Have you or someone you love been injured in a motorcycle crash in Clearwater, FL? You might be entitled to financial compensation. Call Catania & Catania Injury Lawyers at (727) 513-6765 to schedule a free consultation. An experienced Clearwater motorcycle accident lawyer will fight for the money you deserve.

At Catania and Catania Injury Lawyers, we have fought tirelessly for the rights of motorcycle accident victims for over 28 years. Contact our law office in Clearwater, FL today to schedule a free case review with a motorcycle accident lawyer who can help. There is no fee unless we win.

Why You Should Call Catania & Catania for Help After a Motorcycle Accident in Clearwater, FL

Catania and Catania is comprised of a team of experienced attorneys and counselors who provide the highest quality of legal specialization both in and out of the courtroom. We only represent motorcycle crash victims, never insurance companies, and we treat every case as if it is going to trial. By choosing our law firm, you’ll benefit from Clearwater personal injury attorneys with 120+ years of experience who have won $500 million in damages.

We give you the time you need to recover and handle every aspect of your case:

  • Handle all communications and administrative tasks on your behalf
  • Offer dependable legal advice and support
  • Conduct a thorough investigation into your crash to gather evidence
  • Work with a number of specialists to prove causation, and the extent of your injury
  • Build the best strong evidence-based case possible and pursue all avenues for compensation
  • Accurately value all the damages you sustained and negotiate for a fair settlement
  • Take your case before a jury if the insurance provider does not treat you fairly

At Catania and Catania Injury Lawyers, we understand how traumatic this time is. Hire the best team of Clearwater motorcycle accident lawyers to work on your claims while you focus on your recovery. Our law firm works on a contingency fee basis, so you won’t pay unless we win for you.

We Defend Your Rights As a Motorcyclist

Motorcycle accidents are often more serious than vehicle-to-vehicle accidents since your motorcycle affords so little protection to your body. Being rear-ended at a stop sign or cut-off during a left turn can be nothing short of fatal for motorcyclists.

If your motorcycle accident has caused significant injuries, diminished your ability to work, and destroyed your quality of life, you need a lawyer from Catania and Catania on your side. We are committed to fighting for your legal rights and obtaining the compensation you need to turn your life around.

Clearwater Motorcycle Accident Statistics [2022 Update]

Located within Pinellas County, Clearwater is a welcoming community that offers picturesque views, a vibrant culture, and plenty of things to do, see, and experience. Unfortunately, the area is also a hotspot for traffic incidents.

Data from the Florida Department of Highway and Motor Vehicles (FLHSMV) shows that the streets of Clearwater and the broader Pinellas County region have seen their fair share of accidents, with motorcycle crashes being particularly worrisome.

Out of the staggering 15,681 reported crashes within the county in 2022, there were 437 motorcycle-related incidents. These motorcycle accidents were not just fender benders; tragically, 32 of these incidents resulted in fatalities.

In addition, the rise of hit-and-run incidents, numbering at 4,470 last year alone, demonstrates just how important it is to remain cautious on Clearwater’s roads. For those unfortunate enough to experience a motorcycle crash or any traffic accident, a Clearwater motorcycle accident lawyer from Catania & Catania is here to guide you through the aftermath.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Clearwater, FL

Understanding the primary causes of motorcycle accidents in Clearwater can help you avoid potential dangers and ensure safety on the road.

Some of the most prevalent causes include:

  • Driver Negligence: This is by far the most common reason, with car drivers often overlooking motorcycles in their blind spots or misjudging their speed.
  • Hazardous Road Conditions: Wet roads, potholes, or debris can be particularly treacherous for motorcyclists.
  • Speeding: Excessive speed, whether by the motorcyclist or another vehicle, can lead to catastrophic accidents.
  • DUI: Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs impairs judgment and reaction times, making accidents more likely.
  • Left-Turn Accidents: A significant number of motorcycle accidents occur when cars make left turns, cutting off motorcyclists.
  • Distracted driving.

In so many cases, the careless mistake of a car’s driver leads to life-altering repercussions for innocent victims, including motorcycle riders. Awareness of these common causes can help you take preventive measures as a motorcyclist and do what you can to stay safe on the road. However, if you or a loved one find yourselves in the aftermath of a motorcycle accident, remember to reach out to an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer in Clearwater, FL.

Our team at Catania & Catania is committed to providing the guidance and representation needed to navigate the often complex legal landscape following such incidents. If you or a loved one was injured as the result of another driver’s actions, you deserve justice – because you need to be able to move forward in the healing process. Your safety and rights are paramount, and we’re here to stand by your side. 

Common Clearwater Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Riding a motorcycle can be an exhilarating experience, giving riders a sense of freedom and thrill. However, this freedom comes with its vulnerabilities. In the unfortunate event of an accident, motorcyclists often bear the brunt of the impact, more so than the occupants of enclosed vehicles.

Common injuries associated with motorcycle crashes in Clearwater include:

  • Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Even with a helmet, the force of a crash can cause significant head trauma.
  • Soft Tissue Injuries and Road Rash: Sliding across the pavement can lead to severe skin abrasions and potential infections.
  • Bone Fractures: Especially common are fractures in the arms, legs, and pelvis.
  • Spinal Cord Injuries: A particularly distressing outcome can result in partial or full paralysis.
  • Internal Injuries: Internal bleeding or damage to organs can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.

Given the potentially severe nature of these injuries, seeking immediate medical attention is vital. Furthermore, consulting with a Clearwater motorcycle accident lawyer can help victims navigate the complexities of injury claims, ensuring they receive the compensation they deserve.

We Handle All Types of Clearwater Motorcycle Accident Injury Cases

With little protection in a collision, motorcyclists face a high risk of serious injury or death. The NHTSA has found that people are 27x more likely to be fatally injured in a motorcycle crash than car occupants.

We represent motorcyclists in Clearwater, FL who have suffered:

A Clearwater motorcycle accident can leave you with life-changing severe injuries and affect you for the rest of your life. Even wearing a helmet is also a good way to protect your head especially, since motorcycles don’t have the same safety features other vehicles have. We realize that you may face an unfair stigma over your injuries simply because you chose to ride a motorcycle. We will fight back against insurance adjusters and juries to seek the compensation you deserve.

We’re here to help, 24/7

How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit After a Motorcycle Crash in Florida?

How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Lawsuit After a Motorcycle Crash in Florida?

There is a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits in Florida. Missing this crucial deadline means your case will be dismissed, and you will not be able to recover any compensation. The statute of limitations for a fatal accident is just two years.

Don’t delay your claims. The investigation and negotiation process can take many months. Delays can allow valuable evidence to be lost which may weaken your case. Reach out to our law office today at (727) 513-6765 and program some time to talk to an attorney in Clearwater, FL that will help you protect your claim.

How Much is My Motorcycle Accident Case Worth in Clearwater?

All Clearwater motorcycle accident cases are valued based on many unique, individual variables. There is no formula or calculator that can be used to estimate your case’s worth without adequate investigation.

The value of your motorcycle accident case will likely be based on:

  • The amount of insurance coverage
  • Whether you share the blame
  • The strength of your negligent case
  • How severe are the injuries
  • The cause and circumstances of the collision
  • How your injuries will impact your life and ability to work

After determining the value of your economic damages like medical expenses and lost earnings, we will estimate the value of your non-economic losses like pain and suffering. These estimates will serve as a starting point for negotiations.

The best way to determine the value of your case is to schedule a free case evaluation with a Clearwater motorcycle accident lawyer.

How to Obtain the Most Compensation For Your Clearwater Motorcycle Accident

The first and most important step to obtaining compensation is to seek the support of an experienced motorcycle accident attorney from Catania and Catania. Though you have up to four years to file a personal injury case in connection with your accident, waiting puts you at risk of losing physical evidence, losing contact with witnesses, and being taken advantage of by an insurance company.

Be sure to contact Catania and Catania immediately so we can begin protecting your rights and advocating for a high compensation settlement. Your Catania and Catania motorcycle accident attorney in Clearwater will fight to secure your compensation for common expenses and losses:

  • Lost wages as a result of lost working hours
  • Medical bills and physical therapy expenses
  • Pain and suffering
  • Damage to your motorcycle and other property

Don’t wait to get the professional and experienced help you need to recover compensation after your motorcycle accident. To speak to a Catania and Catania attorney about your motorcycle crash case in Clearwater, call (727) 513-6765 to schedule your free case evaluation.

Can I Still Recover Compensation if I’m Partially at Fault for My Motorcycle Accident?

Can I Still Recover Compensation if I’m Partially at Fault for My Motorcycle Accident in Florida?

Florida follows a pure comparative negligence rule. Liability is assigned to each party based on their share of fault for injuries.

If your own negligence contributed to your harm in any way, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you. In practical terms, say you would have been entitled to $100,000, but a jury found that you were 25% responsible for getting hurt. Your award would be reduced by 25%—to $75,000—because you had a role in getting hurt.

You can count on the at-fault party’s insurer to argue that if you hadn’t been negligent in some way, you wouldn’t have been as severely injured. If you were speeding or riding recklessly, for example, you could have a difficult fight to recover the maximum amount of compensation.

What if I Wasn’t Wearing a Motorcycle Helmet?

Wearing a helmet is always a safe idea. With a few exceptions, it’s also the law in Florida.

Motorcycle Helmet Requirements in Florida

Florida Motorcycle Helmet Requirements

Under Florida law, in most cases, motorcycle riders and passengers are required to wear a helmet. Riders must also wear eye protection. 

If you are at least 21 years old, you can ride without a helmet if you carry an insurance policy that provides at least $10,000 in medical benefits.

You may notice this sounds much like your Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance that pays benefits if you’re in a Clearwater car accident. But it’s important to understand that the PIP coverage on your automobile does not apply to motorcycles. 

While it’s possible to face fines if you’re caught not wearing protective headgear, the more serious consequences occur if you’re involved in a motorcycle crash.

Even if you aren’t required to wear a helmet, it could cost you if you choose to go without one. Research shows that using headgear when you ride reduces your risk of death by a whopping 37%. It reduces your risk of a head injury by 69%.

Can I Still Get Compensation If I’m Not Wearing a Helmet in a Motorcycle Accident?

Can I Still Get Compensation If I’m Not Wearing a Helmet in a Motorcycle Accident?

Probably. Not wearing a helmet won’t necessarily bar you from seeking financial compensation for your injuries. 

You can still file a claim with your insurance company under the state’s no-fault insurance law. If someone else caused your accident and your injuries are severe, you can still file a lawsuit and seek damages from them.

However, keep in mind that Florida has a pure comparative negligence law. Your own negligence – not wearing a motorcycle helmet – could hurt your ability to recover the full value of your injury case. 

You can bet that even if the other party was 100% responsible for the accident itself, their insurance company will argue that if you had been using a helmet at the time, you wouldn’t have been as severely injured.

If you fail to take reasonable precautions, such as wearing protective gear known to prevent harm, you could face significant obstacles to receiving the full amount of compensation available.

What Damages Are Available to Clearwater Motorcycle Accident Victims?

When your Clearwater injury claim is successful, you are entitled to compensation for your economic and non-economic losses after the accident. 

You can obtain compensation for the following types of damages:

You may be entitled to punitive damages as well. A jury awards punitive damages to punish the defendant if they caused your crash through gross negligence or wanton indifference to human life.

How Do I Prove Negligence After a Motorcycle Accident?

Proving someone was negligent requires showing:

  • The other party owed you a duty of care.
  • The defendant breached this duty of care.
  • This breach led to your accident.
  • You suffered damages.

Your Clearwater motorcycle accident attorneys will use many forms of evidence to prove negligence. The police report may indicate the officer’s opinion on the cause. Witness statements, dashcam footage, photos of the scene, and the other driver’s cell phone records may all support your case.

What Should I Do After Being Involved in a Motorcycle Crash in Clearwater, FL?

After a motorcycle accident in Clearwater, a few things can help ensure that you are as safe as possible and that you have the best chance of preserving your right to the maximum compensation available.

Try to remain calm and try to remember these seven steps that will help you the most:

  1. Call 911 and stay at the scene. Never leave the scene of an accident. The police in Clearwater can complete an accident report, which will be helpful to your attorney should you decide to file a lawsuit. Emergency services will take care of medical needs and get you and anyone else who needs it to a hospital.
  2. Document the scene. It may be tough, but if at all possible, snap some photos or videos of the accident scene. Take pictures of your wounds, your bike, other vehicles, the intersection, etc. Anything is helpful.
  3. Get contact and insurance information from other parties involved. If possible, try to get at least the names and insurance companies of the people involved.
  4. Resist the urge to apologize. In a traumatic event, sometimes people just say they’re sorry for the situation and don’t intend to admit fault. But that’s exactly how it will be interpreted. Accident scenes are chaotic and it’s highly likely you don’t really know what happened. So you don’t want to go on record with something that could compromise your case and that may not even be accurate.
  5. Seek medical attention. If you weren’t taken to the hospital from the scene, get to a doctor as soon as possible. Not all wounds are immediately visible. You may be in shock and not realize the extent of your injuries. A documented medical exam will be important to prove your injuries in a personal injury claim.
  6. Don’t talk to insurance adjusters alone. They are not trying to help you out. Their goal is to minimize their payout. They may try to take advantage of your vulnerable state right after a collision and make a subpar offer before you have a chance to talk to a lawyer.

Talk to an experienced local Clearwater motorcycle accident lawyer. A reputable attorney can help you understand all of your legal options and can protect you from unfair blame that could severely limit your chances of getting the maximum compensation available to you.

Clearwater Motorcycle Accident FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions from motorcycle crash victims in Pinellas County.

How Much Does A Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Cost in Clearwater?

Nothing upfront. Most Clearwater motorcycle accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis instead of an hourly rate. That means that they’ll collect their fee at the conclusion of the lawsuit only if they win your case. So, you don’t have to shell out any money upfront, when bills are piling up and money is tight.

A contingency fee is typically anywhere from 33% to 40% of your award. Each attorney will have their own fee agreement, so make sure you understand it before you sign it.

Do I Need A Lawyer If I Wasn’t at Fault for My Motorcycle Accident in Clearwater?

It’s always a good idea to hire a lawyer if you’ve been in a motorcycle accident in Clearwater, FL. If you weren’t at fault, the insurance agency is going to blame you anyway.

It’s just how they operate. They deal with billions of dollars worth of claims paid every year. They are private companies trying to maximize their profits, so they’ll look for every reason not to pay you what you’re due.

A lawyer who is well-trained in personal injury law will know the ins and outs of working with stubborn adjusters. If you’re not represented by legal counsel, unfortunately, insurers often try to bully you into taking a lowball offer.

How Long Will My Motorcycle Accident Case Take To Settle?

Very likely, months to years. Each case is different. Even relatively straightforward cases can take several months.

Some factors that can affect how quickly a case proceeds can include:

  • The parties’ opinions of how much the case is worth
  • Whether there were multiple parties involved
  • The extent of the disputes over facts or law

Sometimes injured victims need money as soon as possible and may prefer an early settlement. Or, sometimes insurance adjusters settle quickly because they know their covered party was responsible and they don’t want to face a jury when the facts are stacked against them.

If both parties are dug in and there are complex issues requiring expert testimony and extensive investigation, the case could go on for several years.

Contact a Clearwater Motorcycle Accident Lawyer for a Free Consultation

If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident due to the negligence or recklessness of another driver, you need to seek aggressive legal support from the team at Catania and Catania.

After a serious motorcycle collision, you should not have to fight the at-fault driver or their insurance company for fair compensation. Don’t accept a settlement offer from the insurance company without speaking with an injury lawyer first.

Our mission at Catania and Catania is to put individuals and families first and provide the best recovery possible for our clients. Our experienced motorcycle accident and personal injury team in Clearwater is committed to fighting for your rights and securing the compensation you need after your motorcycle accident.

Don’t wait to get the professional and experienced help you need to recover compensation after your motorcycle accident. Speak to a Catania and Catania attorney about your motorcycle crash case today! Contact our team of experienced Clearwater motorcycle accident lawyers at (727) 513-6765 to schedule your free case evaluation

Additional Motorcycle Accident Resources & Information

Motorcycle Accident Review

Motorcycle Accident Review

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