Riding a motorcycle along Fort Lauderdale’s scenic streets, from the stunning views along Ocean Drive to the long stretches of U.S. 1, can feel like freedom. But in an instant, a negligent driver can shatter that experience, leaving you with painful injuries, emotional trauma, and a pile of medical bills.
If you ride in and around Fort Lauderdale, you know that motorcycle riders aren’t always given the attention and respect they deserve. Too often, motorists fail to share the road responsibly, leading to devastating consequences for those on two wheels.
A Fort Lauderdale Motorcycle Accident Lawyer with Hollander Law Firm Accident Injury Lawyer can help you if you or someone you love has been injured in a motorcycle crash because of someone else’s negligence.
We understand that the aftermath of a Motorcycle crash can be overwhelming on all fronts—physically, emotionally, and financially. Missed work, lost wages, mounting bills, and the uncertainty of your recovery amount to serious damages, and you deserve to be compensated fully and fairly for them.
Contact us today for a free consultation with no risk or obligation. Let us take care of your legal concerns so you can focus on recovering and moving forward.
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Why Should I Hire a Fort Lauderdale Personal Injury Lawyer After a Motorcycle Accident?
By design, motorcycles are much less crashworthy than other motor vehicles. A motorcycle rider’s exposure to the environment is one aspect that makes riding exhilarating, but it also makes accidents of any kind much more dangerous.
You may be the safest motorcycle out there, but nothing you do can completely protect you from the negligence of others. If you are hit and injured by a negligent driver or some other act of negligence, an experienced motorcycle accident in your corner can make a tremendous difference in your life, both now and in the future.
At Hollander Law Firm, we go all out to protect motorcycle accident victims. We know what you’re up against and how much is at stake. When we go to work for you, we will:
- Handle every aspect of your case so that you can focus on healing.
- Conduct a thorough investigation to determine what caused your accident and identify all liable parties.
- Fight the at-fault party’s insurance company if it tries to push undue blame onto you for the crash.
- Work with top experts in accident reconstruction, medicine, and forensics to build a strong case on your behalf.
- Maintain open communication so you’re always informed about your case’s progress.
- Negotiate aggressively with insurance companies to secure the best possible outcome, and we won’t hesitate to take your case to court if necessary.
- Connect you to helpful resources that can assist in your physical, emotional and financial healing.
- Charge you nothing for our services unless we win your case.
Gregg Hollander, our lead Fort Lauderdale motorcycle accident attorney, has over 25 years of experience fighting for accident victims in Florida. His proven track record and dedication to his clients make him a strong advocate for your rights.
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle crash, call our Fort Lauderdale office today. We’re available 24/7 to assist you.
What Causes Motorcycle Accidents in Fort Lauderdale?
Motorcycle accidents can happen in an instant and for a variety of reasons, often due to the negligence of other drivers. Some of the most common causes of motorcycle crashes include:
- Distracted Driving: Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, adjusting the radio, or eating behind the wheel can easily miss a motorcyclist, leading to devastating collisions.
- Aggressive Driving: Speeding, tailgating, or weaving through traffic often puts motorcyclists at significant risk. Some drivers may cut off a motorcyclist when changing lanes or fail to leave enough stopping distance, increasing the likelihood of a crash.
- Failure to Yield: Many accidents occur when drivers fail to check their blind spots or yield to motorcyclists at intersections, particularly when making left-hand turns.
- Driving Under the Influence: Drivers impaired by alcohol or drugs pose a serious threat to motorcyclists. Slower reaction times and impaired judgment can lead to accidents with severe consequences.
- Fatigued Driving: Drowsy drivers may not react in time to avoid a motorcyclist or may drift out of their lanes, causing a collision.
- Poorly Maintained Roads: Road hazards such as potholes, loose gravel, debris, or missing signage can be particularly dangerous for motorcycles. A seemingly minor road defect that a car might absorb can lead to a serious crash for a rider.
- Vehicle Defects: Sometimes, the motorcycle itself can be at fault due to defective parts such as brakes, tires, or steering components. In these cases, a manufacturer or mechanic may share liability for the crash.
Despite Fort Lauderdale’s near-perfect weather for motorcycling, these dangers are ever-present, and accidents can occur even on a seemingly perfect day. Whether it’s a negligent driver or an unexpected road hazard, the consequences of a motorcycle accident can be life-changing.
If you’re uncertain what caused your crash, don’t worry. Our legal team is here to help. We’ll thoroughly investigate the circumstances of your accident, identify the responsible parties, and fight to hold them accountable for their actions. You focus on healing—we’ll handle the rest.
Common Injuries in Fort Lauderdale Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle riders are at a significantly higher risk of severe injury compared to occupants of cars or trucks due to the lack of protective barriers. The injuries sustained in motorcycle accidents can be life-altering and, in the worst cases, fatal. Here are some of the most common injuries:
Road Rash and Burns
Road rash occurs when a rider’s skin scrapes against the pavement during a crash, often causing deep abrasions. These injuries can lead to painful infections and permanent scarring. Treatment for road rash and burns may require skin grafts and ongoing medical care and can leave lasting physical and emotional scars.
Fractured Bones and Amputations
Motorcycle accidents often result in broken bones, especially in the arms, legs, wrists, and ankles, as riders instinctively try to brace themselves during a fall. Severe crashes can also cause crushing injuries that lead to the amputation of limbs.
Head and Neck Injuries, Including Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
Even with a helmet, motorcyclists are vulnerable to head and neck injuries in a crash. Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) can occur from violent impacts, leading to cognitive impairments, memory loss, personality changes, and other neurological complications. Neck injuries, including whiplash or damage to the cervical spine, can result in chronic pain, limited mobility, and a diminished quality of life.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal cord injuries are among the most devastating consequences of motorcycle accidents, often resulting in partial or complete paralysis. Depending on the location and severity of the injury, victims may lose the ability to walk, use their arms, or perform basic daily functions. These injuries require lifelong medical care and rehabilitation, and the financial and emotional toll can be overwhelming for victims and their families.
Internal Injuries
The force of a motorcycle collision can cause severe internal injuries, such as organ damage and internal bleeding. These injuries may not be immediately apparent after an accident, making them particularly dangerous as they can go undiagnosed until they become deadly.
Lacerations, Cuts, and Bruises
While cuts, lacerations, and bruises might seem less serious than other injuries, they can still have long-term consequences. Deep lacerations may damage muscles, nerves, and blood vessels, requiring stitches or surgery. Bruises from the impact can cause significant pain and discomfort, and some wounds may result in permanent scarring or disfigurement.
Fatal Injuries
Sadly, many motorcycle accidents in Fort Lauderdale result in fatalities. The lack of protection on a motorcycle leaves riders highly exposed, and fatal injuries can occur even at lower speeds. Families of victims may be entitled to file a wrongful death claim to seek compensation for their tragic loss.
At Hollander Law Firm Accident Injury Lawyers, we are committed to helping injured riders and their families pursue compensation for these serious injuries. Whether you’re facing extensive medical treatment or grieving the loss of a loved one, our team is here to provide the support and legal guidance you need during this challenging time.
How Much Is My Motorcycle Accident Case Worth?
The value of your motorcycle accident case depends on several key factors, including the severity of your injuries, the long-term impact on your daily life, and the financial losses you’ve endured as a result of the crash. Depending on the specific circumstances of your case, you may be eligible for compensation for the following damages:
Medical Expenses
One of the largest portions of your compensation may cover medical expenses. This includes all hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation costs, doctor visits, and any ongoing care related to your injuries. Severe motorcycle accidents often result in extensive medical treatment, and some riders may require lifelong care.
Lost Wages or Income
If your injuries have caused you to miss work, you may be entitled to recover the wages you’ve lost. Motorcycle accidents often lead to serious injuries that can put you out of work for weeks or months. We’ll help you calculate the income you’ve already lost and pursue the compensation necessary to make up for it.
Loss of Future Earning Potential
In more severe cases, your injuries may prevent you from ever returning to your previous job or any form of employment. If that happens, you could be entitled to compensation for your loss of future earning potential. This amount is based on how much you would have earned had the accident not occurred, and it’s crucial to have a knowledgeable lawyer to ensure these damages are fully and accurately calculated.
Pain and Suffering
Pain and suffering encompass both the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident and your injuries. Motorcycle crashes can leave you with permanent pain, emotional trauma, anxiety, or depression. These non-economic damages can be difficult to quantify, but we’ll help you fight for fair compensation that reflects the true impact of your injuries on your life.
Permanent Disability or Disfigurement
Some motorcycle accidents result in life-altering injuries, such as paralysis, amputation, or permanent scarring. If you’ve been left with a permanent disability or disfigurement, you deserve compensation for the profound changes to your quality of life.
Loss of Enjoyment of Life
Severe injuries can prevent you from participating in activities you once enjoyed, such as hobbies, sports, or spending time with loved ones. This loss of enjoyment of life is compensable under Florida law, and we’ll work to ensure that your settlement reflects this often-overlooked consequence of serious injuries.
Loss of Consortium
If your injuries have negatively impacted your marital relationship, either physically or emotionally, your spouse may be entitled to compensation for loss of consortium. This refers to the deprivation of companionship, affection, and support due to the injuries you sustained. We’ll make sure that these damages are considered in your claim to fully address the ripple effect your accident has had on your personal life.
Property Damage
Your motorcycle likely sustained significant damage in the crash. Whether your bike requires extensive repairs or was totaled, you can seek compensation to cover the costs. We’ll work with you to ensure that the property damage portion of your claim is fully addressed so you can get back on the road safely or recover the full value of your motorcycle if it’s beyond repair.
Maximizing Your Compensation
Every motorcycle accident case is different, and it’s vital to have an experienced Fort Lauderdale motorcycle accident lawyer assess the full scope of your damages. From financial losses to the personal impact of your injuries, we’ll work closely with you to determine the compensation you deserve.
While no amount of compensation can fully restore you to your pre-accident state, recovering maximum compensation for your damages can help ease some of your anxiety and stress so you can focus more on recovering and living.
Motorcycle Accident Statistics in Florida
Motorcycle accidents are a serious concern in Florida. The state consistently has some of the highest rates of motorcycle fatalities in the country. According to the National Safety Council’s latest data, Florida ranked top among all 50 states for the number of motorcycle deaths, with 668 fatalities.
For every motorcyclist killed in Florida, hundreds more were injured. In addition to nearly 700 deaths, Florida’s 9,270 motorcycle crashes resulted in 1,999 catastrophic injuries, according to Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FHSMV). Another 5,929 motorcycle riders sustained non-incapacitating injuries.
Florida’s mild weather and scenic roads make it an ideal place to ride year-round. Despite the lack of snow and ice in our state, motorcyclists remain vulnerable even in the best weather. According to recent data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 97% of fatal motorcycle crashes occurred on clear or cloudy days, and 57% happened during daylight hours.
Let Us Handle the Insurance Companies
Motorcycle riders often face an uphill battle—not only on the road when other motorists become careless or aggressive but also when dealing with insurance companies.
As you may know, there’s a persistent bias that motorcyclists are risk-takers, leading insurance companies to downplay the severity of your injuries or try to shift blame for the accident onto you. These tactics can make it harder for riders to get a fair settlement, even when the accident wasn’t their fault.
At Hollander Law Firm Accident Injury Lawyers, we understand the challenges you face. You deserve to be treated fairly, and having a skilled attorney on your side can make all the difference. Our team will stand up to the insurance companies on your behalf, making sure they don’t take advantage of you with unfair, lowball offers. We know all the tactics they use to minimize claims and will fight to ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve.
Florida’s Statute of Limitations for Motorcycle Accident Claims
In Florida, you typically have two years from the date of your motorcycle accident to file a lawsuit. This time limit is known as the statute of limitations, and missing this deadline can prevent you from seeking compensation.
While two years may seem like plenty of time, building a strong case can take time. Contact a Fort Lauderdale motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible after your crash to ensure all necessary steps are taken before the deadline.
Florida’s Comparative Negligence Rule
Florida follows a comparative negligence rule, meaning that even if you are partially at fault for your motorcycle accident, you may still recover compensation. However, your damages will be reduced by the percentage of fault attributed to you.
For example, if you are found to be 20% responsible for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by 20%. Our experienced attorneys will work to minimize any claims that you share fault for the accident and maximize your recovery.
Contact a Fort Lauderdale Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident in Fort Lauderdale, you don’t have to face the legal challenges alone. Our Fort Lauderdale personal injury lawyers at Hollander Law Firm Accident Injury Lawyers, we are committed to helping motorcycle riders recover the full and fair compensation they deserve for their injuries and losses, and not a dollar less.
Call our Fort Lauderdale office today at (954) 231-2320 or fill out our online form to schedule a free, no-obligation consultation with a trusted motorcycle accident lawyer.
When you come to Hollander Law Firm Accident Injury Lawyers, your fight becomes our fight. Let us start helping you today.
Visit Our Personal Injury Law Office In Fort Lauderdale, FL
Hollander Law Firm Accident Injury Lawyers
1975 E Sunrise Blvd Suite# 702
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33304
Phone: (954) 287-0566
Hours: Open 24 hours daily
Fort Lauderdale Chiropractors
- ChiroCare of Florida Injury and Wellness Centers – 701 E Broward Blvd, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301
- Frank Chiropractic Center – 1321 S Andrews Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
- Lauderdale Chiropractic Clinic – 1140 SE 3rd Ave, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
- Tartack Chiropractic and Wellness Center – 1222 S Andrews Ave Suite 501, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33316
*Disclaimer – we do not endorse these companies or profit from having them listed on our website.
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