Tampa Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Experienced Legal Representation for Motorcycle Injury Claims

Nobody should have to sustain injuries in a motorcycle accident because of another person's carelessness or recklessness. Yet motorcycle collisions occur with alarming frequency in Florida, with more than 8,000 crashes annually resulting in nearly 500 fatalities and thousands of serious injuries. If you recently got hurt in a motorcycle wreck, an experienced Tampa motorcycle injury lawyer can discuss your case with you.

Call Kemp Law at (727) 788-6792 for a free consultation today.

Common Causes of Tampa Motorcycle Crashes

Motorcycle crashes can happen for many different reasons, from poor road conditions to driver error. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) cites some of the following as frequent causes of motorcycle accidents:

• Motorist fails to see a motorcycle rider in his or her blind spot and changes lanes into that motorcyclist;
• Motorist misjudges a motorcyclist’s distance at an intersection and makes a turn;
• Dooring accident, or when a car driver opens his or her door into an oncoming motorcyclist;
• Alcohol-impaired collisions;
• Distracted driving;
• Inclement weather, and
• Poor road conditions, including slippery roadways or uneven roads.

Possible Injuries in a Tampa Motorcycle Accident

The physical vulnerability of motorcyclists makes collisions particularly devastating. Motorcycle accidents can happen almost anywhere in the Tampa area, from high-speed collisions on I-75 or I-275 to crashes that occur on local neighborhood roads or in retail parking lots. Since motorcyclists do not have the protection of an automobile when a wreck occurs, even a low-speed collision can lead to devastating and permanently disabling injuries.

Each year in Florida, approximately 5,500 motorcycle drivers and 500 passengers are injured, with over 2,000 injuries being so severe that they are classified as incapacitating by medical professionals.

The following are examples of the types of injuries that a person can sustain in a motorcycle accident:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Spinal cord injuries (SCIs)
• Broken bones or fractures
• Severe scrapes and road rash
• Contusions
• Internal bleeding
• Organ damage
• Facial lacerations and other injuries
• Disfigurement
• Limb amputations

The Role of a Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Tampa

After an accident, motorcyclists may find themselves facing blame, confusion, and quick settlement offers that don't necessarily reflect the compensation they deserve. A Tampa motorcycle collision attorney can provide crucial support in such times by:

• Helping victims navigate their legal options
• Standing up for their rights
• Fighting for the resources they need to heal
• Representing your interests in negotiations with insurance companies
• Advocating for you in court if necessary

Securing Maximum Compensation for Your Injuries

Motorcycle accidents can lead to significant financial burdens, including medical bills, bike repair costs, and lost wages due to time off work. Victims may find themselves overwhelmed by these challenges, which is why pursuing adequate compensation is so crucial.

Depending on the situation, the at-fault driver's insurance, or the victim's motorcycle insurance, could be liable for these costs. Securing maximum compensation can help cover:

• Medical Bills: Emergency care, hospitalization, surgery
• Rehabilitation Costs: Physical therapy, occupational therapy, ongoing treatment
• Loss of Wages: Time off work during recovery, reduced earning capacity
• Pain and Suffering: Physical pain and emotional distress
• Property Damage: Motorcycle repairs or replacement

Having a seasoned motorcycle collision attorney can make all the difference in achieving this outcome.

Comparative Fault and the Failure to Wear a Helmet in Tampa

In some motorcycle accident cases, the at-fault party will raise the issue of comparative negligence or comparative fault in order to suggest that the injured party is also responsible for his or her injuries. Florida uses a “pure” comparative fault system.

Under Florida’s comparative fault law, an injured plaintiff can still recover damages regardless of whether that plaintiff is anywhere from 1 percent at fault to 99 percent at fault. However, the plaintiff’s total recovery will be reduced by his or her portion of fault. For example, if a plaintiff is awarded $1 million in damages after filing a motorcycle accident claim but the court determines that the plaintiff is 20 percent at fault, that $1 million award will be reduced by 20 percent (or $200,000), and the plaintiff will recover $800,000.

One of the most common reasons that an at-fault party will raise the issue of comparative fault in a motorcycle accident case is the plaintiff’s failure to wear a helmet. If you sustained a traumatic brain injury or another type of head trauma and you were not wearing a helmet, the defendant may be able to prove that you are partially responsible for the severity of your injury. To be clear, even though Florida law does not require most adult motorcyclists to wear a helmet, failing to wear head protection can result in a reduction of your damages award.

Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Accidents in Tampa

What should I do immediately after a motorcycle collision in Florida?

Seek immediate medical attention, document the accident scene, collect witness information, and contact a reputable motorcycle collision attorney as soon as possible.

How can a motorcycle collision attorney help me with my case?

A motorcycle collision attorney can guide your legal options, represent your interests in negotiations with insurance companies, and, if necessary, advocate for you in court. They ensure you don't accept a settlement that's less than you deserve. Our experienced attorneys can evaluate your specific case to provide a realistic assessment of what compensation you may be entitled to, as payouts vary depending on the severity of injuries, property damage, and insurance policy details.

Can I claim compensation if the motorcycle collision was partly my fault?

Yes, Florida follows a pure comparative negligence rule, which means you can still recover damages even if you were partially at fault. However, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

How long do I have to file a claim after a motorcycle collision in Tampa?

In Florida, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is four years from the date of the collision. However, it's advisable to start the process as soon as possible to preserve evidence and witness testimony.

Why Should I Hire Kemp Law?

It is very easy to describe what Kemp Law Group does. Our mission statement says it all. We strive to "relentlessly pursue protecting our clients and improving our community through respect, communication, and service." Put more simply, we help people.

Everything we do is with that singular purpose in mind. If a client has been injured by someone else, we will do everything we can to make sure they get the best possible medical care at little or no expense to them.

Our firm is unique; we are committed to our community and our clients with a level of legal expertise that is among the highest in the area. In fact, we were featured in Positively Tampa for our efforts.

Our attorneys are members of the Million Dollar Advocates Forum and the Multi-Million Dollar Advocates Forum, a national group that provides a network for information exchange, local assistance and case referrals to top trial lawyers in America who have won large, complex cases. Fewer than 1% of attorneys nationwide earn this high distinction. We always provide legal representation in your best interests, maintaining open communication lines, and keeping you updated about your case every step of the way.

Regardless of where you live in the Tampa Bay region, including Hillsborough, Pasco, Pinellas, and Hernando Counties, we look forward to helping you make the best of your situation. Many of our attorneys have been acclaimed as among the 1% of all attorneys in the country, and they're right here in our area, ready to help you.

Contact a Tampa Motorcycle Injury Attorney

If you or a close family member recently sustained serious injuries in a motorcycle crash in or around Tampa, it is important to discuss your options for seeking compensation with an experienced Tampa motorcycle injury attorney. One of the dedicated personal injury attorneys at Kemp Law Group can speak with you about your situation and what steps you may be able to take to seek financial compensation for your losses.

We understand how stressful a motorcycle accident can be. Our esteemed attorneys are here to ensure you receive the best outcome for your case.

Call us at (727) 788-6792 or submit a contact form for a free consultation.