Jacksonville Broadside Motorcycle Crash Lawyers
Broadside Motorcycle Accident
A broadside accident, also known as a T-bone, or side impact collision, occurs where one side of the vehicle or motorcycle is impacted by the front or rear of another vehicle or fixed object, forming a "T."
These accidents often happen at intersections or in a parking lot, and the injuries from a broadside accident can be severe depending on the speed that each vehicle was traveling, the weight of the vehicles, the safety measures present, and the construction of both vehicles.
If a vehicle hits another, there is generally a crumple zone of the striking vehicle that will absorb some of the energy of the crash, especially when it is hitting another substantial vehicle. Because of the size disparity between a motorcycle and motorist, when the striking vehicle hits a motorcycle, there is less pushback and the majority of the injury will occur to the motorcycle rider.
With motorcycles, side impacts can be particularly hazardous, given that riders don't even have the benefit of doors to protect them. While cars have crumple zones, air bags, seat belts, and side curtains, the motorcyclist has nothing but his body and his protective clothing, which may or may not include a helmet.
Following a severe enough collision, the struck vehicle may spin, or roll over, potentially putting it and the rider in the path of oncoming vehicles.
Broadsides frequently result from a failure to yield the right of way at an intersection. The motorist may have run a red light, not seen the motorcycle or been distracted in the vicinity of a traffic signal. As with any crash, the more speed, the more likely serious injury and death can occur.
Common injuries that result from side impact collisions include a pelvis fracture and hip dislocation, shoulder injuries, brain trauma, amputation, spinal cord injuries, burns and wrongful death.
According to a 2005 study from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), Florida leads the nation in T-bone accidents.
Not surprisingly, our state has seen a steady increase in the number of motorcycle fatalities over the last eight years with an exception of 2008 and now 2009. Between 2000 and 2008, 3,716 motorcyclists and their passengers were killed in traffic crashes.
By 2008, the annual death rate of 532 dropped to 402 in 2009. The Florida Rider Training Program, a basic course for first time motorcyclists, is credited with improving safety. Conversely, when Florida rescinded its motorcycle helmet law in 2002, motorcycle fatalities increased.
A Florida broadside motorcycle accident attorney can help you get your life back together after a T-bone accident. An investigation must determine whether the striking car disregarded the traffic signals in a way that led to the severe injuries. Compensation for your lost wages and medical costs will not make you whole, but it will help you heal. Call Farah & Farah for a comprehensive consultation on your case.
Please visit our Jacksonville Florida Motorcycle Accident Website for more info.
Our personal promise: Accident victims have specific rights, but by law you have a limited time to take action. When you use our team at Farah & Farah, there are NO up-front charges.
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Our fee is a percentage of the money awarded payable only when your case is successfully concluded. No matter how many times you call and how long we talk, there is NO CHARGE or cost until your case settles. Do not sign any releases, agreements or give any statements until you have spoken with us about your legal rights. When it comes to getting you more, we won't settle for less!
We personally promise that you will be treated with the respect and dignity you deserve. We promise to keep you up to date and informed as to developments in your case. Your case is important to us, regardless of size.
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