Gainesville Florida Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Serving Gainesville, Lake City, Live Oak & all of North Florida
In Gainesville, Florida, the Law Office of Christopher J. Annis, LLC helps the victims of motorcycle accidents. Motorcycle drivers are particularly vulnerable in an accident due to their comparative lack of safety equipment and protection. If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, it is wise to seek the advice of an attorney.
Car Drivers are usually the Ones at Fault
When there is a collision between a motorcycle and a motor vehicle, it is usually the driver of the car or truck that is at fault. Car and truck drivers are responsible for 60% of such accidents. Unfortunately, in a collision between a motorcycle and an automobile, it is usually the motorcycle rider who suffers the most.
A motorcycle offers very little in the way of physical protection. The whole point of riding a motorcycle is to be free on the open road. The thrill of riding a bike lies in the fact that you are completely open to your surroundings and not locked in a steel cage.
The drawback to this openness and freedom is the fact that motorcycle riders are far more susceptible to serious injuries if they are in an accident. Motorcycle injuries range from road rash, the painful injury caused by sliding across the pavement after being thrown from your bike, to traumatic brain injury (TBI), which can lead to memory loss and decreased brain function.
Even though motorcycle riders are more susceptible to injury in an accident, it does not excuse the negligence of at-fault drivers. One of the main reasons car drivers are often responsible for motorcycle riders’ injuries is because car drivers frequently aren’t looking out for motorcyclists.
Because motorcycles are small and consume less of the road, they are more difficult for drivers to see when the cycle is passing them on the highway, entering an intersection, or merging into traffic.
Naturally, car drivers are more likely to be watchful for larger vehicles, like commercial trucks or other passenger vehicles. This is because these types of vehicles pose a greater risk to the car driver than a tiny motorcycle. A car or truck driver, who is tired, distracted, or driving recklessly, may never see a motorcycle rider until it is too late.
What to Do if You Are in a Motorcycle Accident
Gainesville, Florida motorcycle accident attorney Christopher J. Annis’ first advice, if you have been in a motorcycle accident, is to seek medical attention immediately.
Many motorcycle riders think that they will be covered by their own automobile insurance if they are involved in a motorcycle accident. Unfortunately, that is not really the case. In Florida, PIP (Personal Injury Protection) coverage is not available for the owner and rider of a motorcycle. As a result, the PIP coverage you may have on your car will not pay benefits if you are injured in a motorcycle accident. You can, however, receive benefits from the at-fault party’s bodily injury liability coverage.
Even if you feel your injuries are minor and will heal on their own, it is important to be examined by a doctor anyway. Neck, back and other injuries, up to and including internal and brain injuries, can be difficult to assess and may worsen over time. Heading to an emergency room or walk-in clinic and being properly examined will give your doctors a baseline to reference in case your symptoms worsen. You will also have a written record that your injuries were the result of the accident, which is helpful when dealing with the insurance company.
Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact the Law Office of Christopher J. Annis, LLC, a motorcycle accident law firm in Gainesville, Florida. You can contact us online or at 352-264-1910 for a free consultation today.
Mr. Annis, who primarily practices personal injury law, and specifically handles motorcycle accident cases, has the knowledge, experience, and record of success required to successfully pursue a lawsuit in your case. We can help you obtain the benefits and compensation you deserve.
