Palm Bay
Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Motorcycle travel is a popular way to take in Florida’s beautiful landscape. In Central Florida, motorcyclists enjoy riding the scenic Palm Bay Loop. The loop traverses through Titusville, Cocoa, Melbourne, and ends in Palm Bay. The sense of freedom experienced when riding a motorcycle can be exhilarating. Nevertheless, safety is also of paramount importance. Motorcycle accident fatalities increased by three percent between 2015 and 2020.

Common causes of motorcycle accidents

Motorcycle riders are especially vulnerable on the Florida roads. The absence of a roof and sidewalls means motorcycles do not have the physical structure to absorb impact in the event of a collision. Therefore, drivers should be especially mindful of motorcycle riders on the road. Common ways motor vehicles cause motorcycle accidents include:

• unsafe lane change
• sudden stops
• driving under the influence
• speeding

Unsafe lane changes

Making safe, legal lane changes is imperative when sharing the road with a motorcyclist. A driver who does not carefully check his or her blind spots prior to changing lanes may not see a motorcycle in the adjacent lane. Sudden lane changes may also cause a motorcycle accident if the motorcyclist does not have an appropriate amount of time to avoid a collision.

Sudden stops cause motorcycle accidents

Sudden stops endanger motorcycle riders in several ways. It is true that motorcycles have a shorter stopping distance than other vehicles. Nevertheless, if a car makes a sudden stop in front of a motorcycle, the motorcycle may collide with the car. The force of making a sudden stop on a motorcycle may cause the rider to be ejected off the motorcycle. After being ejected, the rider may strike any objects in his or her path before falling onto the ground.

Driving under the Influence of drugs and alcohol

Driving under the influence is dangerous to everyone else on the road. An impaired driver has a delayed reaction time. He or she is less likely to actively maintain awareness of other vehicles on the road. Intoxicated drivers are less able to anticipate the moves of motorcyclists on the road. They may also veer out of their lane or drive erratically in a manner that does not allow a motorcycle rider to react and avoid an accident.

Speeding a factor in motorcycle accidents

Speeding is often a factor in Florida motorcycle accidents. Driving faster than the speed limit increases the risk of an accident taking place. Cars and trucks that travel too fast have more difficulty making sudden stops. Therefore, they are less likely to be able to avoid a motorcycle that makes a last-minute lane change or suddenly stops in front of the vehicle. People often are less able to control their vehicles when driving too fast. A lack of control increases the risk of swerving into an adjacent lane and unintentionally cutting off the path of a motorcycle or causing a collision. Speeding does not only refer to exceeding the posted speed limit. Driving too fast in hazardous road conditions or when visibility is limited may also increase the risk of causing a motorcycle accident.

Mechanical factors may contribute

In some cases, neither the driver nor the motorcycle rider is at fault. Manufacturing defects may also cause a motorcycle accident. A faulty tire may suddenly deflate, causing the motorcycle to veer out of its lane and collide with a vehicle or object on the side of the road. If there is an issue with the way a motorcycle was assembled, mechanical failure may cause injury to a motorcyclist while operating the motorcycle. For example, improperly assembled brakes may cause the rider to have difficulty stopping. If the motorcycle strikes another vehicle, the injured party may file a claim against the manufacturer. If a separate manufacturer produces a defective part or component of the motorcycle, the manufacturer of the part may also be liable in the event of an accident.

Other parties who may be liable

Sometimes property owners may create hazards that cause motorcycle accidents. If a motorcyclist falls while riding in a parking lot or poorly-maintained pavement, the property owner or other entity that is responsible for maintaining the parking lot may be liable. Commercial property owners should be mindful of the condition of the pavement, navigation lanes, and signs to help drivers remain safe and avoid accidents. Individuals who own property that lies adjacent to a road should ensure trees and fixtures on their property do not interfere with the safety of those who are traveling on the road.

Filing a claim for Palm Bay motorcycle accident injuries

Motorcycle accident victims may be entitled to compensation if their injuries were caused by a hazard created by someone else. The other party’s insurance company will likely offer a settlement. However, insurance companies often offer settlement amounts that may be less than the victim is entitled to under Florida law. Motorcycle accident victims and their families should consult a Palm Bay personal injury attorney immediately after an accident takes place. Personal injury lawyers handle all pre-trial negotiations with the insurance company. In the event that the insurance company is unwilling to settle for a fair amount, the motorcycle accident attorney will represent the victim in court.

Compensation for related injuries

Motorcycle injuries may range from relatively minor to very severe, including death. The injured party may file a claim to receive compensation for his or her medical expenses, time away from work, and, in some cases, pain and suffering. If the accident victim is severely injured, his or her family members may be entitled to receive compensation for loss of consortium, loss of income, and funeral expenses.

Retain a motorcycle accdient lawyer in Palm Bay

The first step to getting the compensation you deserve is to contact a lawyer. Our attorney is available to provide a free case evaluation and advise you regarding the next steps. Contact us today, and let us fight for your rights!