Fort Pierce Motorcycle Accident Attorneys
Motorcycle Accidents in St. Lucie County
Any motorcycle enthusiast knows the risks, but few expect to ever be involved in a serious accident. Unfortunately, many are. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), more than 5,000 motorcyclists were killed in 2019, and motorcyclists’ risk of being involved in a fatal traffic accident was almost 30 times higher than occupants of passenger vehicles.
At Smith, Ball & Báez, we understand the unique challenges injured motorcyclists and their families face. Our Fort Pierce motorcycle accident attorneys are here to guide you through the recovery process, providing the dedicated and tireless advocacy you need. We offer compassionate, one-on-one client support, as well as aggressive representation against insurance companies’ efforts to dispute or deny our clients’ claims. If necessary, we are fully prepared to take your case to court if that is what it takes to fight for the full, fair compensation you are owed.
If you or someone you love has been injured in a motorcycle accident, help is just a call away! Contact us online or call (561) 500-HELP to schedule a free initial consultation.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Just like other types of motor vehicle accidents, including car accidents and large commercial truck accidents, most motorcycle accidents are the result of negligence. Although there is a common misconception that motorcyclists are the ones who are often careless or reckless on the road, we at Smith, Ball & Báez recognize that this is not necessarily the case. In fact, most motorcycle accidents are the result of another driver’s negligent or wrongful conduct.
Some examples of negligent driving behaviors that frequently lead to motorcycle accidents include:
- Speeding
- Distracted driving
- Texting or using a cellphone while driving
- Driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs
- Fatigued or drowsy driving
- Traffic law violations
- Failure to obey traffic control devices, such as red lights or stop signs
- Failure to yield the right of way
- Following too closely, or “tailgating”
- Failure to keep a lookout for motorcycles
- Failure to check vehicle blind spots for motorcycles
- Aggressive or reckless driving
- Road rage
Outside factors can also contribute to motorcycle accidents. Poor visibility—whether due to weather conditions, defective roadway construction, or other causes—is one of the most common factors in these types of collisions. However, “not seeing a motorcyclist” is not a valid excuse; if someone else was at fault for the accident that left you injured or caused the tragic death of your loved one, you deserve justice—no matter the reason.
Are Motorcycle Accidents Covered Under No-Fault Insurance in Florida?
Although Florida is a no-fault auto insurance state, this does not apply to motorcycles. In other words, motorcyclists are not covered by no-fault insurance. As a result, they are not automatically entitled to compensation from their insurance providers after an accident. Instead, they must typically prove that another person or party was at fault for the collision and then file a claim against the liable party’s insurance carrier.
Because motorcyclists are not covered by no-fault auto insurance in Florida, it is strongly recommended that they purchase insurance beyond the minimum liability limits required by the state. One way motorcyclists can protect themselves is to purchase uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage. This type of insurance protects you in the event that you are hit by someone who does not have insurance or only has the minimum liability insurance requirements, which may not be sufficient to cover the full cost of your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages. UM/UIM also covers you if you are injured in a hit-and-run.
How a Motorcycle Accident Attorney Can Help
Motorcycle accidents tend to be far more devastating than other types of motor vehicle collisions. Because motorcyclists have relatively little protection, they are likely to sustain catastrophic, life-altering injuries. This typically results in exorbitant medical bills, as well as weeks, months, or even years of lost wages in addition to extreme physical pain and emotional suffering.
After a motorcycle accident, you shouldn’t have to worry about fighting with the insurance company for the fair compensation you are owed. However, insurance adjusters often do whatever they can to dispute or deny claims. They may argue that you were at fault for the accident, or they may claim that your injury was a preexisting condition. This can add unnecessary stress during an already difficult time in your life.
When you trust your case to an experienced Fort Worth motorcycle accident lawyer at Smith, Ball & Báez, you can focus on healing while we handle every detail of your case.
Our team can:
- Work with accident reconstructionists, medical professionals, and other experts to investigate the cause of the crash and the extent of your injuries
- Gather important evidence, such as witness statements and surveillance footage (if available), to support your claim
- Work with your doctors and obtain your medical records to prove the nature, severity, and extent of your injuries and related damages
- Submitting necessary paperwork and documentation related to your claim, as well as ensuring all applicable deadlines are met
- Communicating with the insurance company on your behalf, including negotiating with insurance adjusters for a fair settlement
- Preparing your case for litigation, if necessary, and representing you and your best interests in arbitration and/or at trial
Our team is here to assist you every step of the way, providing answers to your questions and addressing any concerns you may have. We have successfully recovered millions of dollars on behalf of severely injured motorcycle accident victims, as well as the families of those wrongfully killed in fatal accidents.
Call (561) 500-HELP or contact us online for a complimentary consultation. There are no attorney fees unless/until we recover compensation for you.
What Sets Us Apart
Committed to Fighting for Justice for the Injured-
Over $100 Million Recovered
Our results speak for themselves, and our team is dedicated to winning for you.
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AV-Rated With Martindale Hubbell
We are ranked by the most prestigious peer review rating an attorney can receive for high ethical standards and professional ability.
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Over 65 Years of Experience
With over 65 years of combined experience, our attorneys know what it takes to win for you while adhering to the highest ethical standards.
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Award-Winning Attorneys
Our attorneys are committed to excellence and are recognized for their hard work with many accolades from the legal community.
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We're Not Afraid to Litigate
We're trial lawyers at heart and don't shy away from the courtroom; we'll put our compassionate tenacity to work for you.
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A Florida Firm With Extensive Resources
No case is too big; we'll utilize our large network of experts, connections in the legal community, and deep well of resources to help you win.