According to Ride Smart Florida, more than 14,000 people were injured in motorcycle crashes during 2015 on Florida roadways. Overall, there are more than 625,000 motorcycles registered in Florida accounting for nearly 4% of all roadway traffic.
More frightening statistics
Unfortunately, the statistics on the number of accidents is only the beginning of the tale of how serious these accidents can be for victims. There were nearly 600 fatalities during 2015. Those who survived motorcycle accidents faced significant injuries including:
- Traumatic brain injuries – 20% of victims who survived an accident suffered from traumatic brain injuries
- Lower extremity injuries – 35% of all victims suffered injuries to their lower extremities. In all, 20 times more emergency visits occurred after a motorcycle accident.
- Fractures – nearly 50% of injuries involved fractures and superficial wounds after a motorcycle accident.
Insurance companies often do not help
One of the problems that many of those injured in a motorcycle accident face is getting insurance companies to pay for their injuries. Insurance companies are faced with an interesting conflict. They are obligated to deal with claims but they also have to answer to shareholders in many cases. This means they keep their clients (the insured) happy when they pay claims but they keep shareholders happy when they reject a claim. Too often, this means those who are injured or have lost a loved one in a motorcycle accident are facing an uphill battle.
Fortunately, personal injury attorneys, like those at Hancock Injury Attorneys, can help. An attorney who understands motorcycle accidents understands they are often far more severe than a car accident simply because of the lack of protection cyclists have. Let’s face it, a car has far more protection than a motorcycle when involved in an accident.
Numbers speak loudly
The number of motorcycle accidents in the state of Florida seems to be going up. There has also been an increase in the severity of these accidents since the helmet laws have been repealed. If you are injured and need help collecting money for your injuries, you need to hire a motorcycle accident attorney who will help protect your rights and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Do you need a motorcycle accident attorney in Tampa?
A motorcycle accident can cause debilitating injuries that can result in broken bones, traumatic brain injury and even death. If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident or you have lost a loved one in a motorcycle accident, contact the Hancock Injury Attoreys for help. Keep in mind your initial consultation is free and if we are unable to secure a settlement, you pay nothing for our services.
