The scenic coastal views and pleasant year-round weather of Venice, Florida, attracts many motorcycle enthusiasts. Motorcyclists can ride comfortably, enjoying the city’s numerous events and attractions in any season. However, while this benefits the city, it leads to an increased number of accidents. You may be involved in a motorcycle accident if another road user acts negligently.
Being injured in a motorcycle accident can result in financial losses, including medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage, which can lead to financial strain. That’s why it’s necessary to hold the negligent party responsible.
You need experienced legal representation to build a strong case to receive the compensation you deserve. Jack Bernstein, Injury Attorneys, is passionate about helping victims injured in motorcycle accidents in Venice. Schedule a free consultation today to learn more about your case.
Were you injured in a motorcycle accident? Contact Jack Bernstein, Injury Attorneys, now.
Understanding Motorcycle Accidents in Venice, Florida
Motorcycle accidents in Venice, Florida, are concerning. You need to be well-informed about them to make the right calls. Here is what you need to know:
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
A significant percentage of motorcycle accidents in Venice are caused by:
- Distracted driving: Florida, in general, reports an alarming number of accidents related to distracted driving yearly. While the scenery of Venice is outstanding, a driver can be distracted by the coastal views and other elements.
- Drunk driving: The ValuePenguin study found that Venice has a DUI-related death rate of 1.61 per 100,000 residents. This is a notable rate.
- Road hazards: Motorcyclists may be in more danger of road hazards because debris, potholes, and uneven surfaces can easily cause a motorcycle to lose control. Heavy traffic also poses a significant hazard to motorcyclists because of reduced visibility, unpredictable driver behavior, and limited space to pass. Venice experiences heavy traffic due to the substantial influx of tourists and residents, especially during peak beach seasons.
- Unsafe left turns: When a driver makes a left turn without checking if there is an oncoming motorcycle, a motorcyclist may crash into the car. Left-turn collisions mainly occur because a driver is distracted, fails to yield, or misjudges the speed/distance of the motorcycle. Left-turn motorcycle accidents are common in some areas of Venice, particularly at intersections, such as the Jacaranda Boulevard and Venice Avenue roundabout.
Motorcycle Accident Rates in Venice, Florida
According to the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles (FHSMV), the state recorded 9,442 motorcycle crashes in 2024. Sarasota County where Venice is located recorded 210 motorcycle crashes, 13 of which were fatal.
The state has seen an increase in the fatalities caused by motorcycle accidents between 2022 and 2023. The number reduced in 2024, but the reported motorcycle accident statistics are still alarming.
The factors that mainly contribute to these accidents are heavy traffic, road debris, and reckless driving.
Laws and Regulations Governing Motorcycle Accidents in Venice, Florida
When operating a motorcycle in Venice, Florida, you need to be informed about the state’s laws.
For starters, the helmet law. Motorcycle riders under 21 years must wear a helmet that meets federal Motorcycle Vehicle Safety Standard 218. Those above 21 years covered by an insurance policy providing at least $10,000 in medical benefits are exempt from helmet use.
Additionally, like drivers, motorcyclists must yield in certain situations to avoid accidents. For example, at stop signs. It’s also illegal for a motorcyclist to lane split in Florida. You must stay within a single lane.
Statute of Limitations
The statute of limitations for most personal injury cases, including motorcycle accidents, is two years. You have two years from the date of the accident to recover the damages you incur.
Different factors can affect this time limit, including if the accident caused a fatality, if a government entity is a defendant, and if an injury is not discovered immediately after the accident.
For example, if an accident results in death, the case becomes a wrongful death claim, which means the two-year limit begins from the date of the death. Our motorcycle accident law firm will help you understand the specific circumstances of your case.
Fault and Comparative Negligence
Your percentage of fault will be determined when you file a motorcycle accident claim in Venice. Florida has a modified comparative negligence system, which means a plaintiff can’t recover damages if they are more than 50% at fault. If their percentage of fault is below 50%, their compensation will be reduced to the respective percentage.
Insurance Requirements
Florida does not require motorcyclists to have insurance. However, in the event of an accident, they must demonstrate financial responsibility to cover damages, which can be shown through liability insurance, self-insurance, or a financial responsibility certificate.
Having adequate insurance coverage will also benefit you considerably, especially if the at-fault driver is underinsured or uninsured.
Why Choose Our Venice Motorcycle Accident Lawyer?
If you are injured in a motorcycle accident in Venice, Florida, our lawyers will help you build a strong case. We are renowned for:
Expertise in Florida Motorcycle Accident Law
Jack Bernstein, Injury Attorneys, has a team with noteworthy experience and knowledge of relevant laws. We understand Florida laws that apply to motorcyclists and motorcycle accidents. Our attorneys for motorcycle accidents are dedicated to cases like yours. We conduct in-depth investigations and research to offer our clients the best legal representation.
Proven Track Record of Securing Fair Compensation
Our best motorcycle accident lawyers in Venice, Florida, have helped clients recover hundreds of thousands of dollars in compensation. Gathering adequate evidence and presenting solid arguments allow us to maximize compensation for clients.
Personalized Legal Support for Venice Residents
We are a local motorcycle accident law firm in Florida, and have been serving clients for a long time. We are familiar with the roads and traffic in Venice, and can help you obtain more information about your accident.
Moreover, we give clients personalized legal support. Our firm’s lawyer for motorcycle accidents will learn more about your case, and keep you informed through the process.
Book a free consultation to understand your options. If you work with us, you won’t pay any fees unless you win.
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Below are the common injuries reported in motorcycle accidents:
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): If your head hits the pavement or any other object, you may sustain a TBI. Such an injury can also occur when the impact of the accident causes your head to shake violently, shifting the brain within the skull.
- Spinal cord injuries: A direct impact on the spinal cord after a motorcycle accident can result in a fracture, dislocation, or compression of the vertebrae.
- Fractures and broken bones: When a motorcyclist is ejected from their motorcycle and forcefully hits the ground or any other object, they may suffer a fracture.
- Road rash: If you scrape your skin against the road after an accident, the friction experienced can cause your skin to tear away. Road rash can lead to a painful friction burn, or exposure of deep layers of the skin.
- Internal organ damage: Blunt force trauma in a motorcycle accident can cause damage to internal organs, like the liver, spleen, or kidneys. Internal bleeding is a common consequence of such damage.
- Soft tissue injuries: The force impact you experience may cause damage to your muscles, ligaments, and tendons.
- Wrongful death: It’s not uncommon for a motorcycle accident to cause death. This can occur on the spot, or as a result of life-threatening injuries.
Contact Jack Bernstein, Injury Attorneys, for a free consultation today.
The Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit Process
When you are involved in a motorcycle accident, you should:
- Seek medical attention to receive timely treatment, and document your injuries and medical expenses.
- Exchange information with the other involved party.
- Document the accident. Take photos and videos of the accident scene and gather witness information and statements. If you can’t document the scene, ask a witness to help you while you receive medical attention.
- Contact a Venice motorcycle accident lawyer. It’s crucial to contact an attorney as soon as possible to receive the guidance you need.
- Gather evidence. Besides the photos and videos you took at the accident scene and witness statements, you need to gather more evidence, including medical records, police reports, surveillance footage, and expert witnesses. Your lawyer will help you obtain these to strengthen your case.
- File an insurance claim. Your attorney will help you submit a formal request for compensation to the other party’s insurance company. They will help you obtain the needed documents to file your claim within the statute of limitations.
- Negotiate a settlement. When the company responds with an offer, your attorney will negotiate a settlement to help you recover all the damages you suffered.
- File a lawsuit. If the insurer refuses to compensate you fairly or at all, your lawyer will help you file a motorcycle accident lawsuit.
Types of Compensation Available for Motorcycle Accident Victims in Venice, FL
Motorcycle accident victims can recover:
- Medical expenses, including ambulance fees, hospital bills, surgeries, medications, rehabilitation, and travel costs to and from appointments.
- Lost wages, including wages lost during recovery and potential future earnings if your injuries result in long-term disability.
- Pain and suffering, including physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish.
- Property damage, including the repair or replacement of your motorcycle and any other property damaged in the accident, such as your helmet, clothing, or phone.
Contact Our Venice Motorcycle Accident Law Firm Today
If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, it’s vital to receive legal guidance to maximize compensation. Don’t wait. Contact our experienced Venice motorcycle accident lawyer for a free consultation to understand your options.
FAQ
What Is the Average Settlement for a Motorcycle Accident in Venice, Florida?
It can range from a few thousand to millions of dollars, depending on the severity of the injuries, percentage of fault, financial losses, and other circumstances.
How Much Does an Attorney Charge for a Motorcycle Accident in Venice?
Motorcycle accident attorneys use different methods to charge for their services, the common one being a contingency fee. With this option, you pay the lawyer an agreed percentage of the compensation you receive.
How Long Does a Motorcycle Accident Settlement Take?
A motorcycle accident settlement can take anywhere from a few months to years, depending on the complexity of the case. For instance, if a victim sustains a severe injury, such as a TBI, it may take time to understand the extent of the damage to determine an appropriate compensation.
What Roads Are the Most Dangerous in Venice, FL?
The roundabout at Jacaranda Boulevard and Venice Avenue is considered the most dangerous intersection in the city. Its two-lane design and inadequate signage can cause driver confusion, which increases the chances of accidents happening. The roundabout was reconfigured to improve safety, but you should still be extra careful. Note that any road can be dangerous if negligence exists.
Can Multiple Parties Be Held Accountable for Your Motorcycle Accident Injuries?
Yes. You can hold multiple parties liable for the injuries you sustain in a motorcycle accident. For example, a driver and car manufacturer, or a driver and a government entity.
Sources:
Fanning, T. (2019). Report: Sarasota Is the DUI Death Capital of Florida.
Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles. (2024).Helmet Exemption.
About Jack G. Bernstein Esq.
Personal Injury Lawyer
For more than 40 years, personal injury lawyer Jack G. Bernstein has protected the rights of individuals who have been injured in a variety of circumstances. Throughout his career, Bernstein has been a strategist thoroughly dedicated to the idea of protecting the rights of his clients. Mr. Bernstein is a member of the Florida State Bar Association, the Hillsborough Bar Association and the Clearwater Bar Association.
Mr. Bernstein has the experience and expertise to handle a wide range of injury cases. Among the types of plaintiffs Mr. Bernstein represents are individuals involved in car accidents caused by drunk drivers or other exhibiting negligence, medical complications resulting from carelessness caused by a physician or a medical facility, including brain injury, bicycle, motorcycle, moped and truck accidents, admiralty law and cruise ship accidents, accidental drownings, all types of wrongful death lawsuits, along with most injury, catastrophic occurrences and legal malpractice issues.
Our firm handles every type of personal injury and accident case, using negotiation and litigation tactics effectively. We handle cases throughout Tampa, Sarasota, St. Petersburg, and Clearwater, FL. With a staff of approximately 40 people, including six lawyers and 34 support personnel, we have the legal resources to get the justice you deserve and the maximum recovery for your losses. Schedule your free consultation today; we are always here to help.
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