Motorcycle Accidents in Fort Lauderdale
Motorcycle Accidents in Fort Lauderdale: What Every Rider Needs to Know
The Most Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries due to the lack of protective barriers. Some common injuries include:
- Head and Brain Injuries: Riders run a danger of concussions and traumatic brain damage even with a helmet.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: These injuries can lead to partial or complete paralysis. It requires long-term medical care.
- Fractures and Broken Bones: Arms, legs, and ribs are frequently broken in motorcycle crashes.
- Road Rash: A rider sliding on pavement can cause severe skin problems. These problems can lead to infections.
- Internal Injuries: Blunt force trauma can damage internal organs, sometimes without immediate symptoms.
Seeking medical attention after a crash is essential to diagnose and treat injuries properly. Additionally, consulting a motorcycle accident lawyer can help determine the extent of damages you may be entitled to claim.
Motorcycle Accident Laws: State by State Variations
- Helmet Law: Riders over 21 years old can legally ride without a helmet provided they carry medical insurance of at least $101,000.
- Comparative Fault Rule: Florida follows a modified comparative fault policy whereby, if you are at fault, your compensation will be reduced depending on your given percentage of fault.
- No-Fault Insurance Exception: Unlike automobile drivers, motorcyclists are not required to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance, which can affect how their medical expenses are covered after an accident.
Things to Do If the Insurance Company Says No Your Claim for a Motorcycle Accident
Insurance companies usually try to pay out as little as possible or refuse to pay claims at all. If your claim for a motorcycle accident is turned down, do these things:
- Read over the letter of denial: Make sure you know why your claim was turned down and check to see if there were any missing papers or mistakes.
- Get more proof: To make your case stronger, get police reports, medical records, and comments from witnesses.
- Object to the decision: You have the right to review a denied insurance claim, but you have to do it by the due date.
- Talk to an accident lawyer for motorcycles: A good lawyer can appeal the rejection, talk to the insurance company, and, if necessary, go to court to win the case.
Insurance companies often use holes in the law to avoid paying claims. By getting legal help, you can be sure that you have a representative who knows how to fight these tactics and get you the money you deserve.
Do You Need a Lawyer for a Motorcycle Accident Insurance Claim?
While you are not legally required to hire a lawyer for a motorcycle accident insurance claim, having professional legal representation significantly improves your chances of receiving fair compensation. Here’s why hiring a motorcycle accident lawyer is beneficial:
- Legal Expertise: A lawyer understands the intricacies of motorcycle accident laws and how to build a strong case.
- Negotiation Skills: Insurance companies often offer low settlements; an experienced lawyer can negotiate for a fair payout.
- Evidence Collection: Attorneys gather crucial evidence, including accident reconstruction, medical reports, and expert testimony, to support your claim.
- Court Representation: If negotiations fail, a lawyer can take your case to trial and fight for your rights in court.
Motorcycle accidents can lead to life-altering consequences, and dealing with insurance companies alone can be overwhelming. A motorcycle accident lawyer in Fort Lauderdale can help you navigate the legal process, ensuring you receive the maximum compensation possible.