Palatka Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Motorcycle Accidents in Putnam County

Motorcyclists understand the risks of sharing the road with other motorists. Because of this, most motorcyclists take all necessary measures to protect themselves while out on the road. Unfortunately, they cannot always prevent accidents, even when they are extremely careful, follow the law, and ride with caution.

If you or someone you love was involved in a motorcycle accident in Palatka or anywhere in Putnam County, the Law Offices of Ron Sholes, P.A. can help. With over a century of combined legal experience, our attorneys have successfully navigated countless motorcycle accident claims, securing just settlements and jury verdicts on behalf of injured motorcyclists and the loved ones of those wrongfully killed. We understand the unique challenges present in motorcycle accident claims—and we know how to fight for the full, fair compensation you deserve.

Injured in a motorcycle accident? Contact the Law Offices of Ron Sholes, P.A. at (855) 933-3881 to learn how we can help you get back on your feet. Your initial consultation is free!

How to File a Motorcycle Accident Claim in Florida

After a typical car accident, most injured Florida motorists can turn to their personal injury protection (PIP) coverage for compensation, regardless of who was to blame for the crash. However, motorcycle accidents do not fall under the state’s no-fault system. This means that injured motorcyclists must file standard personal injury claims against at-fault parties in order to secure compensation for their damages.

To bring a personal injury claim after a motorcycle accident, you will need to prove the following elements:

• Another motorist or some other person or party owed you a duty of care
• The other party breached the duty of care (typically by acting negligently or unlawfully)
• The other party’s breach of the duty of care was the proximate cause of your injuries
• You suffered measurable damages (economic and/or non-economic)

Notably, you do not have to prove that the other party was fully at fault for the accident. In fact, under Florida’s rule of pure comparative negligence, you do not even have to prove that they were more at fault than you were for the accident. You only need to demonstrate that they were partially to blame for the crash in order to recover compensation.

However, it is important to note that your total recovery will be affected if you are found to be partly at fault. For example, if the jury decides that you were 30% at fault, your total recovery will be reduced by 30% and you will only be able to secure up to 70% of the total amount you would have otherwise received.

Why Are Motorcycle Accident Claims So Complex?

Injured motorcyclists face several unique challenges when it comes to recovering compensation after an accident. First, many people share a common misconception that motorcycle riders are reckless or frequently engage in dangerous driving behaviors, such as speeding or weaving in and out of traffic. Even though this is not true, it takes a skilled attorney to effectively challenge an insurance adjuster, judge, or jury’s prejudice.

Additionally, motorcyclists tend to suffer catastrophic injuries when they are hit by larger, heavier vehicles, like cars, SUVs, and trucks. Such injuries often require extensive, ongoing medical treatment and they may result in temporary or permanent disability. This can leave victims unable to return to work and no longer able to earn a living to support themselves or their families. On top of this, these injuries often lead to immense physical pain and emotional suffering, affecting the victim’s overall quality of life. An attorney with the right experience will be able to properly evaluate the full extent of your damages and present this to the insurance company or, if necessary, a jury.

Choose the Right Legal Team

Getting back on your feet after an accident is hard enough; finding the right attorney shouldn’t be. At the Law Offices of Ron Sholes, P.A., we have extensive experience representing injured motorcyclists and their loved ones, as well as a proven track record of success. We know what it takes to effectively advocate for victims, and we are ready to do everything in our power to fight for the maximum compensation you are owed.

Our Palatka motorcycle accident lawyers provide compassionate, personalized legal representation tailored to you. We are ready to discuss your case and inform you of your legal rights and options during a free, no-obligation consultation with an attorney. In most cases, you only have four years from the date of the accident to file your claim, so don’t wait until it’s too late.

Contact our office online or by phone at (855) 933-3881 today to get started with your complimentary consultation and case evaluation.