Best Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Palm Bay, FL

FAQs

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

  To reach Palm Bay's non-emergency services by phone, dial (321) 952-3456 and select option "0."

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

  Send an email to Police.Records@pbfl.org with all relevant information, including the date, time, location, and case number, to request records. The records lobby window is open from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., Monday through Friday, excluding holidays.

• What should you do immediately after a Palm Bay motorcycle accident?

  In the event of a motorcycle accident in Palm Bay, it is critical to act quickly and take specific steps to ensure your safety and legal protection. The first step is to move away from the scene of the accident and go to a safe location. Regardless of the severity of your injuries, contact emergency services, including the police and an ambulance. Keep your motorcycle in its current position and wear your protective gear, such as your helmet. Try to take photos of  the scene, gather witness information, and avoid confrontation with the other driver. Finally, wait for traffic officers to arrive, process the scene, and assist you.

• What should you do if the other driver flees the scene after a motorcycle accident in Palm Bay?

  If the other driver flees the scene of a Palm Bay motorcycle accident, gathering information can be challenging. However, try to remain calm and focus on memorizing as much detail about the driver and their vehicle as possible. Take note of their license plate number, car make and model, and any unique features. It is crucial to share this information with law enforcement as soon as possible to assist with the investigation and potential prosecution of the errant driver.

• Which locations in Palm Bay are frequently the site of motorcycle accidents?

  U.S. Highway 1 from Malabar Road to Robert J. Conlan Boulevard and Babcock Street from Palm Bay Road to U.S. Highway 192 in Melbourne are among the roads in Palm Bay that are prone to motorcycle accidents, according to Florida Today's annual crash statistics. The data also highlights U.S. Highway 1 from the Indian River County line to Malabar Road and Babcock Street from Malabar Road to Palm Bay Road as locations with a high number of accidents that result in fatalities or serious injuries.

• What are the common causes of motorcycle accidents in Palm Bay?

  A variety of factors can contribute to motorcycle accidents in Palm Bay. These factors include poor road maintenance, inclement weather, and individuals who drive under the influence, disregard traffic laws, or fail to maintain their vehicles. Because of their lack of protection, motorcycle riders are more vulnerable to serious injuries. Brevard County Public Works maintains approximately 1,100 miles of lineal roadways, and issues such as deteriorating pavement and missing guardrails can make the roads dangerous for drivers.

• How can one establish liability in a Palm Bay motorcycle accident?

  To prove who was at fault in a motorcycle accident, it is important to gather evidence that shows the other person was negligent or at fault. This evidence can include eyewitness accounts, police reports, medical records, and accident reconstruction. An experienced personal injury attorney can help gather and present this evidence to establish liability and pursue compensation for 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.