Motorcycle Accident Lawyer | Motorcycle Injury Lawyer One careless moment or unsafe road conditions can change a motorcyclist’s life in seconds. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 6,335 motorcyclists were killed in crashes in 2023, making up 15% of all traffic deaths nationwide. Even a relatively minor motorcycle accident can lead to serious injuries, long recoveries and overwhelming medical bills. If you were hurt in a motorcycle crash, you may be dealing with painful injuries, time away from work and an insurance company pushing you to settle quickly. A motorcycle accident lawyer from Florin|Roebig can explain your rights, handle the insurance process, investigate what caused the crash and pursue compensation for medical costs, lost wages and future care needs. On this page, you’ll learn what to do after a motorcycle accident, common crash causes and when to contact a motorcycle accident attorney for help. Nationwide Motorcycle Accident Facts While motorcyclists make up a small percentage of total motorists on U.S. roads, the NHTSA reported in 2023 that motorcycle riders were 28 times more likely than those in passenger cars to die in a traffic crash. With 6,335 motorcyclist fatalities nationwide, 2023 marked the fourth consecutive year this number has risen. Additional facts regarding motorcycle accidents nationwide in 2023 show that: 95% of motorcyclist fatalities were drivers, with 5% passengers. 82,564 motorcyclists received injuries in crashes. 36% of motorcyclists in fatal crashes were speeding, with 54% of these riders aged 21 to 24. 41% of the 2,171 motorcyclists who died in single-vehicle crashes were impaired by alcohol. 34% of motorcyclists in fatal crashes weren’t licensed. 51% of motorcyclists killed in crashes in states without universal helmet laws weren’t wearing helmets, compared to just 10% in states that do. Who Is at Risk for Motorcycle Accidents? Anyone who rides a motorcycle can be at risk of getting into an accident. However, motorcycle accident data shows that those at greater risk for crashing include riders who: Are younger and/or inexperienced. Ride under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Ride recklessly, such as speeding or making excessive or unexpected lane changes. Are distracted, such as texting while driving. Ride in inclement weather when roads are slick. Don’t properly maintain their motorcycle. In 2023, fatalities among young motorcyclists between the ages of 15 and 20 saw a 44% increase, with a 33% increase on weekdays and 62% on weekends. Serious motorcycle accidents were more common in more populated cities, with 65% of fatalities in urban areas compared to just 35% in rural areas. However, 92% of deaths occurred on non-interstate roads, with 56% occurring during the daytime. Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents Most motorcyclists are aware of the risks they face when sharing the road with larger vehicles. In 2023, the NHTSA reported 3,419 accidents involving a motorcycle and another vehicle. In 46% of fatal motorcycle accidents, the other vehicle turned left in front of a motorcycle going straight. However, not all risks associated with riding a motorcycle involve other drivers. Riding a motorcycle after drinking alcohol or using drugs is a significant factor in motorcycle accident deaths across the United States. In 2023, 26% of motorcycle riders killed in traffic crashes were impaired by alcohol, and 41% who died in single-vehicle accidents were under the influence. Alcohol and other drugs can impact a rider’s judgment, slow their reaction time, affect their perception of surrounding objects and cause dangerously reckless behavior. Motorcyclists who drink and ride are at serious risk of injuring themselves and others on the road. Other factors linked to motorcyclist injuries and fatalities include: Riding without a helmet or other protective gear Failing to follow traffic signs and signals Not yielding when appropriate Not paying attention to other drivers Riding aggressively Much of what constitutes safe riding is maintaining awareness of yourself and others on the road, including making sound decisions regarding speed, spacing and visibility. Even so, accidents can also occur suddenly and unexpectedly, with little or nothing a rider could have done to prevent them. In these cases, it’s crucial to understand the legal options available for motorcycle riders and what compensation injured riders or grieving families may be entitled to following a motorcycle crash. Types of Injuries Caused in Motorcycle Accidents Motorcyclists have much less protection than drivers of standard motor vehicles. For example, they don’t have seat belts, airbags or a metal frame providing a protective enclosure that absorbs impacts during a crash. Without these safety features, motorcycles have a greater risk of injuries, including serious injuries in vehicular accidents. Riding without a helmet or proper clothing and shoes while on a motorcycle puts motorcyclists at an even greater risk for serious injury. Some types of injuries caused by motorcycle accidents include: Road rash Concussion or traumatic brain injury Broken bones and fractures Spinal cord injury Loss of limbs Disfigurement Paralysis Any injury can go from minor to catastrophic based on the seriousness of the accident. Many of the possible motorcycle accident injuries are severe and may lead to permanent disability, disfigurement or wrongful death. Wearing protective head, eye and body gear and maintaining constant awareness while riding are the safest decisions a motorcycle rider can make to protect themselves on the road. However, accidents caused by the fault of another driver aren’t as easily preventable. Sustaining injuries from a motorcycle accident can require immediate medical care. The cost of medical transportation and medical treatment for injuries can quickly add up and become an enormous source of stress for the average person. If you or a loved one is a motorcycle accident victim, you may be entitled to financial compensation to recover your damages. Scheduling a free case evaluation with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer at Florin|Roebig can be the best way to determine whether you have a case and the potential compensation you may receive. What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident: A Step-By-Step Guide Accidents can happen very quickly and cause significant disorientation, leaving you unsure what to do next. Your first priority should be to attend to your own health and safety. If you can move, get yourself and your bike out of the flow of traffic to a safe spot. If you can’t move your bike, leave it, but take yourself out of harm’s way. Follow these steps after a motorcycle crash: 1. Check for Injuries and Seek Medical Care Quickly assess yourself and anyone else involved for injuries. If anyone is hurt, having trouble moving or seems disoriented, call 911 right away. Even if you feel “okay,” get checked by a medical professional as soon as possible, as many injuries may not show symptoms immediately. Tell emergency responders about any pain, dizziness, confusion or vision changes. 2. Collect Personal and Insurance Information If you’re able, exchange information with every driver involved. Try to collect: Names and contact information Driver’s license numbers License plate numbers Vehicle makes, models and colors Insurance companies and policy numbers If the other driver leaves the scene, don’t chase them. In hit-and-run accidents, try to note their license plate, vehicle description and direction of travel, and share this with the police. Your attorney may later use this information along with security camera footage or witness statements to help identify the at-fault driver and build a case for recovering compensation. 3. Contact the Police Call the police to report the crash, especially if anyone is injured or there appears to be property damage above $500. In many states, you’re legally required to report certain accidents. When officers arrive, give a calm, factual account of what happened without guessing about details or accepting blame. Ask how to obtain a copy of the police report, as it’s crucial evidence if you pursue a claim for accident-related injuries and other damages. 4. Document the Scene If it’s safe and you’re able to move around, use your phone to document the scene before vehicles are moved. Helpful details include: Damage to all vehicles and your motorcycle Your visible injuries and the condition of your helmet and gear Skid marks, debris, road conditions and weather Traffic signs or signals nearby Photos, videos and notes can help your attorney and accident reconstruction experts understand how the crash happened, even days or weeks later. 5. Call a Motorcycle Accident Attorney Once your immediate medical needs are addressed, consider speaking with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer before dealing extensively with insurance companies. An expert car accident attorney at Florin|Roebig can explain your rights, help you avoid common mistakes and handle communication with insurers while you focus on healing. After a motorcycle accident, an attorney can help with: Gathering witness statements Obtaining police reports and medical records Securing and reviewing photos, videos and any available security or traffic camera footage Working with accident reconstruction and medical experts Investigating the driving history of the at-fault motorist Exploring potential vehicle or parts defects in product liability cases Communicating and negotiating with insurance carriers on your behalf A lawyer can also advise you before you give a recorded statement or sign any settlement paperwork, helping you pursue fair compensation for medical bills, lost income and other losses related to the crash. 6. Notify Your Insurance Carrier Contact your own insurance company as soon as you reasonably can to report the crash, even if you believe the other driver was at fault. Share basic facts like the date, time, location and vehicles involved but avoid guessing about fault or the full extent of your injuries. If an adjuster asks for a detailed or recorded statement, you can politely explain that you’d like to speak with an attorney first. A motorcycle accident lawyer can review your policy, guide you on how to describe the crash or handle communications with the insurance company on your behalf. Understanding Motorcycle Accident Laws Motorcycle accident laws are largely state-specific. Rules about liability, insurance, helmet use, lane splitting, filing deadlines and who can bring a claim can all vary depending on where the crash happened. Learning the basics of your state’s law can help you understand your rights, but it’s easy to miss important details if you try to interpret the law on your own. A local attorney can explain how state and local rules apply to your accident and help you avoid missing critical deadlines. Statute of Limitations for Motorcycle Accidents The statute of limitations is the legal deadline to file a lawsuit. If you miss this deadline, you can lose your right to pursue compensation in court, no matter how strong your case might be. Deadlines vary by state, by the type of claim and sometimes by who you’re suing. Many states give injury victims between two and three years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury lawsuit, while claims against government entities may have shorter deadlines or special notice requirements. In Florida, recent changes to state law shortened the time to file many negligence-based personal injury lawsuits, including motorcycle crash cases, to as little as two years from the date of the accident for incidents after March 24, 2023. Wrongful death claims in Florida also must generally be filed within two years of the date of death. Because these rules are complex and still evolving, the safest approach is to talk with a lawyer in your state as soon as possible after a motorcycle crash or fatality. When to File a Motorcycle Accident Claim Motorcycle accidents can lead to property damage, serious or permanent injuries, mental anguish and, in the worst cases, death. Medical bills, lost wages and repair costs can pile up fast, especially for families already living paycheck to paycheck. While expenses from a motorcycle accident can vary, losses often include: Financial: Ambulance and hospital bills, follow-up treatment, rehabilitation, medication, motorcycle repair or replacement and lost income Non-Financial: Physical injuries, long-term disability and psychological concerns, such as pain and suffering, anxiety, depression, post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD) and loss of enjoyment of life Filing a motorcycle accident claim can be an effective course of action for injured riders or their families to pursue compensation for these losses. An injured motorcyclist can file a claim themselves, or a loved one or personal representative can file a claim on their behalf, often occurring when severe injury or death occurs as a result of the accident. Losing a loved one to a motorcycle accident can be a traumatic experience and may entitle surviving family members to compensation through a wrongful death claim. To seek compensation, you need an attorney to help you prove that another person’s negligence directly resulted in your loved one’s death. Potentially negligent parties in a motorcycle crash or wrongful death claim can include: Another driver who violated traffic laws or was otherwise deemed at fault for the accident. A motorcycle or parts manufacturer, if the accident resulted from defective equipment (product liability case). An attorney can investigate the crash, gather evidence and identify all parties that may be responsible for your losses. Understanding Motorcycle Accident Personal Injury Claims A motorcycle accident personal injury claim is a legal process for seeking compensation from the person or entity that caused your crash. To recover damages, you generally need to show that another party was negligent or at fault for the accident and that their actions directly led to your injuries. Another driver may be considered at-fault if they were: Texting while driving or otherwise distracted Driving under the influence Speeding or driving too fast for conditions Ignoring traffic signals or signs Operating a poorly maintained vehicle In many states, you may still be able to recover compensation even if you were partly at fault for the accident. However, your recovery will likely be reduced by your percentage of fault. Some states, including Florida, after March 24, 2023, use a modified comparative negligence rule that can bar recovery if you’re found to be more than 50% responsible for the crash. Common types of compensation in motorcycle accident cases include: Medical transportation and treatment costs Future medical care and rehabilitation Repair or replacement of your motorcycle Lost wages and reduced earning capacity Pain and suffering and other non-economic damages In many no-fault or personal injury protection (PIP) states, people injured in car crashes must meet a “serious injury” threshold before they can sue for pain and suffering. Motorcycle claims are often handled differently. For example, in Florida, PIP coverage applies to most four-wheeled vehicles but doesn’t apply to motorcycles, so riders usually pursue fault-based claims directly against the at-fault party rather than going through their own PIP coverage first. Because rules vary by state and claim type, it’s essential to talk with a lawyer in your state as soon as you can after a motorcycle crash. How Much Is Your Motorcycle Accident Claim Worth? There’s no standard or average settlement amount for motorcycle accident claims. Determining how much your claim is worth depends on the specific facts of your case, including: The severity and type of your injuries How long you’re off work and whether you can return to your old job The amount of medical treatment you’ll need in the future How your injuries affect your daily life and independence Whether there’s a dispute over fault The insurance coverage and assets available Some losses, like medical bills and lost wages, are easier to document. Others, like pain and suffering or reduced quality of life, are more subjective but can still be significant. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney at Florin|Roebig can review the details of your case, explain how similar claims have been valued and give you a realistic range for possible outcomes. Our Featured Case Results Personal Injury Property Loss and Damage Claims Construction Negligence Labor Law Product Liability Medical Malpractice Car Accident 1 $47.4M Personal Injury Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 2 $42M Motor Vehicle Accident Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 3 $9.55M Firearm Injury Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 4 $5.25M Hospital Negligence Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 5 $4M Personal Injury Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 1 $4.2M Property Damage Liability Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 2 $2.5M Property Damage Liability Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 3 $1.5M Industrial Explosion Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 4 $1.1M Property Damage Liability Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 1 $3.9M Construction Negligence Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 2 $2.4M Construction Negligence Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 3 $2.3M Contractor Negligence Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 4 $1.5M Construction Negligence Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 5 $1.2M Construction Negligence Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 1 $6.8M Race Discrimination Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 2 $4.2M Whistleblower Liability Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 3 $4.0M Sexual Harassment Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 4 $3.2M Nationality Discrimination Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 5 $2,0M Sexual Harassment Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 1 $5.3M Pharmaceutical Negligence Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 2 $3.2M Product Liability Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 3 $1.3M Drug Company Liability Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 4 $1.2M Product Liability Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 1 $6.0M Medical Malpractice Settlement A resolution between disputing parties about a legal case, typically reached before court action begins. 2 $5M Orthopedic Malpractice Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 3 $3M Gastroenterology Malpractice Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 4 $2.25M Urology Malpractice Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 5 $1.7M Anesthesiology Malpractice Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 1 $42M Motor Vehicle Accident Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 2 $15M Motorcycle Accident Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 3 $6.1M Motorcycle Accident Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 4 $2.3M Car Accident Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. 5 $1.8M Truck Accident Jury Verdict The formal finding of fact made by a jury on matters or questions submitted to the jury by a judge. Find out if you have a case we could help you win Speak To a Specialist How to Choose a Motorcycle Accident Attorney Choosing the right attorney after a motorcycle accident can make a real difference in the outcome of your case. When you’re interviewing lawyers, consider the following: Look for an Attorney with Experience Motorcycle cases are different from standard car accident claims. They often involve more severe injuries, complicated liability disputes and biased assumptions about riders. Look for a lawyer who regularly handles motorcycle crash cases and understands the unique issues riders face. Ask About Trial Experience and Results Many cases settle, but you don’t want an attorney who avoids trial at all costs. Ask whether they’ve taken motorcycle cases to trial, what kinds of verdicts or settlements they’ve obtained and how often they negotiate with insurers versus litigate in court. Select an Attorney with Resources Serious motorcycle cases may require accident reconstruction experts, medical specialists, vocational experts and others. A well-resourced firm can hire appropriate experts, gather detailed evidence and build a strong claim on your behalf. Understand How Fees Work Most motorcycle accident attorneys handle cases on a contingency fee basis, meaning their fee is a percentage of any recovery and you don’t pay attorney’s fees if they don’t obtain compensation for you. However, there can be case costs and other expenses. Make sure you understand how fees and costs are handled before you sign a representation agreement. Questions to Ask a Motorcycle Accident Attorney When seeking an effective motorcycle accident lawyer, you must confirm they have the skills, qualifications and confidence necessary to recover your accident-related damages. Before you hire a lawyer, it’s reasonable to ask questions to be sure they’re a good fit for both you and your case. Some helpful questions to ask before hiring a motorcycle accident lawyer include: Have you handled motorcycle accident cases before? Motorcycle crashes fall under personal injury law, but they’re not identical to other types of cases. Ask how many motorcycle cases they’ve handled, what kinds of outcomes they’ve achieved and whether they’re familiar with the specific injuries and biases riders often face. How do your fees and costs work? Ask whether the attorney charges a contingency fee, what percentage they take if the case settles or goes to trial and whether you’ll owe any case costs if there’s no recovery. While a contingency fee basis means you won’t pay anything up front, some personal injury lawyers may ask for a fee in advance. Get all details related to fees and costs in writing so you know what to expect. Will my case likely settle, or will it go to trial? No attorney can promise a result, but an experienced lawyer can explain how similar cases are usually resolved. They can also tell you when they recommend filing a lawsuit and how they prepare if a trial becomes necessary. Who will handle my case day to day? Find out whether your case will primarily be handled by the attorney you meet, a team of lawyers or other staff. Ask how often you can expect updates and who you should contact with any questions you might have. Can you provide reviews or references? Client reviews, case results and references can give you a sense of an attorney’s communication style, responsiveness and approach to client support. This feedback can give you a better picture of an attorney’s professional skills and former clients’ general experience of working with them. You want someone competent in personal injury law but who also treats you with patience and respect while providing clear communication throughout your case, including while it’s pending. Top-Rated Motorcycle Accident Lawyers In The U.S. For every year since the inception of the honor in 2010, Florin|Roebig has been selected as one of the “Best Law Firms in America” by U.S. News and World Report and “Best Lawyers in America.” Since 1985, Florin|Roebig has served numerous individuals in need of confident legal representation and we’re ready to fight for your rights. Our seasoned attorneys can offer comprehensive legal consultation services at our offices in Florida, Minnesota, Texas and Colorado. Florin|Roebig’s top motorcycle injury attorneys include: Wil H. Florin, B.C.S. Tommy D. Roebig, B.C.S. Shaun M. Cummings Neil P. O’Brien, M.B.A. Luca G. Esposito Chad K. Florin, M.B.A., LL.M. John J. Hart Parker Y. Florin, LL.M. Taylor D. Roebig Hal S. Weitzenfeld Michael A. Ossi, O.C. Lawrence J. Najem, O.C. Nollys R. Solarte, O.C. With over 40 years of experience, our law firm has successfully won over $1 billion in settlements from personal injury cases by providing our clients with high-quality legal representation. Learn more about our attorneys and our process by: Requesting more information on our website – florinroebig.com. Calling our phone number 24/7. Emailing us at info@florinroebig.com. We Are Nationally Awarded Lawyers Find an Experienced Motorcycle Accident Attorney to Help File Your Claim Today Motorcycle accidents can lead to serious consequences, including permanent injury and death. Florin|Roebig attorneys have the knowledge, skills and resources necessary to help you file a strong claim for motorcycle accident-related damages and seek a fair settlement. Don’t wait to begin the process of filing your claim. Contact the offices of Florin|Roebig today to get a free consultation and find a skilled motorcycle accident attorney near you.
