Best Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Miami Beach, FL

FAQs

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

  941-486-2444 is the Venice police's non-emergency number.

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

  The Venice Police Department keeps records at 1575 E Venice Ave, Venice, FL 34292.

• Why do motorcycle accidents happen in Venice?

  Motorcycle accidents in Venice are caused by negligent acts like driving while intoxicated. A motorist is also likely to violate traffic rules and regulations governing right-of-way and speed limits. The other driver could also be distracted and fail to see the motorcycle. The fault may also lie with the manufacturer of the motorcycle if it has fatal factory defects.

• What are the key pieces of evidence a car accident claimant in Venice should have?

  A car accident claimant in Venice should have a copy of the official police report matched with any videos and photos of the crash in order to show the nature and extent of injuries and property loss. Witness statements are also important, while medical records are invaluable for quantifying a claim for economic damages. The expert opinion of an accident reconstruction expert is also useful.

• Do you need to get assistance from a lawyer in Venice even if a motorcycle crash clearly is not your fault?

  Yes, you should get the assistance of lawyers in Venice even if the crash is not your fault. There remains a bias in the minds of the public against motorcyclists and a misconception that riders are thrill-seekers. Insurance companies will exploit this stereotype to minimize sums paid and pin the blame on the biker regardless of the facts.

• How long does a motorcycle accident claimant in Venice have to go to court?

  motorcycle accident claimant in Venice must go to court within four years of the incident because the applicable Florida law sets that specific time limit for actions founded on negligence. If there is a wrongful death, then the period is two years counted from when the death happened, which could be different from the time of the crash.

• What are the damages you can obtain in a motorcycle accident claim in Venice?

  In a motorcycle accident claim in Venice, you can claim a variety of economic damages that represent quantifiable monetary losses like the cost of medical treatments, lost wages and earning capacity due to recovery time and disability, and the expenses of fixing or repairing the wrecked property. Non-economic damages are possible for emotional trauma, and punitive damages are meted out when the defendant is grossly negligent.

• 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.