The Dangers

The National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration recorded 39,189 fatal crashes involving motorcycles in 2005 alone. Motorcyclists are in special danger of crashes with oncoming vehicles, making drivers and passengers 32 times more likely to suffer fatal injuries in a crash than passengers in cars. Motorcycle-car crashes make up over half of all motorcycle accidents. Florida is no exception.

Who Is At Fault?

Answers to questions of liability depend on state laws and circumstances specific to each accident. Florida is a "comparative fault" state. This means that financial liability is proportionate to fault. Fault is determined by evaluating factors such as road conditions, speed, driver fatigue, alcohol or drug influence, and weather. An experienced Florida motorcycle accident attorney can help determine who was at fault in a motorcycle accident.

Helmet Laws and Florida Motorcycle Accidents

Florida requires drivers and riders under the age of 21 to wear helmets. Those who are 21 and over who choose not to wear helmets must carry at least $10,000 in medical insurance. Think this is an unreasonable requirement? Consider the statistics: A helmet can reduce the chances of fatal head injuries by 40 percent (head injury is one of the top factors in motorcycle accident fatalities). When Florida passed its current motorcycle helmet laws, the state saw an 81 percent increase in motorcycle accident fatalities.

Motorcycle Licensing and Insurance

Motorcycle drivers in Florida must obtain either a motorcycle endorsement on the current drivers license or a motorcycle-only license in order to operate a motorcycle whose engine is larger than 50 cc. Florida requires motorcycle drivers under the age of 21 to complete a motorcycle safety course before obtaining either the endorsement or the motorcycle license. If a driver is at or over age 21, he or she may opt to take the knowledge and skills test in lieu of the safety course. Though insurance is not required to register motorcycles in Florida, motorcyclists who are involved in an accident in the Sunshine State are liable for property damage and bodily injury incurred during the accident. They must also purchase personal injury insurance in order to keep their motorcycle endorsement and prevent tag suspension on their motorcycle.

If You Been Involved in a Motorcycle Accident in Florida

If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, contact a competent Florida motorcycle accident lawyer immediately. An experienced attorney knows the ins and outs of Florida motorcycle laws and insurance regulations and can help you obtain compensation for injuries and property damage.