Motorcyclists learn to share the roads with larger vehicles such as cars, SUVs, and trucks. But when driver negligence results in a car-motorcycle collision, they don’t share in the consequences. It is always the motorcyclist who pays the price. Anyone injured in a motorcycle accident is probably going to need significant, long-term physical therapy and rehabilitation.
Our top-rated Miami motorcycle accident lawyers at Freidin Brown, P.A. help people obtain the compensation they need for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. We also represent family members of people who suffer fatal motorcycle accidents in wrongful death claims. Find out how our Miami personal injury attorneys can help you fight for much-needed and deserved compensation. To request your free consultation with the team at Freidin Brown, P.A., contact our firm today.
How Much Compensation Do You Get for a Motorcycle Accident?
The potential compensation after a motorcycle accident covers both economic and non-economic damages. Some of the factors that will determine the value of your motorcycle accident settlement or court award include:
Economic Damages in a Motorcycle Accident
These damages are those that have an actual, financial value assigned to them. Possible economics in your case include:
- Current and future medical expenses
- Lost income
- Loss of earning capacity
- Repair/replacement costs for motorcycle and gear
- Other out-of-pocket costs related to the crash
Non-economic Damages in a Motorcycle Accident
Non-economic damages can be more challenging for victims to identify and calculate. Although these losses do not have a direct dollar value, you deserve compensation for them. Non-economic damages include:
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Disfigurement from scarring
- Emotional trauma
Cases involving severe injuries like head and neck injuries, amputations, spinal cord paralysis, traumatic brain injuries, or wrongful death warrant higher compensation. In one case, we were able to obtain a $1.475 million settlement on behalf of the family of a man who was killed by a driver while safely riding his motorcycle at night.
While every case is different and the value of your motorcycle accident claim will depend on the specifics of your case, our team works for the best possible outcome in every case.
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What Causes Most Motorcycle Accidents?
While most people assume that motorcyclists are reckless, a significant number of motorcycle accidents can actually be attributed to negligence on the part of the other driver. However, this won’t stop the insurance company from leveraging this widely-accepted stigma against you. This is why you should let an experienced personal injury lawyer negotiate a fair settlement on your behalf.
Our firm handles all types of motorcycle accident cases, including those that involve:
- Driver inattention (failing to “see” the motorcycle)
- Aggressive driving, such as tailgating or speeding
- Drunk drivers and drivers who are impaired by other substances
- Making left-hand turns in front of motorcycles
- Dangerous roadways with unsafe road conditions
- Making unsafe lane changes in front of motorcycles
Even if you share some of the fault for the accident, it is still possible for you to pursue damages. Florida’s modified comparative negligence law means you may still be able to seek compensation, but the insurance company may try to put the majority of blame on you. This does not mean you don’t have a case– our lawyers can fight back against them to make sure you get your settlement. When you work with Freidin Brown, P.A., we will work diligently to secure the level of compensation you deserve.
What Should You Do After a Motorcycle Accident?
If you are injured in a motorcycle accident, you should follow these important steps:
- Take pictures of the damage and any injuries you have suffered
- Get the names and contact information of anyone who witnessed the crash
- Avoid speaking to the other driver about the accident or admitting fault
- Do not repair your motorcycle until a personal injury claim has been filed
- Seek medical treatment as soon as possible, even if you think you’re fine
- Contact a Florida personal injury lawyer at Freidin Brown, P.A.
Why Is Riding a Motorcycle Dangerous in Miami, Florida?
Many motorcycle riders love Miami due to its scenic routes past breathtaking beaches and through protected wetlands. However, despite its beauty, Miami can be a dangerous place to ride. In late 2023 alone, we have seen the following motorcycle wrecks:
- In October, a motorcyclist sustained serious injuries after being struck by a vehicle on Biscayne Boulevard.
- In September, a motorcycle rider died in a crash near Northwest 27th Avenue and Southwest 8th Street.
- In August, a motorcyclist was killed when they were ejected after being struck by a driver who was making a left turn onto westbound Kendall Drive.
This city has heavy traffic on congested interstates, a transient population that is often unfamiliar with the roads, and we’re rapidly growing with fast infrastructure development. Between the city’s large elderly population, the number of large trucks that travel our roads, and aggressive drivers, it’s no wonder so many motorcycle riders are injured in accidents in Miami each year.
If you’ve been injured, the Miami personal injury attorneys at Freidin Brown, P.A. understand what you are going through during this stressful time. We are here to make the process of navigating your claim easier so you can get the compensation you need to see that justice is served.
What Steps Are Involved in the Motorcycle Accident Claims Process?
After a motorcycle accident, a lawsuit may seem overwhelming. But having an experienced injury lawyer by your side can take some of the pressure off of you during the process. With trusted guidance, your journey to justice and healing can begin.
Your Motorcycle Accident Case Evaluation
The first step in a Miami motorcycle accident claim is always a candid case evaluation. Your lawyer will review the facts and provide an honest assessment. Knowing potential hurdles ahead of time is critical. The case evaluation covers the legal strengths and weaknesses you’ll face in a lawsuit, along with your options so you can decide the best path forward.
Talking to the At-Fault Party’s Insurance Company
Talking to insurance companies and defense attorneys is usually not something motorcycle accident victims or their survivors look forward to or have the time or energy for. When you don’t know how to communicate with the other side, you may make statements that are not in your best interests.
Unfortunately, it isn’t hard to say the wrong thing, and the insurance representatives and legal counsel are adept at leading victims to say something they can use against you. We can handle all communications with the other side in your Miami motorcycle accident case to avoid mistakes that can lower your compensation. As such, you should rely on us to communicate with the insurance companies on your behalf.
Gathering the Evidence to Prove Your Motorcycle Accident Claim
To recover compensation in a motorcycle accident claim, our lawyers must establish fault. To do this, we will need evidence to support your claim. This can include the police accident report, your medical bills, receipts from medical transportation, proof of your missing wages, and any other documentation of costs associated with your injuries.
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Collecting Statements From Eyewitnesses
Another important type of evidence that can strengthen your motorcycle accident injury claim is testimony from eyewitnesses who saw what happened. This could include witness statements taken at the scene, videotaped witness statements, or witness statements your lawyer gathers after you provide us with contact information you gathered at the scene.
Calculating the Damages in Your Motorcycle Accident Case
To calculate the full value of the damages in your Miami motorcycle accident claim, we use evidence like bills, medical records, and work statements. The more documentation you have to prove your losses, the stronger your case will be. It’s a good idea to keep your bills, records, and any other documentation in a safe place where you will be able to easily access it.
Negotiating With the Liable Party’s Insurance Company
When you file a motorcycle accident claim, the responsible party’s insurance company will begin trying to settle for a low amount early on in the process. When you have a Miami motorcycle accident attorney from our firm, we will handle the negotiation process to make sure you get enough compensation to cover your losses.
Representing You in Court if Settlement Negotiations Fail
In some cases, the insurance company won’t agree to a fair settlement. When this happens, we aren’t afraid to take them to court. Most motorcycle accident claims will settle without a court hearing. However, if your case ends up going to trial, we are prepared to fight for you.
Talk to a Miami Motorcycle Accident Lawyer for Free
At Freidin Brown, P.A., we know how to hold negligent drivers responsible. Our litigation techniques and the combined experience and wisdom of our lawyers and staff mean that we are prepared to do what it takes to get you compensation for your losses and injuries.
Do not think you have no legal recourse–our Miami motorcycle accident lawyers handle all motorcycle accident cases on a contingency fee basis, which makes it affordable to all members of the community. You do not pay lawyer fees or costs unless we make a recovery for you. Contact Freidin Brown, P.A. today to speak with a personal injury lawyer about your accident. We can help you seek justice.
Freidin Brown, P.A.
Address: 2 S Biscayne Blvd, Miami, FL 33131, United States
Phone: (888) 677-7764
Opening Hours: Call Us 24/7 for a FREE Consultation