Due to the nature of motorcycle accidents, they can be devastating for victims. Making matters worse, motorcycle accidents can commonly be the fault of the other driver or passenger vehicle driver, such as in left-hand turn situations. When a vehicle is turning left, because they do not have the right of way, they may in many cases be liable for causing any accident that results. Unfortunately, this circumstance is common related to motorcycles because many passenger vehicle drivers fail to exercise due care to observe motorcycles, failing to see them and then turning in front of them.
In general, the victim of a motorcycle accident may be able to recover damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering and other damages, from the inattentive driver responsible for the injuries they have suffered. In some circumstances, liability may be apportioned, which may adjust the amount of damages the victim can recover according for the accident so as to account for the victim’s own role in the crash. This so-called “comparative fault” liability is the law in Florida.
When a motorcyclist has been involved in a motorcycle accident, it is important for them to file a police report and keep records related to the accident, the medical care they receive and the other impacts of the motorcycle accident. Legal resources are available to help them carefully track their losses and recover compensation for the physical, financial and emotional damages they have suffered in the motorcycle accident.
Motorcyclists are vulnerable on the roadways due to the nature of the vehicles they ride and the sometimes careless nature of drivers. As a result, it is necessary for them to be familiar with how to protect themselves on and off the road when they have been the victim of a motorcycle accident.
Source: Injury.findlaw.com, “Motorcycle Accident FAQ,” Accessed Dec. 6, 2016
