Spring Motorcycle Accidents in Fort Lauderdale: How They Happen and Your Rights to Compensation
With warmer temperatures and clear skies, spring is the prime riding season in Fort Lauderdale. But along with the increase in motorcycles on the road comes a rise in serious accidents, many of which are caused by careless drivers who fail to share the road responsibly.
If you or someone you love was injured in a South Florida motorcycle crash, Our Fort Lauderdale motorcycle accident attorney is here to help. Find out how these accidents happen and what rights you have to seek compensation.
Motorcycle Accidents in South Florida Spike In Spring
Florida’s weather allows for year-round riding, but spring is particularly popular for motorcyclists due to the number of rallies, group rides, and poker runs held at this time of year. Unfortunately, between already heavy traffic and spring break tourism, the increase in bikers on the road tends to cause a corresponding spike in the number of motorcycle accidents in Fort Lauderdale.
The state Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) reports close to 800 motorcycle crashes in Broward County annually, and a significant portion of these happen in the spring. Among the leading causes of these often life-threatening collisions include:
- Drivers failing to see motorcycles at intersections or while changing lanes;
- Speeding or following too closely, especially in stop-and-go beach traffic;
- Left-turn crashes caused by oncoming drivers misjudging a motorcycle’s speed;
- Distracted driving, such as texting, making calls, adjusting appearance, or changing GPS settings;
- Sudden lane changes or opening car doors without checking mirrors;
- Dangerous road conditions, such as narrow lanes, light of street lights or traffic signals, rocks or sand, and potholes.
In the event of a crash, motorcyclists are vulnerable. Even minor accidents can cause multiple broken bones, traumatic brain injuries, or spinal cord damage.
Protect Your Rights After a Fort Lauderdale Motorcycle Accident
Under the Florida Statutes, motorcyclists have the same rights on the road as any other driver. When a motorcycle accident in South Florida happens, those at fault can be held liable. However, this type of claim can be complex, as insurers are likely to blame you for being at least partly responsible. To protect your rights and get compensation for your losses, follow these tips:
- Report the crash immediately to the police;
- Get a description of the driver/vehicle, just in case they flee the scene;
- Gather evidence, if possible, such as photos from the scene and contact information for witnesses;
- Visit the local hospital room, urgent care, or your family doctor, document your injuries are crash-related, and follow their instructions regarding recovery.
Injured in a Motorcycle Crash? Contact Our Fort Lauderdale Motorcycle Accident Attorney
To protect your rights in a South Florida motorcycle accident claim, get professional legal help from Boone & Davis. We have over 40 years of representing clients throughout our area and fight to get you the maximum compensation. To schedule a consultation, call or contact our office online. Get the trusted legal help you need from our Fort Lauderdale motorcycle accident attorney.
Sources:
flhsmv.gov/pdf/crashreports/crash_facts_2022.pdf
leg.state.fl.us/statutes/index.cfm?App_mode=Display_Statute&URL=0300-0399/0316/Sections/0316.2085.html
