Experienced Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Serving Palm Beach County, FL
Contact an attorney who protects the rights of injured bikers in Florida
Many Floridians know the feeling of freedom and exhilaration that comes with riding on two wheels, especially here in Palm Beach Gardens. However, that thrill comes with significant risks, given the lack of protective barriers that leave riders exposed to serious injuries in the event of an accident. Injured bikers have the right to pursue compensation for their losses, but the process is not always easy. That’s when having an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer on your side is essential.
“Casey and his team are amazing. From our first meeting, he explained everything to me in terms I could easily understand and was always very responsive when I had questions outside of our meetings. He and his team worked hard and were very organized. They got back to me quickly and made it a seamless operation. I highly recommend and will work with this law office again. Thanks, team!” – Nick P.
At The Law Offices of Casey D. Shomo, P.A. in Palm Beach Gardens, we understand the unique challenges and risks faced by motorcyclists on the road. Mr. Shomo and his team provide top-notch legal representation and support for those who have been injured in motorcycle accidents in the Palm Beach County area. Whether you’re dealing with debilitating injuries, mounting medical bills, or the emotional toll of a traumatic motorcycle accident, our law firm is here to help.
Motorcycle accident case results
- $1,200,000 in a wrongful death case where a motorcycle’s right of way was violated by a pickup truck, resulting in the tragic death of the motorcycle operator.
- $1,025,000 for a motor vehicle/motorcycle accident that led to surgical injuries.
- $400,000 awarded in a hit-and-run motorcycle case involving shoulder injuries.
- $300,000 for a motorcycle rider involved in a motor vehicle accident that resulted in surgical injuries.
Mr. Shomo is adept at handling a wide range of motorcycle accident cases, from negotiating with insurance companies to litigating complex claims. Our team understands the physical, financial, and emotional toll that an accident can impose, and our goal is to alleviate that burden by providing unparalleled legal support. If you’re grappling with the aftermath of a motorcycle accident in Palm Beach Gardens, Palm Beach County, or anywhere in Florida, contact us. Our law firm is here to stand by your side and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Common causes of motorcycle accidents
While motorcycles offer a thrilling ride, there are many associated risks, especially when it comes to other vehicles sharing the road with bikers. Motorcycle accidents can happen for many different reasons and understanding them can help prevent them from ever happening, or help motorcyclists try and avoid them.
Distracted driving
When a driver becomes distracted, it is likely they may not notice other road users, especially motorcycles that are less visible than other types of vehicles. Drivers may be looking down at their phones, talking to their passengers, or eating and not see a biker in front of them or in the lane next to them. With their attention diverted from the road, they can easily crash into a motorcyclist and cause a serious accident.
Speeding
Speeding, a common behavior among motorists, can have severe consequences for motorcycle riders on the road. When a car exceeds the speed limit, it not only violates traffic laws but also significantly increases the risk of accidents involving motorcycles. Bikers are already at high risk of injuries and death when involved in a crash, and that only increases when speeding is a factor. If a driver is speeding, they are more likely to lose control and be unable to avoid a biker on the road.
Tailgating
Tailgating, when a car drives too closely behind a motorcycle, is a serious safety concern on the road. It reduces the motorcyclist’s space cushion and limits their ability to maneuver safely. Tailgating leaves little room for error. If the motorcyclist needs to brake suddenly or if a driver is simply not paying attention, there’s little either can do to avoid a crash. This increases the risk of motorcycle accidents, making it vital for drivers to maintain safe following distances.
Drunk driving
Motorcyclists face significant risks when encountering drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs, as these individuals often exhibit erratic driving behavior. This reckless behavior puts anyone in their path, including motorcyclists, at risk of being involved in a crash. Motorcycle accidents resulting from drunk driving are particularly devastating collisions. These accidents frequently occur suddenly, leaving little time for a motorcyclist to react. Additionally, with impaired judgment and coordination, the intoxicated driver may be unable to respond effectively, increasing the severity of the accident.
Road hazards
Motorcyclists are highly vulnerable to the dangers posed by road hazards, such as potholes, debris, and uneven pavement. These hazards can increase the risk of accidents, as they can cause motorcyclists to lose control of their bikes or swerve unexpectedly. Such road hazards may be insignificant to cars and larger vehicles, but for riders on motorcycles encountering road hazards can mean a fatal accident.
Types of motorcycle accidents
When it comes to navigating the roads on a motorcycle, there’s no shortage of potential hazards. As a biker it is important to understand the various types of motorcycle accidents that can occur on Florida roads.
- Head-on collisions: When another vehicle suddenly crashes into a motorcycle head-on, it can result in severe injuries and in worst case scenario, death. These motorcycle accidents often occur due to reckless driving and driving under the influence.
- Rear-end accidents: If you’re at a red light, patiently waiting for it to turn green, the last thing you’d expect is a car crashing into your motorcycle. Rear-end accidents are typically caused by drivers who are distracted, tailgating, or simply not paying attention to the road ahead. For motorcyclists, these accidents can lead to devastating consequences, as the lack of protection leaves them vulnerable to serious injuries upon impact.
- Left turn accidents: One of the most common types of motorcycle crashes is the left turn accident. These occur when a motorcycle is hit by a vehicle making a left turn, often due to misjudgments of speed or failure to yield. Left turn accidents can happen suddenly and catch a biker off guard, leaving them little time to avoid the crash.
- Dooring: While you may be safely cruising along, a car door can suddenly swing open in your path. Dooring accidents typically occur in urban areas where parallel parking is common and can potentially lead to serious injuries.
- Lane switching accidents: These accidents occur when a motorcyclist is struck by a vehicle changing lanes without proper signaling or checking blind spots, leading to collisions or forced evasive maneuvers.
Motorcycle laws in Florida
In Florida, motorcycle riders have the right to share the road with other vehicles, such as cars and trucks. They are governed by the same rules and responsibilities as other drivers. This means that bikers must obey all traffic signals and signs just like motorists in cars. Additionally, like how slower vehicles are expected to use the right-hand lane, motorcyclists traveling at a slower pace should stay as close to the right curb as possible.
Unfortunately, despite these clear regulations, motorcycle accidents still occur due to drivers failing to recognize or respect the rights of motorcyclists on the road. This lack of awareness or disregard for motorcycles as equal road users can lead to dangerous situations and potentially fatal accidents.
Motorcycle accident compensation
In the unfortunate event of a motorcycle accident, victims may be entitled to compensation for their damages. This compensation is designed to help alleviate the financial burdens of the accident. You may be able to be compensated for:
- Medical expenses such as hospitalization
- Follow-up medical care, including consultations with specialists, physical therapy, surgeries, and other treatments.
- Lost income if the victim is unable to work during their recovery period.
- Future income if the victim is permanently disabled and unable to return to work.
- Pain and suffering endured from the accident, including physical and emotional pain, discomfort, and distress.
Get experience, compassion, and support by your side with Casey D. Shomo
At The Law Offices of Casey D. Shomo, P.A., we understand the impact that a motorcycle accident can have on your life. From serious injuries to expensive medical bills, the aftermath can be overwhelming. Our law firm treats every client like family, providing support and personalized attention every step of the way.
Don’t navigate this challenging time alone. Get help from a compassionate motorcycle accident attorney. Contact us today for a free consultation, or visit us at our office, conveniently located in Palm Beach Gardens.
“He went above and beyond in every aspect.” – Kim R.