and snow can increase your chances of being involved in a crash.

Get Legal Advocacy on Your Side

Often, the driver of the motor vehicle involved in the motorcycle crash will argue that the motorcycle rider would not have been injured, or the injuries wouldn't have been as serious if he or she would have been wearing a helmet. Even if you were not wearing a helmet, however, you may still be able to receive compensation for your injuries.

What Should I Do Immediately Following a Motorcycle Accident?

Immediate action after a motorcycle accident is crucial for both health and legal reasons. First, ensure safety and seek medical attention, even if there are no apparent injuries, as some injuries manifest later. Next, report the incident to local authorities, ensuring an official police report is filed. Gather evidence at the scene, including photographs, witness contacts, and insurance information from other parties involved. These steps lay a critical foundation for any subsequent legal actions. Contacting a legal professional early can provide guidance on preserving evidence and improving the chances of a successful claim.

Why Choose Shapiro Law Firm, P.A. for Your Motorcycle Accident Claim?

Choosing the right legal representation is crucial for effectively navigating the complexities of a motorcycle accident claim. Shapiro Law Firm, P.A., with over 25 years of experience in personal injury law, offers dedicated attention and personalized service to clients. Our focus is solely on serving the injured, never representing corporate interests. Located conveniently in Leon County, we pride ourselves on our thorough approach, ready to go to trial where necessary, and ensuring no upfront fees hinder your ability to seek justice. Our free consultations provide a comprehensive case evaluation, equipping clients with the knowledge and confidence they need to proceed.

To learn more about how these motorcycle accident facts may impact your case, call an experienced Tallahassee motorcycle accident injury attorney at Shapiro Law Firm, P.A., at (850) 629-7226 today.