Motorcycle riding can be an exhilarating and enjoyable experience, but it also comes with significant risks. Every rider must be aware of Florida’s motorcycle laws to ensure their safety and comply with state regulations. Understanding and complying with these laws can affect the outcome of a personal injury case.
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident in Tampa, Florida, we are here to help you understand the laws that apply to your case. At Winters & Yonker Personal Injury Lawyers, we have 119 years of combined legal experience. Our Tampa motorcycle accident lawyers have helped countless accident victims. Our firm has recovered tens of millions of dollars for clients.
We won’t back down from a fight over the compensation you deserve. Contact us at (813) 223-6200 today to schedule a free consultation. During the meeting, you can discuss your legal options with an experienced Tampa personal injury attorney.
Why Choose Winters & Yonker Personal Injury Lawyers for a Motorcycle Accident Case in Florida?
When dealing with motorcycle accidents in Tampa, FL, it’s essential to have a lawyer who understands the nuances of Florida’s motorcycle laws. That’s where Winters & Yonker Personal Injury Lawyers comes in.
Here are some of the benefits of hiring our Tampa motorcycle accident attorneys:
- 119 years of combined experience
- Proven success in recovering compensation
- Aggressive and compassionate representation
- Comprehensive legal support
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident in Florida, contact our office today for a free consultation. Our Tampa personal injury lawyers are here to help you understand your rights and guide you through the legal process.
What Are the Key Motorcycle Laws in Florida?
Florida has several key laws and regulations that apply specifically to motorcycles and their riders. Understanding these laws can help you stay safe on the road and avoid legal issues in the event of an accident. Some important Florida motorcycle laws include:
Helmet Requirements
In Florida, motorcycle helmets are not required for riders over 21 as long as they are properly insured. To qualify for the exemption, you need a policy with at least $10,000 in medical coverage for motorcycle-related injuries. Wearing a helmet is mandatory for riders under 21. For any rider, wearing a helmet can greatly reduce the risk of severe head injuries in an accident.
Lane Splitting
Lane splitting, or riding a motorcycle between slow-moving or stopped traffic lanes, is illegal in Florida. Riders must stay within the boundaries of their lane and must not maneuver between lanes unless there is enough space and it is safe to do so.
Motorcycle Endorsement
To legally operate a motorcycle in Florida, riders must obtain a motorcycle endorsement on their driver’s license. This requires passing a knowledge test and a skills test unless the rider has completed a motorcycle safety course that qualifies them for an exemption.
Motorcycle Insurance
Florida law requires that all motorcyclists carry personal injury protection (PIP) coverage. However, the minimum coverage limits are often inadequate to cover serious injuries. It’s essential to consider additional coverage options, such as bodily injury liability, to ensure adequate protection during a crash.
Headlights
Florida law requires motorcycles to operate with their headlights on at all times, day or night, to increase visibility. This rule is designed to make motorcyclists more noticeable to other drivers and reduce the likelihood of accidents.
Passenger Restrictions
A passenger may only ride on a motorcycle if there is a proper seat and footrests. This ensures that the rider and passenger both have a safe and secure place to sit while traveling.
Motorcycle Safety Course
Florida offers a Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) course that can help riders learn valuable skills to reduce the risk of accidents. Riders who complete the course may be eligible for discounts on insurance premiums and may be able to avoid the riding skills test to obtain a license.
Understanding and adhering to these laws is crucial. Violating these laws could impact your claim, particularly if you are found partially responsible for the accident.
What Should I Do if I’m Being Blamed for a Motorcycle Accident in Florida?
If you are being blamed for a motorcycle accident, Florida’s comparative negligence rule comes into play. This means that if you are partially at fault, your compensation may be reduced based on your percentage of fault. However, if you are less than 51% at fault, you can usually still recover damages.
For example, if you are found 30% at fault, and your total damages amount to $100,000, your total recovery would likely be reduced to $70,000.
We will work to minimize any blame shifted toward you and fight to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries. We will investigate your accident, gather evidence, and challenge any attempt to shift liability to you.
Contact a Tampa Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today
If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident in Florida, Winters & Yonker Personal Injury Lawyers is here to assist. With more than a century of experience, we are dedicated to securing the compensation you need. Contact us today to schedule a free case review with our Tampa motorcycle accident lawyer to get started on the path to justice.
