Tallahassee Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Get Help from Our Experienced Leon County Personal Injury Lawyer

At Shapiro Law Firm, P.A., our Tallahassee motorcycle accident lawyer understands how dangerous it can be to ride motorcycles. Thousands of motorcyclists are killed in traffic accidents in the U.S. per year, and tens of thousands are injured. Many of these injuries and deaths could have been prevented if more motorcycle riders and their passengers wore helmets.

Currently, only 19 states require helmet use by riders of all ages. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that helmets save more than 1,000 lives per year and could save nearly double that amount if everyone who suffers an accident wore a helmet.

Smash the delay tactics. Call Shapiro Law Firm, P.A. at (850) 629-7226 now for a free motorcycle crash case review. No recovery, no fee.

Increased Risks for Motorcyclists in Traffic

It is an undisputed fact that motorcyclists are more likely than passenger car occupants to die or suffer great injury in a motor vehicle traffic crash. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 5,286 people died in motorcycle crashes in 2016, the highest number since 2008.

Although there are far fewer motorcyclists than passenger vehicle drivers in the U.S., motorcyclists account for a significant percentage of traffic deaths.

In Florida, motorcyclists are subject to the same speed restrictions as other vehicles. All motorcyclists are required to drive at a speed that is reasonable and prudent. Fla. Stat. § 316.183.

Any speed in excess of the following speeds is evidence of unreasonable driving:

• 15 mph approaching a school crossing
• 25 mph in a business or residential district
• 65 mph in another location

Aggressive Legal Representation for Tallahassee Riders

Our Tallahassee motorcycle accident lawyer has the knowledge and skill necessary to pursue maximum compensation. We believe that if you have sustained an injury due to another person's recklessness, you deserve compensation to help with medical costs.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Tallahassee

Tallahassee, the capital of Florida, features a mix of busy urban areas and serene rural roads, presenting diverse challenges for motorcycle riders. One common cause of accidents is the failure of other vehicle drivers to yield the right of way to motorcyclists. This often occurs at intersections or while making turns, where car and truck drivers may not anticipate a motorcycle's approach due to its smaller silhouette. Additionally, the absence of dedicated motorcycle lanes increases the risk of side-swipe accidents, especially on congested urban streets.

Poor road conditions are another contributing factor to motorcycle accidents in Tallahassee. Potholes, debris, and uneven surfaces can be treacherous, causing loss of control, particularly for less experienced riders. Weather conditions, notably sudden rain showers typical of Florida, can further exacerbate road hazards by reducing traction and visibility. As a result, motorcyclists must exercise heightened caution, maintaining safe distances and moderating speed to navigate these challenges effectively.

Understanding Motorcycle Accident Injuries & Claims

Motorcycle operators and riders often suffer severe injuries when involved in an accident with a motor vehicle. Even when wearing a helmet, the injuries sustained by motorcycle accident victims can be catastrophic. That is why anyone injured in a motorcycle accident should get information about important motorcycle accident facts from an attorney experienced in these types of cases.

Seeking the counsel of an experienced attorney will help to ensure that victims receive full compensation for their injuries. At Shapiro Law Firm, P.A., our motorcycle accident lawyer in Tallahassee is well-versed in the law surrounding motorcycle accidents, and we are prepared to aggressively pursue compensation on behalf of accident victims.

Motorcycle Accident Statistics

Here are a few motorcycle accident facts from Paul Shapiro, an experienced attorney at Shapiro Law Firm, P.A.:

• Motorcycle operators make up nearly 14% of all traffic fatalities and 4% of all passengers injured in motor vehicle accidents.
• Nearly 2/3 of all motorcycle accidents involving another vehicle result from the vehicle's driver not seeing the motorcyclist.
• In Florida, only 44% of the motorcyclists killed in vehicle accidents were wearing helmets.
• Before 2008, the majority of motorcycle fatalities involved people 29 years and younger. But, as that number decreased, the number of fatalities in the 50 years and older group increased and has been the majority since 2008.

What percentage of motorcycle riders get into accidents? In 2017, according to the NHTSA, for every 100,000 registered motorcycle drivers, approximately 1,018 were injured in an accident, and approximately 59 were killed. While these numbers are specific to 2017, the injury and fatality rates have remained fairly consistent over the last decade.

Tips for Staying Safe on Your Motorcycle

• Wear a helmet. Not only could wearing a helmet save your life, but it can also prevent debilitating injuries to your brain if you survive the accident. In Florida, all motorcycle riders under the age of 21 are required to wear a helmet.
• Don’t drive drunk. This should be a fairly obvious one. If you are drunk, your sense of judgment could be severely impaired, making it more likely that you will get into an accident.
• Follow all driving rules. The number of deaths associated with motorcycle speeding is higher than for any other type of vehicle accident associated with speeding.
• Watch for hazards. Potholes, cracks, bumps, and oncoming traffic can be dangerous for you and your motorcycle. In addition, inclement weather conditions such as rain, sleet, and snow can increase your chances of being involved in a crash.

What Should I Do Immediately Following a Motorcycle Accident?

Immediate action after a motorcycle accident is crucial for both health and legal reasons. First, ensure safety and seek medical attention, even if there are no apparent injuries, as some injuries manifest later. Next, report the incident to local authorities, ensuring an official police report is filed. Gather evidence at the scene, including photographs, witness contacts, and insurance information from other parties involved. These steps lay a critical foundation for any subsequent legal actions. Contacting a legal professional early can provide guidance on preserving evidence and improving the chances of a successful claim.

In the Tallahassee area, that often means contacting law enforcement such as the Tallahassee Police Department or the Leon County Sheriff’s Office so the crash is properly documented and, when necessary, making sure the Florida Highway Patrol responds to serious collisions on I-10, U.S. 27, or other major routes. It is also wise to keep copies of all medical records from local providers, whether you are treated at Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare, Capital Regional Medical Center, or a neighborhood urgent care clinic, because these records can become important evidence later. Family members can help by writing down what they remember about the crash while it is still fresh, which can support what you tell a motorcycle accident attorney about how the wreck has affected you.

After a motorcycle crash, it can also help to keep these practical steps in mind:

• Document your injuries by taking photographs over time and keeping a journal of your pain levels, limitations, and medical appointments.
• Avoid giving statements to insurance adjusters before you fully understand your injuries and legal options, and do not admit fault at the scene.
• Preserve damaged gear, such as your helmet, clothing, and motorcycle parts, since these items can help show how the collision occurred and the force of the impact.

Compensation Available After a Motorcycle Accident

After a serious motorcycle crash, many riders and passengers are unsure what types of compensation may be available or how those damages are calculated. Florida law allows injured people to seek recovery for both financial losses and the human impact of the collision, and understanding these categories can help you make informed decisions about your claim. In Tallahassee, claims may be pursued through insurance negotiations or, when necessary, in a lawsuit filed in the appropriate Leon County court. Knowing what you may be entitled to seek can help you evaluate whether a settlement offer is fair.

Economic damages generally include medical expenses, such as emergency care at Tallahassee Memorial HealthCare or follow-up treatment with local medical providers, as well as the cost of prescription medications, physical therapy, and needed medical equipment. You may also be able to recover lost wages if your injuries keep you off the job, along with loss of future earning capacity if you cannot return to the same work or number of hours. Property damage for your motorcycle, riding gear, and other personal items can also be part of your financial recovery.

Non-economic damages address the ways an injury changes your daily life, which can be especially significant after a motorcycle collision that causes lasting pain or physical limitations. These damages may include pain and suffering, mental anguish, loss of enjoyment of activities you once loved, and, in some cases, the impact your injuries have on close relationships. Families who lose a loved one in a crash may have additional options through a wrongful death claim, which can pursue certain damages on behalf of survivors. A motorcycle accident lawyer can help you identify all potential categories of compensation so important elements are not overlooked when you move forward with your case.

Why Choose Shapiro Law Firm, P.A. for Your Motorcycle Accident Claim in Tallahassee

Choosing the right legal representation is crucial for effectively navigating the complexities of a motorcycle accident claim. Shapiro Law Firm, P.A., with over 25 years of dedicated practice in personal injury law, offers dedicated attention and personalized service to clients. Our focus is solely on serving the injured, never representing corporate interests. Located conveniently in Leon County, we pride ourselves on our thorough approach, ready to go to trial where necessary, and ensuring no upfront fees hinder your ability to seek justice. Our free consultations provide a comprehensive case evaluation, equipping clients with the knowledge and confidence they need to proceed.

When you work with our team after a serious crash on a Tallahassee roadway, we take time to understand your medical needs, lost income, and long-term limitations so we can pursue the full measure of damages allowed under Florida law. We are familiar with local courts such as the Leon County Courthouse and the procedures that apply to injury cases arising from collisions on city streets, rural roads, and nearby state highways. By handling communication with insurance companies and gathering evidence from law enforcement, medical providers, and witnesses, our motorcycle accident lawyer helps you focus on your recovery while we focus on building a strong claim.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do immediately after a motorcycle crash in Tallahassee?

Call 911, get medical care, and document everything. Photograph the scene, vehicles, road conditions, and your injuries, and gather witness names. Do not give a recorded statement to any insurer before speaking with a lawyer.

Do Florida’s no-fault PIP rules cover motorcyclists?

Generally no. Florida’s PIP benefits apply to most passenger vehicles, not motorcycles. That means injured riders can usually pursue the at-fault driver right away for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim in Florida?

Most negligence claims must be filed within two years of the crash date. Waiting risks losing evidence and can bar your case, so it is best to speak with an attorney as soon as possible.

What if I was not wearing a helmet?

You can still have a claim. Lack of a helmet may affect arguments about head or face injuries, but it does not automatically defeat your case. Florida allows riders over 21 to ride without a helmet if they carry qualifying medical insurance.

How does Florida’s modified comparative negligence rule affect my case?

If you are 50 percent or less at fault, your compensation is reduced by your share of fault. If you are more than 50 percent at fault, you may be barred from recovery. Early investigation helps counter blame-shifting and protect your claim.

What compensation can I pursue after a motorcycle crash?

You may seek payment for medical treatment, future care, lost income, diminished earning capacity, property damage, and pain and suffering. In severe cases, claims can include scarring, disability, and loss of enjoyment of life.

Should I speak to the insurance company or accept a quick offer?

Not before legal counsel. Adjusters aim to minimize payouts and may use your statements against you. A lawyer can manage communications, calculate full case value, and negotiate for a settlement that reflects your true losses.

Take back control after your Tallahassee motorcycle crash

Evidence disappears fast, and insurers move even faster. Shapiro Law Firm, P.A. locks down proof, coordinates your care, and drives hard for maximum compensation while you focus on healing.

Turn your crash into a claim. Get a free case evaluation with our Tallahassee motorcycle lawyer. You pay nothing unless we win.