Jacksonville Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

If you or a loved one was involved in a motorcycle accident in Jacksonville, Steinger, Greene & Feiner is here to help you seek justice and compensation for the damage someone else caused. Our experienced motorcycle accident lawyers in Jacksonville have what it takes to win your case.

Why Jacksonville Is a Hub for Motorcyclists

Florida is a popular state among motorcycle enthusiasts. In fact, the Sunshine State has the second-highest number of registered motorcycles in the country, only trailing California. Maybe it has something to do with the great weather, scenic views, and open roads.

With their popularity, though, comes a higher risk of accidents and injuries. According to Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles, the number of motorcycle crashes that occur annually in Duval County has been on the rise in recent years. Here are some recent statistics of motorcycle crashes in the Jacksonville area.

	2020	2021	2022
Total Crashes	380	448	484
Fatalities	21	41	32

The Risks of Motorcycle Accidents in Jacksonville

Due to the open-air design of motorcycles, those who ride them have limited protection against surrounding safety threats. This makes motorcyclists extremely vulnerable to accidents and injuries when sharing the road with standard motor vehicles and large trucks. Some of the most common injuries that result from motorcycle accidents include:

• Traumatic brain injuries
• Spinal cord injuries
• Paralysis
• Broken bones
• Amputations
• Lacerations
• Road rash
• Wrongful death

When it comes to why motorcycle accidents occur, the common causes are similar to those of car accidents.

• Speeding
• Distracted driving
• Other vehicles fail to see motorcycles
• Unsafe lane changes
• Lane splitting
• Drunk driving
• Dangerous left turns
• Illegal u-turns
• Following too closely
• Aggressive driving or road rage
• Roadway obstructions
• Poorly designed intersections or merge areas
• Negligently maintained vehicles
• Mechanical failures

What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident

Not sure what to do after getting in a motorcycle accident? Follow the steps outlined below.

1. Contact Emergency Medical Services

Motorcycle accident victims are likely to suffer injuries given their vulnerability compared to other motorists. Whether you suffer minor or major injuries, it’s important to seek emergency medical care. Call 9-1-1, and first responders will be on the scene quickly to provide the medical care you need.

2. Call the Police

Once your injuries are attended to, notify the police of the accident. If officers respond, they will ensure the safety of everyone involved, gather witness statements, and complete an official police report. Be sure to ask for a copy of the police report for future reference.

If police officers don’t arrive at the scene, you will need to gather witness statements yourself and file an accident report through the local DMV. Just like you would do with an official police report, obtain a copy of the accident report for later use.

3. Gather Information

If you choose to file a claim, your attorney and insurance provider will need key information to determine fault and calculate the damages. Here’s the information you should gather at the crash scene:

• Clear photos and videos from all angles
• Information from other motorists involved (i.e. name, phone number, car make and model, insurance company name, policy type, policy number)
• Witness statements (if police officers don’t respond)

4. Seek Primary or Urgent Medical Care

Even if you don’t need emergency medical care, you should still seek primary or urgent care. Some accident victims sustain minor or internal injuries that don’t appear until days or even weeks after the accident. By that point, it’s too late to seek medical care that can be compensated by taking legal action. Any insurance company will claim that the delay in seeking medical care is proof that the accident isn’t what caused the injuries in the first place.

5. Contact a Personal Injury Attorney

Reach out to a Jacksonville motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible after your motorcycle accident. The sooner you do, the sooner you can secure compensation to pay for your injuries and property damage. Steinger, Greene & Feiner is ready to take on your motorcycle accident case and fight for your rights.

6. Notify Your Insurance Company

One step you don’t want to miss is notifying your insurance provider about the accident. You can’t file a claim without your insurance company first knowing about the accident. Some insurers even put a time limit on the notification period, requiring policyholders to report an accident within 24 to 48 hours. All that to say, notify your insurer sooner rather than later.

Compensation for Motorcycle Accident Victims in Jacksonville

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident in Jacksonville, or if you’ve lost a loved one due to another’s negligence, you have the right to seek compensation. The goal of financial recovery is not only to address the immediate costs of the accident but also to support victims and their families through the physical, emotional, and financial challenges they face. Compensation typically includes two primary categories of damages:

Economic Damages

Economic damages compensate for measurable financial losses directly caused by the accident. These may include:

• Medical Expenses: Past and future costs for emergency care, hospital stays, surgeries, rehabilitation, medications, and other medical needs.
• Lost Wages: Income lost during recovery, as well as diminished earning capacity if your injuries prevent you from returning to work at full capacity.
• Property Damage: Repair or replacement costs for your motorcycle and any personal property damaged in the accident.
• Long-Term Care: Expenses for specialized equipment, home modifications, or ongoing care if your injuries result in permanent disability. These damages rely on detailed documentation, including medical bills, pay stubs, repair estimates, and expert testimony, to accurately calculate their value.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages focus on the intangible losses that can’t be easily measured in monetary terms. These may include:

• Pain and Suffering: Physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident and injuries.
• Loss of Enjoyment of Life: The diminished ability to engage in activities and hobbies you once enjoyed.
• Disfigurement and Disability: Compensation for permanent physical changes or loss of function.
• Loss of Companionship: Spouses and close family members may seek damages for the loss of emotional and relational support caused by the accident. Non-economic damages often use a multiplier of economic losses to determine their value, reflecting the severity and long-term impact of the injuries.

When a motorcycle accident results in a fatality, surviving family members may file a wrongful death claim to seek justice and financial support. These claims can include:

• Funeral and Burial Expenses: Reimbursement for end-of-life costs.
• Loss of Income: Compensation for the financial support the deceased would have provided to their family.
• Loss of Parental Guidance or Spousal Support: Damages for the emotional and practical void left by the loved one’s passing. Florida law allows specific relatives, such as spouses, children, and dependent parents, to pursue these claims, with recoverable damages tailored to the relationship between the deceased and the claimant.

Injury and wrongful death claims often hinge on the quality of evidence presented. If the at-fault party’s insurance coverage is inadequate, discuss additional recovery options with your attorney, such as uninsured/underinsured motorist policies.
Compensation is more than a financial remedy—it’s a path to accountability and healing. Whether seeking recovery for yourself or justice for a loved one, pursuing a well-supported injury claim ensures the responsible party is held accountable and that you or your family have the resources needed to move forward.

Motorcycle Driving and Accident Regulations in Jacksonville

Motorcycle accidents in Jacksonville often involve unique legal and safety considerations due to the vulnerabilities of motorcyclists on the road. Florida law establishes clear guidelines to protect riders and ensure accountability when accidents occur. Here’s what you should know about the regulations and laws that could impact your claim.

Helmet Laws in Florida

In Florida, motorcyclists under the age of 21 must wear a DOT-compliant helmet at all times. If a motorcyclist under the age of 21 gets in an accident while not wearing a helmet, they could be held liable and even barred from seeking compensation for their injuries.

However, there are some exceptions to the rule. A motorcyclist who isn’t wearing a helmet when they get in an accident can seek compensation if they:

• Are over 21 years of age and have minimum medical liability coverage of $10,000
• Are in an enclosed cab
• Are 16 years of age or older and the motorcycle can’t exceed two brake horsepower or go more than 30 miles per hour.

While the law permits this choice, the decision not to wear a helmet can affect your legal claim if you’re injured in an accident. If evidence shows that wearing a helmet could have reduced the severity of your injuries, the court or an insurance company may reduce your compensation based on Florida’s modified comparative negligence principle.

Insurance Requirements for Motorcyclists

Unlike drivers of standard motor vehicles, Florida does not require motorcyclists to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) insurance. However, riders are encouraged to purchase uninsured/underinsured motorist (UM/UIM) coverage, given the high risk of accidents involving uninsured drivers. UM/UIM coverage can provide critical financial protection if the at-fault party lacks sufficient insurance to cover your medical expenses and property damage. For riders over 21 who choose not to wear a helmet, maintaining at least $10,000 in medical liability coverage is mandatory to comply with state law.

Modified Comparative Negligence

Florida’s modified comparative negligence system, implemented in 2023, prevents plaintiffs from recovering compensation if they are more than 50% at fault for an accident. If you’re partially responsible, your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. For instance, if the court determines you are 30% liable, your total recovery will decrease by that amount. This highlights the importance of building a strong case with clear evidence, such as police reports, photographs, and witness testimony.

Statute of Limitations

Time is critical when pursuing a motorcycle accident claim in Florida. Under the law updated in March 2023, you have two years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Failing to meet this deadline could result in losing your right to seek compensation, even if the other party’s negligence is evident.

By staying informed about these regulations and taking the necessary precautions, motorcyclists in Jacksonville can protect themselves and navigate the legal system effectively if an accident occurs.

Proving Negligence in Motorcycle Accident Cases

To hold someone legally accountable for a motorcycle accident, you must demonstrate that their actions—or failure to act—constituted negligence. The law requires you to satisfy four specific elements to establish negligence which are the next:

1. Duty of Care
   Every driver on the road has a legal obligation to act in a way that ensures the safety of others. This includes obeying traffic laws, staying alert, and avoiding reckless behavior. For motorcyclists, this duty extends to recognizing their increased vulnerability on the road and taking extra precautions to avoid harm.
2. Breach of Duty
   A breach occurs when the at-fault driver fails to meet this standard of care. Common examples include speeding, running red lights, texting while driving, or failing to check blind spots before changing lanes. These actions deviate from the behavior expected of a reasonably cautious driver and put others at risk.
3. Causation
   It’s not enough to show that the other motorcycle rider acted irresponsibly—you must also prove that their breach of duty directly caused your injuries. For instance, if a driver runs a stop sign and collides with your motorcycle, resulting in a broken leg, there is a clear link between their action and your harm. This connection is critical in establishing liability.
4. Damages
   Finally, you must demonstrate that the accident caused identifiable harm. Damages can include physical injuries, such as broken bones or spinal cord trauma, as well as emotional distress, mental anguish, or financial losses like medical bills and lost wages. Documenting these damages through medical records, receipts, and expert evaluations strengthens your case.

At Steinger, Greene & Feiner, we work diligently to gather the evidence needed to prove each element of negligence. By meticulously building your case, we ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve for your injuries and losses.

Exploring Your Legal Options After a Motorcycle Crash

After an accident, you have two primary options for pursuing compensation: negotiating a settlement or filing a lawsuit. Each path has its own advantages, and the best choice depends on the specifics of your case.

Settlement Negotiations

Most motorbike accident claims are resolved through settlements, where the at-fault driver’s insurance company agrees to pay compensation. Settlements often allow you to recover damages without the time and expense of a trial. However, insurance companies may initially offer less than what you deserve. Our attorneys negotiate aggressively to ensure the settlement reflects the full extent of your injuries, property damage, and other losses.

Filing a Lawsuit

If the at-fault party’s insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, filing a lawsuit may be necessary. By taking the case to court, you can present your evidence to a judge or jury who will determine the appropriate compensation. While this route can involve court appearances and extended timelines, it may be the best option if the other party contests liability or the damages amount.

Whether through settlement negotiations or litigation, our legal team will guide you every step of the way to secure the compensation you need to move forward. Let’s look into the details of how we can help.

How a Jacksonville Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Help

Navigating the aftermath of a motorcycle crash can feel overwhelming, especially when injuries, financial stress, and legal complexities come into play. As experienced motorcycle accident attorneys, we are here to take that burden off your shoulders and fight for the compensation you deserve.

Our role is to be your advocate at every stage of the process, ensuring your rights are protected and your case is handled with precision and care. Here’s how we help:

• Personalized Guidance: From the moment you contact us, we’ll work closely with you to explain your legal options, answer your questions, and develop a strategy tailored to your case.
• Case Investigation: Our Jacksonville personal injury lawyer will dig deep into the details of your accident, collecting critical evidence such as police reports, medical records, surveillance footage, and accident scene photos.
• Witness Interviews: Testimony from witnesses can make or break a case. We’ll track down and interview witnesses to strengthen your claim.
• Evidence Collection: Whether it’s skid marks on the road, vehicle damage, or expert accident reconstructions, we gather the proof needed to demonstrate liability and the extent of your damages.
• Handling Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. We’ll handle all communications and negotiations to ensure you aren’t pressured into accepting a lowball offer.
• Paperwork and Deadlines: Legal claims involve mountains of paperwork and strict deadlines. We’ll manage every detail to keep your case on track and error-free.
• Settlement Negotiations: Most cases are resolved through settlements. We’ll use our experience and negotiation skills to secure the maximum compensation possible.
• Trial Representation: If negotiations fail or the at-fault party denies responsibility, we’ll take your case to court and fight for your rights in front of a judge and jury.

Motorcycle accident cases often involve severe injuries, complex liability issues, and significant financial stakes. Trying to handle these challenges alone can lead to missed opportunities for fair compensation. With a skilled attorney by your side, you can focus on healing while we take care of the legal complexities.

We understand the unique challenges that motorcycle accident victims face, and we’re dedicated to pursuing justice on your behalf. Let us take the pressure off, fight for your rights, and secure the compensation you need to move forward.

Why Choose Us as Your Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Jacksonville

Here’s why Steinger, Greene & Feiner is the name Jacksonville residents trust to handle their motor vehicle accident cases.

Affordable Services

Every motorcycle accident victim should have access to the same top-notch legal services. That’s why we won’t bill you until after we’ve won your case.

Maximum Compensation

We will hold the at-fault party responsible for their actions. You can count on us to seek maximum financial compensation on your behalf.

Convenient Communication

Visiting us in person isn’t always convenient. That’s why we’re available by call, text, and online chat. We can even handle your entire case online.

24/7 Support

If a question or concern arises outside of normal business hours, we’ve got you covered. You can contact us 24/7 for help with your case.

Contact a Jacksonville Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today

Are you ready to move forward with your motorcycle accident case? Contact Steinger, Greene & Feiner for a free consultation or visit us at our office at the address: 4651 Salisbury Rd #400, Jacksonville. One of our skilled motorbike accident attorneys will sit down with you in person or speak with you over the phone to discuss the details of your case. Our law firm is ready to take on your motorcycle accident case.