Lake City Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Injured by a Negligent Driver in Lake City, FL?

Motorcycle accidents can result in life-altering injuries and significant financial burdens. If you've been involved in a motorcycle accident in Lake City, FL, Schackow & Mercadante is here to help you navigate the complex legal process and fight for the compensation you're entitled to. Our experienced Lake City motorcycle accident lawyers understand the unique challenges bikers face and are dedicated to providing top-notch legal representation to protect your rights.

To schedule a free consultation, call (352) 261-6767 or contact us online today.

Florida Motorcycle Laws

In Florida, riders over the age of 21 are not required to wear a helmet if they carry a minimum of $10,000 in medical insurance coverage. However, wearing a helmet can play a crucial role in reducing the severity of injuries in the event of an accident.

Motorcyclists must also possess a valid motorcycle endorsement on their driver's license. To obtain this endorsement, riders must complete a Basic Rider Course.

Unlike some other states, Florida prohibits lane splitting, which is when a motorcyclist rides between two lanes of traffic. Bikers caught doing this may be cited for a traffic violation, which can impact any legal claims made in an accident.

Laslty, the state’s "no-fault" insurance laws do not apply to motorcycles. This means that motorcyclists are not required to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance. Instead, injured riders must rely on the at-fault driver's insurance or pursue legal action to recover damages.

At Schackow & Mercadante, we are well-versed in Florida’s motorcycle laws and how they apply to accident claims. Our goal is to ensure that your rights are protected and that any legal roadblocks are overcome.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents can occur for various reasons, often due to the negligence of other drivers. Some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents include:

• Distracted Driving: Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or otherwise distracted may not notice motorcyclists on the road. This can lead to rear-end collisions or lane-change accidents, which can be devastating for bikers.
• Failure to Yield: Many motorcycle accidents occur when a driver fails to yield the right of way to a motorcyclist. This is particularly common at intersections where drivers may misjudge the speed or distance of an approaching motorcycle.
• Left-Turn Accidents: One of the most dangerous situations for motorcyclists is when a car turns left in front of them. Drivers may not see the motorcycle or misjudge its speed, resulting in a collision.
• Speeding: Speeding reduces the time drivers have to react to motorcycles on the road. Accidents caused by speeding can result in catastrophic injuries, particularly for the rider.
• Impaired Driving: Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs pose a significant risk to motorcyclists. Impaired drivers may have slower reaction times, poor judgment, and a lack of awareness, all of which can lead to serious accidents.
• Road Hazards: Motorcycles are more susceptible to road hazards such as potholes, debris, and uneven pavement. These hazards, which may be minor for a car, can cause a motorcyclist to lose control and crash.

Legal Challenges Bikers Face When Fighting for Compensation

Motorcyclists often face unique legal challenges when pursuing compensation for injuries and damages. Insurance companies and opposing counsel may attempt to place undue blame on the rider or minimize the extent of their injuries. Common challenges include:

• Bias Against Motorcyclists: There is a pervasive bias that motorcyclists are inherently reckless or risk-takers. This stereotype can be used by insurance adjusters and opposing lawyers to downplay the other driver’s liability or suggest that the motorcyclist was at fault.
• Comparative Negligence: Florida follows a comparative negligence rule, which means that if you are found partially at fault for the accident, your compensation may be reduced. For instance, if the court determines you were 20% at fault, your compensation will be reduced by that percentage. Insurance companies may try to exploit this rule to diminish your claim.
• Severe Injuries: Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries, including traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, fractures, and road rash. These injuries require long-term medical treatment and rehabilitation, leading to extensive medical bills. Insurance companies may downplay the severity of your injuries or offer settlements that don’t cover the full extent of your future medical needs.
• Insurance Company Tactics: Insurance companies are notorious for using tactics to reduce payouts. They may delay the claims process, offer lowball settlements, or question the validity of your injuries. Having an experienced motorcycle accident attorney in Lake City can help counter these tactics and ensure you receive fair compensation.

At Schackow & Mercadante, we are familiar with these challenges and know how to overcome them. Our attorneys are committed to building a strong case on your behalf, gathering evidence, and negotiating with insurance companies to secure the compensation you deserve.

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident in Lake City, FL, don’t wait to get the legal help you need. Contact Schackow & Mercadante today at (352) 261-6767 to schedule a free consultation with one of our skilled Lake City motorcycle accident lawyers.