Best Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Clearwater, FL

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Clearwater, Florida?

  People in Clearwater can reach the local police department for non-emergency queries by dialing (727) 562-4242.

• Where can you get a copy of the police report for the accident in Clearwater, Florida?

  People can file a request for accident reports in person at the Clearwater Police Department or the Florida Highway Patrol station closest to the accident after 60 days from the date of its occurrence. They can also request copies online from www.flhsmv.gov or https://clearwaterfl.mycusthelp.com/WEBAPP/_rs/(S(kgphx0xji0ylcscomghmwwtb))/RequestSelect.aspx?. The Clearwater Police Department is located at 645 Pierce Street and is open from 8 am to 4 pm.

• What counts as distracted driving in motorcycle accident cases within Clearwater?

  Distracted driving in Clearwater falls into three categories: visual, manual, and cognitive. These involve taking one's eyes off the road, letting go of a steering wheel, or thinking about matters other than driving, respectively. These classifications were specified in line with Florida's Wireless Communications While Driving law, which prohibits motorists from using their cellphones while on the road. Motorcycle riders who fail to adhere to the law's mandates can be fined or have their licenses suspended.

• How common are motorcycle accidents in Clearwater?

  Motorcycle accidents in Clearwater can be considered relatively frequent based on statistics tallied by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles in 2021. In its findings, the department recorded 432 motorcycle crashes in Pinellas County, where Clearwater is located. Over 380 of these involved injuries, while 29 ended in fatalities. These numbers add to Florida's total of over 8,600 motorcycle accidents in that year, which resulted in more than 7,300 injuries and over 620 deaths.

• Are helmets required for motorcycle riders in Clearwater?

  People in Clearwater and the rest of Florida below the age of 21 must wear helmets while riding or operating a motorcycle in adherence to state laws. In addition, all riders are required to wear protective eye gear regardless of age. Riders who are older than 21 may not wear helmets provided that they possess an insurance policy with a minimum coverage of $10,000 for injuries in a potential accident.

• How long does a plaintiff in a motorcycle accident case in Clearwater have to file a claim?

  Plaintiffs of motorcycle accident cases within Clearwater have up to four years from the date of an accident to file an injury claim, in line with Florida's statute of limitations. The same applies for claims involving the damage or total loss of a vehicle. In case a victim dies due to the injuries from a crash later on, plaintiffs have two years from the date of the victim's passing to file a wrongful death claim.

• Is a motorcycle accident victim in Clearwater barred from filing a claim if they are partially liable?

  No, motorcycle accident victims throughout Clearwater are not prohibited from filing claims for damages even if they are partially responsible. However, in accordance with Florida's pure comparative negligence law, their potential settlements can be deducted based on the fault attributed to them in court. This applies to both recoverable economic and non-economic damages.

• What does a motorcycle accident attorney do?

  Motorcycle accident attorneys provide legal advice, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent accident victims in and out of court. They investigate the cause of collisions, establish fault, value claims, prepare legal documents, and fight to recover adequate compensation for their clients. Most lawyers in this practice area also handle car and truck accidents and other personal injury claims.

• What is my motorcycle accident injury claim worth?

  Injured motorcyclists may be eligible for several types of compensation depending on their losses, state of residence, and level of fault. Whether or not they were wearing a helmet may also come into play. A lawyer can help to evaluate claims based on medical expenses, property damage, past and future lost wages, loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, and emotional trauma.

• How long after a motorcycle accident can you claim an injury?

  The statute of limitations for personal injury claims is typically two years from the date of the accident. However, each state has its own rules. In Tennessee and Louisiana, for example, victims of motorcycle accidents have just one year to file a lawsuit. In Maine, Minnesota, and North Dakota, individuals have up to six years to initiate a claim.

• What is the average settlement for a motorcycle accident injury?

  Based on eight years of national data, the average verdict in motorcycle accident cases ranges from $74,000 to $560,000. Also note that the majority of claims are settled out of court. Riders may receive compensatory damages for medical bills, property damage, and lost wages, as well as general damages for emotional trauma, pain and suffering, and loss of consortium. Additionally, in states that follow a comparative negligence model, the plaintiff’s claim may be reduced according to his or her level of fault.

• What is the first thing I should do after a motorcycle accident?

  The steps that you take immediately after a collision can be instrumental in proving an accident or injury claim. In general, you should follow these guidelines:

  • Gather insurance and contact information from the other driver and any witnesses.
  • Contact law enforcement to report the collision and complete an accident report.
  • Document injuries, property damage, and road conditions.
  • Visit a doctor or hospital within 24 hours.
  • Avoid discussing the accident with the other driver or their insurance company.

  
  

• How does the motorcycle injury claim process work?

  Motorcycle accident cases typically start with an insurance claim. After documenting their client’s losses and establishing fault, attorneys generally prepare a demand letter requesting compensation from the other driver’s insurance company. It can take anywhere from one to six months for insurance adjusters to make a settlement offer. If the company denies the claim or the parties can’t reach an agreement, the lawyer can prepare a notice of intent to sue and file a formal lawsuit with the appropriate court.

• How do many motorcycle crashes happen?

  The most common causes for motorcycle collisions are drunk driving, exceeding the speed limit, and left turns. In 42% of all motorcycle collision fatalities, another vehicle turned left in front of an oncoming motorcycle. Motorcycle accidents are also caused by dangerous road conditions, such as crumbling pavement, debris in the road, and potholes. Other factors that contribute to motorcycle accidents include unsafe lane changes, sudden stops, lane splitting, inexperienced drivers, motorcycle defects, and car doors opened in the path of a motorcycle.

• How many motorcyclists get into accidents?

  In 2017, of the over 8 million motorcycle riders that year, approximately 89,000 were injured in motorcycle accidents and over 5,000 motorcycle collisions resulted in fatalities. The fatality rate for 100 million miles driven is 25.67, which is largely attributed to the lack of helmet use. Most fatal crashes involving motorcycles happened during the heaviest traffic times between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m.

• Are motorcycles more dangerous than cars?

  Motorcycles are more dangerous than cars because they lack any protection for the rider in the event of an accident. Motorcyclists are 27 times more likely to die in a crash and more than five times more likely to be injured than those riding in enclosed vehicles. Because of their small size, motorcycles’ lack of visibility is a major contributing factor in collisions with other vehicles. Motorcycles are also more vulnerable to weather conditions and road hazards than other automobiles.

• How do you check a motorcycle after a crash?

  For a minor crash with no injuries, the immediate danger is being struck again by oncoming traffic, so moving your bike off of the road as soon as possible is imperative. Check your mirrors, brake lights, headlight, and controls. You should also check to make sure there is no leaking fluid, such as fuel or oil.