Florida Side Impact Motorcycle Accidents
A side impact, also known as a broadside collision or a T-bone accident, is one of the most dangerous types of motor vehicle crashes for motorcyclists. In these cases, a rider can end up sustaining catastrophic, possibly life-threatening injuries. At Boone & Davis, our Broward County motorcycle accident attorneys have extensive experience handling broadside collision personal injury claims. If you or a loved one was injured in a side impact motorcycle crash, our team is here, ready to assist you.
Why Do Side Impact Motorcycle Accidents Occur?
While side impact collisions are somewhat uncommon, they still occur far too often. This type of accident most frequently occurs at intersections, in parking lots and on the entrance or exit ramps of major highways, where vehicles are traveling in perpendicular directions. As a general rule, if a side impact collision has happened, one driver acted in a negligent manner. Some of the most common examples of driver negligence that can lead to T-bone accidents include:
- Running a red light;
- Running a stop sign;
- Failure to yield when entering or exiting a highway;
- Making an unsafe lane change;
- Distracted driving;
- Intoxicated driving; and
- Speeding through a parking lot.
Broadside Motorcycle Accidents and Liability in Florida
The overwhelming majority of motor vehicles accident claims are governed by state law. If you were injured in a Florida motorcycle accident, this means that your case will be controlled by the state’s no fault statute. Under Florida law, fault is simply not a relevant issue in many auto accident claims. Florida requires all motorists, including bikers, to obtain a minimum of $10,000 in Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance coverage. Following a crash, you will need to file your initial injury claim against your PIP policy. This is true regardless of who was responsible for the crash.
Serious Motorcycle Accidents: Going Beyond the No Fault System
While most claims must be brought under the no fault system, there are cases where a motorcycle crash victim can reach outside of Florida’s general no fault rules. If you sustained serious injuries, such as a permanent injury or a severely disfiguring injury, you are legally permitted to bring a claim directly against the at fault driver.
As T-bone motorcycle accidents tend to be especially dangerous, this is frequently an issue in these types of cases. Under Florida law, you are entitled to compensation for the full value of your damages. Beyond your medical bills, this may also include recovery for lost wages and pain and suffering. The bottom line: if you suffered major injuries in a broadside motorcycle collision, you need to consult with a qualified Broward County personal injury lawyer immediately.
Were You Injured in a Side Impact Collision?
Our attorneys are here to help. At Boone & Davis, our Fort Lauderdale motorcycle accident lawyers have helped many victims obtain a full and fair settlement offer from the insurance company. For immediate assistance with your case, please call us today at 954-566-9919. Our firm is proud to serve communities throughout Broward County, Florida.
