Sarasota Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Although the number of fatal motorcycle accidents occurring across the nation has decreased significantly in recent years, this has unfortunately, not been the case in Florida, where fatal motorcycle accidents have increased by nearly 30 percent across the state. Tragically, many of these accidents could have been avoided were it not for the negligent or reckless conduct of one or more parties. Fortunately, these individuals can be held accountable and required to pay damages to the injured party and his or her family, so if you or a loved one were injured in a motorcycle accident, it is important to contact an experienced Sarasota motorcycle accident attorney about your legal options.
Motorcycle Accident Causes
Like any type of accident, motorcycle crashes can and do occur for a variety of reasons. There are certain situations, however, that do seem to occur especially often. For instance, many motorcycle accidents involve head-on collisions with vehicles because a left turning motorcyclist was struck by a vehicle traveling in the opposite direction. It is also not uncommon for motorcyclists to be injured when they are sideswiped or struck by a vehicle passing on their left. These types of accidents can often be traced to speeding and distraction, as motorcycles are generally more difficult to see than their much larger counterparts. Following motorcycles too closely is also extremely dangerous, as even minor fender benders between motorcyclists and motorists can have devastating consequences for the far less protected rider.
Although most motorcycle accidents involve another vehicle, some can be linked not to another person’s negligence, but to an agency’s lack of care. For instance, road defects, such as cracked asphalt, uneven surfaces, and potholes, while annoying to motorists, can prove deadly for motorcyclists. If a city or a private company was responsible for maintaining the roads and failed to do so, thereby causing an accident, it could be held liable for resulting damages. It is worth noting, however, that filing a lawsuit against a government agency is difficult, as it requires compliance with specific time lines and filing rules, making it especially important for motorcycle riders who were injured in this type of accident, to contact an attorney for assistance.
Typical Injuries
Because they are much more exposed than motorists, motorcyclists are at risk of sustaining life-threatening injuries, even in relatively minor accidents. Typical injuries range in severity and include:
- Abrasions and contusions;
- Amputated limbs;
- Compound bone fractures;
- Facial fractures;
- Head trauma;
- Organ damage and internal bleeding;
- Road rash;
- Severe lacerations; and
- Spinal cord injuries.
Treating these types of catastrophic injuries can be ruinously expensive, as injured parties are often required to foot the bill for emergency transportation and treatment, multiple hospital stays, surgery, physical therapy, prescription medications, medical equipment, and in some cases, nursing care. In some situations, collecting compensation from the person or entity who caused an accident is the only way for an injured party to stay financially afloat.
Contact Our Sarasota Motorcycle Accident Legal Team
If you have questions or concerns about filing a claim against the person who caused your own motorcycle accident, please call the HD Law Partners at 800-876-3392 for a free case evaluation.
