Practice Area West Palm Beach Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Motorcycle accidents are serious. They can leave you with major injuries, stress, and big medical bills. At Casas Law, we understand how overwhelming this can be, and we’re here to fight for your rights. If you’ve been hurt in a motorcycle accident, our experienced West Palm Beach motorcycle accident lawyers are ready to help you get the compensation you deserve.
Schedule Free Consultation
Motorcycle Accident Attorneys: We Are On Your Side
If you have been involved in a motorcycle collision, Casas Law is here to help. Contact us today for a free initial consultation.
CALL TODAY
(561) 655-8444
Se Habla Español
GET FREE CONSULTATION
Why Work with Casas Law?
At Casas Law, we make sure every client gets personal attention and care. Here’s what you can expect when you work with us:- We Know Motorcycle Cases: We understand the unique challenges motorcycle accident cases bring and know how to build a strong case.
- Personalized Service: Every case is different, and we create a strategy that fits your situation.
- Bilingual Legal Support: Our team is fluent in both English and Spanish, helping us serve a wide range of clients in West Palm Beach.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Most motorcycle accidents happen because of negligence. Some common causes include:- Drivers not paying attention to motorcyclists
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Drivers changing lanes without looking
- Drunk or drug-impaired driving
- Drivers failing to yield to motorcycles
Common Injuries from Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents often result in serious injuries, including:- Brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones and fractures
- Road rash and burns
- Internal injuries
How We Help You
At Casas Law, we offer step-by-step support for every part of your case:- Free Case Review – We listen to your story and explain your legal options.
- Evidence Collection – We gather the proof needed to build a solid case.
- Negotiations with Insurance – We handle the insurance companies so they don’t pressure you into a bad deal.
- Court Representation – If needed, we’ll take your case to court and fight for you.
Three Reasons Why Florida’s System Poses Challenges for Motorcyclists in West Palm Beach
- No-fault insurance Doesn’t Apply to Motorcycles Florida’s Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance law applies to cars but doesn’t cover motorcyclists. This leaves riders without automatic medical coverage, making them more reliant on the at-fault driver’s insurance.
- Comparative Negligence Law Can Reduce Compensation Florida follows comparative negligence rules, meaning your compensation is reduced by your share of the fault. If you are found even slightly responsible for the accident, your total compensation can be reduced accordingly.
- Motorcycle Riders Are Vulnerable to Severe Injuries Motorcycles offer little protection compared to cars. Florida’s busy roads and frequent accidents increase the risk of severe injuries, which means higher medical costs and financial challenges for riders.
What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in West Palm Beach, Florida
- Get Medical Attention: Seek medical care immediately, even if you feel fine. Some injuries, like concussions, may not show symptoms right away.
- Call the Police: An accident report is crucial for insurance claims and legal cases.
- Gather Evidence: Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any property damage.
- Get Witness Information: Collect contact details from anyone who saw the accident.
- Contact a Lawyer: A motorcycle accident lawyer in West Palm Beach can help protect your rights and handle insurance negotiations.
Things You Should Not Do When Dealing With a West Palm Beach Florida Motorcycle Accident Case
- Do Not Admit Fault: Even apologizing at the scene can be used against you later.
- Avoid Talking to Insurance Adjusters Without a Lawyer: Insurance companies may try to minimize your claim. Let your lawyer handle communications.
- Do Not Delay Medical Treatment: Gaps in treatment can hurt your case.
- Avoid Posting on Social Media: Anything you post could be used to dispute your claim.
- Don’t Accept the First Settlement Offer: Insurance companies often offer low initial settlements.
Does Wearing a Helmet Affect the Outcome of Your Florida Motorcycle Accident Case?
While Florida law does not require helmets for riders over 21 with at least $10,000 in medical insurance, not wearing a helmet can affect your case. Insurance companies may argue that your injuries could have been less severe if you had worn a helmet, reducing your compensation. Even if you weren’t wearing a helmet, you can still seek compensation, but the outcome may be influenced by your decision.IMPORTANT NEW TORT REFORM INFORMATION
In 2023, Florida enacted tort reform laws that impact personal injury cases, including:- Shortened statute of limitations for personal injury cases from four years to two years.
- Modified comparative negligence law: If you are more than 50% at fault, you are no longer eligible for compensation. These changes make it even more important to act quickly and work with a lawyer who understands the new rules.
2024 Helmet Usage Statistics for Motorcycle Riders
- 21% of motorcyclists in Florida do not wear helmets, despite the increased risk of injury.
- Riders without helmets are 40% more likely to suffer fatal head injuries in accidents, underscoring the life-saving role of helmets.
- Helmet use reduces the risk of death by 37% and lowers the chance of serious head injuries by 69%.
2023 Statistics for Motorcycle and Motor Scooter Accidents in West Palm Beach, Florida
- In 2023, 257 motorcycle accidents were reported in West Palm Beach alone.
- 22% of these accidents resulted in severe injuries, and 8% were fatal, emphasizing the dangerous nature of motorcycle travel.
- Nearly 35% of accidents involved drivers impaired by alcohol or distracted by mobile devices.
- 15% of motorcycle-related accidents involved motor scooters, a growing trend in urban settings.
Quick Action Following a West Palm Beach Motorcycle Accident is Vital
Acting quickly after an accident is essential to building a strong case. Here’s why:- Preserving Evidence: The scene can change quickly, so it’s important to gather evidence right away.
- Witnesses’ Memories Fade: Getting witness statements immediately aides in accurate accounts.
- Medical Documentation: Prompt medical care connects your injuries to the accident, strengthening your case.
- Meeting Legal Deadlines: With new tort reform rules, you only have two years to file a claim.
How to Choose the Right West Palm Beach Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
- Experience with Motorcycle Cases: Look for a lawyer with experience handling motorcycle accident cases specifically.
- Knowledge of Florida Law: Your attorney should be well-versed in Florida’s insurance and tort reform laws.
- Proven Track Record: Ask for testimonials and case results to evaluate the lawyer’s success rate.
- Clear Communication: Choose a lawyer who explains your options clearly and keeps you informed throughout the process.
- Contingency Fee Structure: Make sure the lawyer works on a contingency basis, meaning you don’t pay unless you win.
What should I do right after a motorcycle accident?
After a motorcycle accident, follow these steps to protect yourself:
- Get medical help immediately, even if you don’t feel hurt. Injuries may not be obvious right away, and medical records will support your case.
- Call the police to file an accident report. This report can be crucial for your claim.
- Gather evidence: Take photos of the scene, your injuries, and any property damage. Collect contact information from witnesses and the other driver.
- Avoid admitting fault when speaking to the other driver or their insurance company.
- Contact a motorcycle accident lawyer in West Palm Beach as soon as possible to protect your legal rights and get advice on your next steps.
-
Q
How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim in Florida?
AIn Florida, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is four years from the date of the accident. If you miss this deadline, you may lose your right to compensation. However, certain exceptions may apply:- If the injured person is a minor, the deadline could be extended.
- In wrongful death cases, the time limit may be shorter—only two years from the date of death.
-
Q
What if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?
AIf the other driver is uninsured or underinsured, you may still have options. Our attorneys will explore other ways to recover compensation, such as:- Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM) Coverage: If you have UM coverage on your policy, it can help cover medical expenses and lost wages.
- Pursuing a personal injury lawsuit against the driver directly, if they have assets.
-
Q
How much is my motorcycle accident case worth?
AThe value of a motorcycle accident case varies, depending on several factors:- Medical expenses: Current and future costs of medical treatment, including rehabilitation.
- Lost wages: Compensation for missed work and reduced earning capacity if your injuries prevent you from working in the future.
- Pain and suffering: Compensation for emotional distress and the impact on your quality of life.
- Property damage: The cost of repairing or replacing your motorcycle and any personal belongings damaged in the accident.
-
Q
Will I need to go to court?
AMost motorcycle accident cases settle out of court, but some cases require litigation. If we cannot reach a fair settlement with the insurance company, we are fully prepared to represent you in court. Our team will guide you through the process, making sure you know what to expect every step of the way. -
Q
Can I still get compensation if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?
AYes, Florida law allows you to seek compensation even if you were not wearing a helmet. However, not wearing a helmet may impact the amount you can recover for head injuries. The insurance company may argue that your injuries could have been less severe if you had worn a helmet, which can reduce your compensation. Our experienced attorneys will build a strong case to counter these arguments and fight for fair compensation. -
Q
What kinds of damages can I recover?
AIn a motorcycle accident case, you may be eligible to recover:- Medical expenses: Hospital bills, surgeries, medications, and physical therapy.
- Lost wages: Compensation for time missed from work due to your injuries.
- Pain and suffering: Compensation for emotional and physical pain caused by the accident.
- Property damage: Repair or replacement costs for your motorcycle.
- Loss of consortium: Compensation if the accident has negatively impacted your relationship with a spouse or family member.
-
Q
What if I was partially at fault for the accident?
AEven if you were partly at fault, you may still recover compensation under Florida’s comparative negligence law. This law allows you to recover damages, but your award will be reduced based on your percentage of fault. For example, if you were found to be 20% at fault, your compensation would be reduced by 20%. We will work to minimize your share of the fault and maximize your compensation. -
Q
How long does it take to settle a motorcycle accident case?
AThe timeline for settling a case depends on several factors:- The severity of your injuries: More severe injuries take longer to document, which can extend the settlement process.
- Negotiations with insurance companies: Some insurers may delay or deny claims, requiring extended negotiations.
- Whether the case goes to court: If a settlement isn’t reached, the case may take longer due to court proceedings.
-
Q
How much does it cost to hire Casas Law?
AAt Casas Law, we work on a contingency fee basis. This means you don’t pay us anything unless we win your case. If we secure compensation for you, our fee will come from a percentage of the settlement or award. This arrangement helps us fully invest in getting you the best possible outcome. -
Q
What areas do you serve?
ACasas Law proudly serves clients throughout South Florida, including:- West Palm Beach
- Palm Beach Gardens
- Boynton Beach
- Boca Raton
- Lake Worth
- Delray Beach