The Sun-Sentinel reported in March of 2013 on a Florida Department of Transportation study that found that car and truck drivers are to blame for collisions with motorcycles in 60% of cases. Motorcycle riders typically ride defensively, but there are many situations when even the most safety conscious rider cannot avoid a crash with a negligent driver.

Motorcycle riders have all the same rights and responsibilities on the road as car and truck drivers, and they have a right to share the road with other vehicles. Unfortunately, drivers frequently cause collisions with motorcycles by making lane changes, turning or crossing intersections without looking. Sometimes the driver may be texting on a cell phone. Other times he or she may simply not have checked the blind spots in the mirrors to see if a rider was in the next lane or elsewhere nearby. Whatever the case, a driver can – and should – be held accountable for negligently causing a crash.

According to the most recent statistics published by the Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, there were a total of 9,384 motorcycle accidents statewide in 2012. This figure was higher than the three-year average of 8,496. Whereas a large percentage of reported car crashes do not result in serious injury, motorcycle accidents nearly always leave someone injured or killed. The crashes reported in 2012 saw 8,648 injured riders and passengers and 457 deaths.

The question that determines whether you have grounds for a lawsuit over your motorcycle crash is, “Was someone else at fault?” If another driver struck you or a loved one while riding, and this was due to the driver’s negligent, careless or reckless driving, you may have grounds to sue. Alternatively, you might have a case against a vehicle or equipment manufacturer if the accident was caused by a defective product.

Florida is one of a few states where drivers are required to carry personal injury protection insurance, also referred to as no-fault coverage. This type of insurance pays even if the policy holder was to blame. Unfortunately, PIP does not cover injuries suffered in a motorcycle accident. If you were hurt or have lost a loved one in a motorcycle accident in Boca Raton, you will most likely have to file a claim against the at-fault driver’s liability insurance policy.

Because your motorcycle accident is not covered by Florida’s no-fault law, you might be facing a considerable financial challenge in obtaining the medial treatment you need to make a full recovery. Fortunately, you can come to Willis Law, P.A. for help. The firm has established relationships with several doctors in the Boca Raton area who will often agree to provide treatment on the understanding that payment will be delayed until the final settlement or award is paid.