Tampa Hit & Run Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
When a car strikes a motorcycle, the driver may not even realize there has been a collision. Or if they do, they decide not to stop and render aid to the motorcyclist. Such actions are not just callous–they are a crime under Florida law.
As for the injured motorcyclist, they have the right to take civil action against a motorist who simply flees the scene of a crash. Our experienced Tampa hit and run motorcycle accident lawyer can assist you in this area. Anderson & Anderson can advise you of your rights under the law and represent you in seeking full and complete compensation for your injuries.
The Criminal and Civil Consequences of Fleeing the Scene of a Motorcycle Accident in Florida
Every motorcyclist knows they are at-risk when riding on public streets. A motorcycle simply offers no protection from a collision with the typical passenger car or truck. So even a motorcyclist who wears a helmet and safety pads and observes all applicable traffic safety laws is still at the mercy of every other driver on the road acting responsibly.
In the event of a motorcycle accident, Florida law states the other drivers involved must “immediately” stop their vehicles at the scene–or as close to the scene as is safe to do so–and “render aid” to the motorcyclist if they appear to be injured. The parties must also exchange contact and insurance information and wait for the local police to arrive and take down an official accident report.
A driver who ignores these requirements and flees the scene can be charged with a second-degree felony under Florida law if the motorcyclist sustained a “serious bodily injury.” This can mean serious prison time and a multi-year suspension of the driver’s license.
In terms of personal injury law, an injured motorcyclist can separately seek compensation for their medical bills, lost income, and other damages arising from the hit and run accident. Unlike most car accidents covered by Florida’s personal injury protection (PIP) laws, an injured motorcyclist does not generally have to seek coverage from their own insurer first before pursuing such a claim. Additionally, if the injured motorcyclist has uninsured motorist coverage (UM) coverage, their insurer may be responsible for damages following a hit and run accident where the responsible driver is never identified.
Know What to Do Following a Motorcycle Hit and Run in Florida
The moments following a motorcycle accident are often painful and traumatic. Even when the motorcyclist is not seriously injured they are likely dazed and confused and unsure on what steps to take next. If you find yourself in this situation, here are a few key things to remember:
- Always call 911 and wait for the police or other first responders to arrive at the scene.
- If you can, try and grab a picture of the fleeing vehicle or recall as much as you can about the make, model, and color of the vehicle when speaking to the police.
- Notify your own insurance company as soon as possible to preserve your right to seek coverage when applicable.
The final thing to remember is contact a qualified Tampa hit and run motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible. The Florida personal injury lawyers at Anderson & Anderson will be happy to review your case and advise you of your options for seeking compensation. Call us today at 813-251-0072 or contact us online to schedule an initial consultation.
