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Florida has a lot to offer motorcyclists, including pristine beaches, wetlands, and weeklong celebrations of the sport. The temperate weather allows you to ride all year long, although it also plays a role in the state’s ranking as the deadliest for motorcyclists.
Unfortunately, following Clearwater motorcycle traffic laws and taking safety precautions does not make you immune to accidents. If a negligent motorist fails to see you, speeds, drives under the influence, or texts while sharing the road with you, accidents can happen. After your immediate injuries are treated, contact our skilled motorcycle accident attorneys at Herman & Wells for empathetic guidance, beginning with a free case evaluation.
The state requires motorcyclists younger than 21 to wear protective helmets approved by the Department of Transportation, along with goggles or face shields. If you are 21 or older, you are not required to wear a helmet, but you must purchase an insurance policy of at least $10,000 to pay for potential injuries sustained in an accident.
The World Health Organization advises that motorcycle helmets save lives, reducing fatalities by 42 percent, and are the difference between grave and minor harm, reducing catastrophic injuries by 69 percent. As an adult, if you choose not to wear a motorcycle helmet, the motorist who caused your accident, an insurer, or an opposing attorney may claim your settlement or damages award should be reduced because your injuries are in part self-inflicted. Do not settle for less if you followed Clearwater motorcycle safety laws. Our attorneys at Herman & Wells have extensive trial experience to apply to your case, and we could fight to win a fair money award.
State statutes and Clearwater ordinances provide guidance for all motorists, including motorcyclists. Along with helmet requirements, you must:
You must carry a designation on your driver’s license to operate a motorcycle, which is available after taking a state-approved safe operations course. Alternatively, you can apply for a Motorcycle Only license.
If you are involved in an accident in Clearwater, failing to follow motorcycle traffic ordinances can impact whether you can receive compensation for your losses and the amount available. Our attorneys could advise you of your options during a free case evaluation.
In 2023, the state legislature reformed tort law, which affects personal injury accidents, including those involving motorcycles. The reform involves cases in which you are deemed partly at fault and how long you have to file a lawsuit.
Under the modified comparative negligence doctrine, you cannot be more than 50 percent responsible for the accident to collect damages. The damages award will be reduced by the motorcyclist’s percentage of fault for violating traffic laws that contributed to the bike crash in Clearwater. An attorney from Herman & Wells could help evaluate your share of fault, protect your rights, and pursue the maximum compensation available under Florida’s updated tort laws.
Even if you follow all traffic laws and ordinances, motorcycle accidents can still happen. Because your helmet and clothing are your only protection, the injuries you may incur can be devastating.
Our lawyers at Herman & Wells bring extensive knowledge and experience to your personal injury case. Insurers may press you to settle, but we may be able to present convincing evidence during litigation to win fair compensation. Obeying Clearwater motorcycle traffic laws may support your case, which we can discuss during your free case evaluation. Call us today.
