Author: rhinoadmin

DISTRACTED DRIVING A DEADLY MIX

To begin with, most people associate distracted driving with using a cell phone. While using a cell phone while driving is common. Especially, texting while driving. However, using a cell phone is not the only form of distracted driving.

In fact, the NHTSA says distracted driving is anything that takes your attention away from driving. For this reason, it could include many activities. So, here is a list of other activities considered distracted driving.

• Talking on cell phone
• Texting
• Eating and/or drinking
• Using a GPS
• Updating social media sites or apps
• Checking email
• Using a phone’s camera or video app
• Reading
• Grooming
• Rubbernecking
• Attending to children or pets
• Adjusting the radio or music
• Talking to other passengers

Manual Distractions While Driving

First, manual distractions while driving involve taking one or both hands off the steering wheel. And, almost every distracted driver will take at least one hand off the wheel. But this makes it difficult to properly steer. And, nearly impossible to make an emergency maneuver. Furthermore, this dangerous distraction could cause you to veer off the road or into oncoming traffic.

Visual Distractions

Actually, visual distractions are the most common with drivers. To tell the truth, this makes sense. Because taking your eyes off the road is an action that takes your attention away from driving. For example, a visual impairment could include these actions texting, looking at billboards, grooming, and more.

With this in mind, these distractions hinder a driver’s ability to consistently evaluate their surroundings. Which is important for every driver’s safety. As well as, for the safety of other vehicles on the road. Moreover, the CDC states a person texting will take their eyes off the road for an average of 5 seconds. Which at 55 miles per hour the person could travel the length of a football field.

Cognitive Distractions

Finally, we have cognitive distractions. Unfortunately, these are less straightforward than the other types. Because these distractions cause the driver’s mind to wander. Such as, when a driver talks to another person, daydreaming and listening to the radio.

Furthermore, cognitive distractions are deceiving. Considering, the driver has a full view of the road. Although, the driver loses concentration on the road and has a higher chance of an accident. Due to the fact, they are not able to think fast and react to potential hazards.

Distracted Driving Crashes

Incidentally, a car accident caused by distracted driving could have a tragic ending for the people involved. In fact, NHTSA said in 2017, distracted driving claimed 3,166 lives. However, these accidents are not limited to only car accidents. For one thing, our Tampa auto accident attorneys see a variety of these cases including:

• Motorcycle Accidents – Granted, it is a bad idea to take your eyes off the road and hands off the handlebars while riding a motorcycle. Consequently, riders could have a distracted driver hit them and cause serious injuries or death.
• Truck Accidents – For one thing, with many truck drivers working long hours driving their minds can wander. As well as, most drivers use navigation systems like Waze, Google Maps, and Garmin which can also distract them from the road.
• Pedestrian Accidents – While, a distracted driver could hit a pedestrian in a crosswalk. Additionally, they could hit a person exiting a car. Or, swerve off the road and strike a person on the sidewalk.
• Drunk or Impaired Drivers – Actually, when you add drugs or alcohol to these distractive action’s things get extremely dangerous. Because impaired drivers already have slower reactions to things happening around them.
• Bicycle Accidents – Similarly, bicyclists face the same risk of injury or death as a pedestrian. Because they don’t have the same protection an automobile provides. In addition, cyclists have all the for distractive driving as a motorist.
• Uber or Lyft Driver and Passenger Accidents – Likewise, it goes for Uber and Lyft drivers. Considering, they drive long hours like truck drivers they face the same risks from navigation systems and daydreaming.

Preventing Distracted Driving

Finally, we should use education to prevent distracted driving. So, new drivers learn and current drives learn the activities that cause distracted driving. Because, many of these activities consist of more than one distracting activity, like texting and adjusting the radio. So, here are the top ways for everyone to avoid distractions on the road.

• Turn your cell phone off, put it on “do not disturb”, or airplane mode.
• Consume food and drinks before driving.
• Program your GPS before pulling out of the driveway or pull over to a safe place to park and program.

CONTACT A TAMPA AUTO ACCIDENT ATTORNEY

In short, after a car accident, you may not know your rights. Above all, don’t struggle through the process alone. Actually, our personal injury team is here to help you with any legal needs you might have regarding your accident.

Lastly, let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. So, get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.329.3491.

DON’T HANDLE CAR ACCIDENTS ALONE

To start with, you do not need to hire an attorney after a car accident that was not your fault. However, if the accident damages your car and you receive injuries it is a good idea. Since an auto accident attorney can help you recover damages and avoid liability for the accident.

Additionally, an auto accident attorney can use their knowledge of relevant laws to help protect your rights. As well as, handling all the paperwork and filing deadlines. Thus, allowing you to focus on recovering and getting your life back to normal.

WHY Speak to a car accident attorney

First, when you hire a lawyer, they will gather the evidence needed to support your claim. For example, they will get the police reports, statements from witnesses, and medical records. As well as, any information on your lost wages. Then, they will use this information to calculate the amount of compensation you deserve.

More importantly, an attorney will file a lawsuit on your behalf. Not to mention, they will use their knowledge to anticipate possible defenses. As a matter of fact, they will most likely be familiar with the opposing counsel’s strengths and weaknesses.

Furthermore, you should not talk to or negotiate with the insurance company without an attorney. In all honesty, insurance companies are for profit. And, they do not make money by paying damages. So, they will try to find a way to reduce or eliminate your compensation. An auto accident attorney can keep you from falling for their tricks.

A Lawyer HELPS calculate damages

Secondly, the average person doesn’t have the experience with calculating eligible compensation from an accident. But, an accident attorney does. In fact, they will review all the circumstances of the accident. Then, they will use that information to file for numerous damages. For example:

• Future Medical Expenses – A lawyer will anticipate future expenses you will incur from your injuries.
• Lost Wages – Money you did not make due to missing work while recovering from your injury.
• Reduced Earning Capacity – Your injuries limit your ability to work. Either on a short-term or long-term basis.
• Pain and Suffering – Injuries that affect your quality of life and your very essence.
• Punitive Damages – You could receive these if you can prove the at-fault driver was malicious or reckless.

filing lawsuit and negotIating settlement

Incidentally, after an accident, the at-fault driver is responsible for damages. But, their insurance will only pay up to the limits of the policy. Thus, you would need to pursue the driver individually for compensation.

Actually, this is why you need an attorney helping you with your case. Specifically, they will calculate your damages from the accident. Then your attorney pursues the at-fault person outside of court trying to negotiate a settlement before filing a lawsuit.

CONTACT A TAMPA CAR ACCIDENT ATTORNEY

In short, after a car accident, you may not know your rights. Above all, don’t struggle through the process alone. Actually, our personal injury team is here to help you with any legal needs you might have regarding your accident.

Lastly, let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. So, get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.329.3491.

ACCIDENT VICTIMS MAKE MISTAKES

To begin with, dealing with the aftermath of an automobile accident is stressful. Considering, the cost of treatments, missing work, and long doctor appointments. Unfortunately, these accident victims make mistakes during treatments and doctors’ visits that hurt their case.

In fact, many times an innocent mistake has a huge impact on the personal injury case. Particularly, these mistakes can make so you are unable to prove your case. So, you end up not receiving fair compensation for your injuries. With this in mind, here are some common mistakes to avoid making during treatments.

Victim Waits To Get Medical Attention

First, as an auto accident victim in Florida, you have the responsibility of proving you suffered injuries. Regardless, if you think you the pain will go away. In all honesty, this is a bad idea. Due to the fact, both insurance companies and juries see the waiting for treatment as not severe enough for compensation.

Though, we understand the hope for minor injuries and avoiding a doctor. But, you should have all accident injuries checked. Thus, don’t ignore the pain no matter the severity. So, go to the hospital or see a doctor that specializes in auto injuries as soon as possible.

Accident Victim Misses Appointments

Next, missing or being late to appointments can ruin your case. Since the insurance company and jury will get to review your medical records. Thus, when you miss or show up late for an appointment the doctor notates this in your file. Unfortunately, insurance companies and juries view you as not injured or not committed to getting better.

By the same token, no showing or showing up late to appoints will aggravate the doctor. Besides, this is disrespectful. And, an angry doctor does not make a good witness. While understand missing some appointments. In the event that, you will miss or be late to an appointment call the doctor immediately to let them know or reschedule. Also, make sure the doctor’s office documents it in your file.

Concealing Your Past Medical History

Before treatment, your doctor will ask about your past medical history. More importantly, you need to answer all questions honestly. Because your doctor will use your medical history when diagnosing and treating you. In addition, incomplete information will affect the treatment you receive.

Not to mention, it will only hurt your case. In fact, when doctors don’t have all the information the insurance company and the jury will reject their medical opinion. Furthermore, the insurance company will review your medical history. So, they can get an idea of your health before the accident. Thus, trying to conceal anything will only work against you.

Telling Your Doctor About the Case

Namely, your doctor needs to concentrate on treating your injuries. Hence, they will need to know about the accident and where you hurt. But, your doctor does not need to know you filed a lawsuit. Overall, making the mistake of sharing this information is unnecessary and will hurt your case.

Admittedly, most doctors want to avoid involvement in a lawsuit. Thus, talking about your case with your doctor could cause them to not want to treat you. As well as, they might not reach important conclusions about your injuries. In addition, your doctor will likely note the conversation in your file. And, the insurance company will try to use it to shine a bad light on you.

Not Completing Your Treatment

Even though, your pain is subsiding don’t end your treatment before healing completely. So, ending your treatment before medical release will hurt your case. Because, when you stop treatment early the insurance company and jury assume the treatment healed you.

By the same token, large gaps in treatment suggest the same thing. As well as, it gives the impression you healed and suffered a new injury. However, it is understandable to miss a treatment. Still, it’s better to avoid any gaps in treatment. Although, if you can’t avoid missing a session, contact the doctor and document the reason.

As I have said, with an injury it is always best to seek medical care until completely healed. Or, your doctor says there is nothing more they can do to help your injury.

Failing to Cooperate with Depression or Anxiety Treatments

Whereas, the accident causes pain by injuring your body. Subsequently, those injuries can lead to anxiety or depression. Unfortunately, this is all too common in accident victims. Yet, you can’t overcome these psychological conditions without treatment.

Thus, it is important to report these symptoms to your doctor. Otherwise, your doctor can’t prescribe treatment and it won’t appear in your file. Additionally, making the mistake of not seeking treatment for your injury-related depression or anxiety the insurance company and jury will not compensate for it.

Accident Victims Discounting Pain

After, starting treatments many people feel like whiners or complainers if they talk about their pain during each visit. So, some will try to tough it out and not let the doctor know about the pain. However, failing to have your pain documented is a huge mistake. Because the doctor needs to know this information to properly treat your injuries.

As a matter of fact, one of the best ways to document your pain is to keep a daily journal. Then, your doctor could use it to help document your chart with your day-to-day pain. Yet, if you don’t report your pain or limitations, they will not make it into your file. As a result, the insurance company and jury will not believe you are in pain. Nor, will the court accept your testimony about your pain.

Failure to Keep Medical File

Finally, besides documenting your pain from the accident, you should keep your own medical file. In fact, it is important to track every medical provider that treats your injury. Including, the tracking of work restrictions, doctors’ orders, and treatment referrals. All in all, tracking this information is helpful to your case and attorney. So, not maintaining a file is a huge oversight on your part.

CONTACT A TAMPA AUTO ACCIDENT ATTORNEY

In short, after a car accident, you may not know your rights. Above all, don’t struggle through the process alone. Actually, our personal injury team is here to help you with any legal needs you might have regarding your accident.

Lastly, let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. So, get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.329.3491.

SPRING CYCLING AVOID INJURIES

To begin with, Florida pretty much has good cycling weather year-round. However, the temperatures have risen. So, cyclists from all over North America are descending on Florida streets. Unfortunately, that means a rise in bike-car and bike-truck accidents. Typically, the cyclists are on the losing end.

Secondly, cyclists share the same rights and responsibilities as other motorists on the road. But, negligent motorists or careless drivers can cause serious injury to a cyclist. Granted, bicyclists can receive damages for medical bills, lost income and, property damage. As well as, for pain and suffering. Yet, if you are partially responsible the amount received in damages gets reduced.

Causes of Bike-Car Accidents

Notably, in 2019 the FLHSMV reported 6,628 bike-car accidents. In addition, 142 of these cycling crashes resulted in a fatality. Considering, how susceptible cyclists are to injury it is important to know some of the main causes of bike-car accidents. So, here are some dangers cyclists face.

• Failure to yield when entering the road – When entering a roadway, the law requires all motorists to yield to on-coming traffic. In fact, that includes yielding to bicyclists.
• Passing without safe distance – All motorists must leave 3 feet around a cyclist when passing. It’s the law.
• Right turn crashes – These collisions occur when a motorist fails to use their turn signal, or they make a sudden turn crossing the cyclists’ path.
• Road Hazards – Things like road debris, potholes, and cracks in the pavement pose a danger to bicyclists. Because they can cause a cyclist to lose control of the bike.

Avoid Injuries Cycling Safety

In all honesty, cyclists often suffer catastrophic injuries when involved in a collision with a car or truck. Therefore, to avoid a crash or injury cyclists can take certain precautions. So, here are some safety tips for cyclists to follow:

• Always wear a properly fitted helmet and securely fasten the strap.
• Stay visible. Wear bright colors when riding or wear something that reflects light (reflective shoes, reflective tape, etc.)
• Pay attention. Do not wear headphones so that you can hear the traffic and pedestrians around you. Never text and ride.
• Ride in the same direction as traffic and stay as far to the right as possible. Use bike lanes whenever you can.
• Obey all traffic laws, including signs, signals, and lane markings, when riding on the roadway. If crossing a roadway upon or along a crosswalk, abide by pedestrian crossing guidelines.
• If riding between the hours of sunset and sunrise, Florida Law requires the use of a headlight lamp which exhibits a white light visible for 500 feet. Also, it requires the rear of the bike equipped with a taillight lamp and reflector visible for 600 feet.

Motorists Safety Reminders

Although, bicycle safety is important for both the cyclist and motorist. FLHSMV (Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles) states motorists must pay special attention when driving around cyclists. So, here are some safety tips for motorists to follow:

• Drivers MUST give bicyclists a minimum of three feet of clearance when driving alongside or passing them. It’s the law.
• When turning, yield to any bicyclist in the bike lane and make your turn behind the cyclist.
• Avoid using high beam headlights when you see a bicyclist approaching.
• Before opening a car door, check for bicyclists who may be approaching from behind.

Liability in A Bike-Car Accident

Regarding, injuries from a bike-car or bike-truck accident, you can sue the responsible party for damages. Not to mention, as a victim Florida states you have 4 years from the date of the accident to file the claim. More importantly, you can recover damages from the at-fault party if you can prove liability.

At any rate, you as a cyclist have the same legal rights and duties as motorists in Florida. Yet, many drivers do not use care when sharing the road. For example, a distracted driver may not see you cycling and could collide with you.

Then, you can assert your personal injury claim under negligence. Due to the fact, they failed to use reasonable care. Thus, holding the at-fault party liable for injuries caused by the accident.

Damages and Compensation in a Cycling Accident

Furthermore, victims of a bike accident can recover damages. As a matter of fact, you can receive compensation for current medical bills and future medical bills. As well as, for loss of income, and property damage. Also, family members of a person that dies from the accident can recover damages through a wrongful death claim.

So, if you are in a bike-car or bike-truck accident, you could receive compensation. Hence, our Tampa auto accident lawyers will review your case. Then, we will work to protect your legal rights so you can get the outcome you deserve.

CONTACT A TAMPA BIKE-AUTO ACCIDENT ATTORNEY

In short, after a bike-car accident, you may not know your rights. Above all, don’t struggle through the process alone. Actually, our personal injury team is here to help you with any legal needs you might have regarding your accident.

Lastly, let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. So, get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.329.3491.

PULLED OVER KNOW YOUR RIGHTS

To begin with, most people get pulled over or encounter law enforcement at some point. Though, these encounters can make most law-abiding drivers nervous and stressed. In fact, these traffic stops are stressful for the officer as well. Still, law enforcement is required to treat everyone equally. Yet, knowing your rights when pulled over can help the unpleasantness of the situation.

Your Rights When Pulled Over

First, is it important to know your rights when pulled over or stopped by law enforcement. Because knowing your rights will allow you to exercise your rights properly for the situation. Unfortunately, some people either misinformed or don’t know. Thus, can worsen the situation. So, according to the ACLU, your right includes:

• Remain Silent – You have the right to remain silent. But you must inform the officer when exercising this right.
• No Consent to Search – While an officer may ask to search, you have the right to refuse. Thus, if you do not consent you should let them know in a calm and clear manner. However, remember they can search without consent if they probable cause.
• Right to Leave – Unless the officer places you under arrest, you can leave. Also, Florida has a temporary detention period, but it must happen on or around the area of the initial stop.
• Legal Representation – Additionally, you have the right to speak to an attorney. As a matter of fact, you should request an attorney before giving a statement.

What to Do When Pulled Over

Second, an officer could pull you over for multiple reasons. Nonetheless, if a law enforcement officer pulls you over you need to cooperate. In all honesty, if you remain calm and follow these tips you could help lessen the anxiety of the situation.

• Slow down and pull over to a safe location off the road.
• Turn your car off and turn on your interior light if it is between dusk and dawn.
• Put your hands on the steering wheel to keep them where the officer can see them.
• Remain in your car, unless the officer requests it.
• If you have a weapon in the car inform the officer of its location.
• Comply with request for a license, registration, and proof of insurance. And tell the officer before reaching for documents that are not visible.
• Answer the officer’s questions honestly and politely. And, it is ok to ask for clarification if you do not understand something.
• If they issue you a ticket sign it. Incidentally, not signing could get you arrested.

Got Arrested

Finally, if you get arrested do not resist. Granted, you may feel the arrest is unfair just remain calm. Next, the officer will inform you of your rights. Specifically, they will read to you what is commonly known as your “Miranda Rights.” Since they cannot use anything you say against you in trial without explaining your rights.

For this reason, we recommend you let them know you want to remain silent and immediately ask for an attorney. In addition, you do not need to explain or sign anything. Also, if you cannot afford an attorney the state will provide one. Furthermore, they allow you to make one local call. And, if you request to speak to your attorney they cannot listen without your consent.

CONTACT TAMPA CRIMINAL DEFENSE ATTORNEY

In short, RHINO Lawyers can help and guide you through a system molded by law enforcement, judges, and lawyers for decades. Having won cases for our clients in similar circumstances, our criminal defense team knows what it takes to fight on your behalf.

Lastly, let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. So, get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.329.3491.

TRUCK ROLLOVER ACCIDENT

Large truck rollover accidents are the worst kind of truck accidents. Considering, for these accidents to occur the large truck must flip over while moving. Unfortunately, this type of accident is all too common on the roadways.

In fact, large trucks are prone to rollover accidents. This is due to their high center of gravity making them top-heavy. But these accidents are preventable. Knowing the common causes will help you to be proactive and decrease the amount of truck rollover accidents.

Common Causes of Trucking Rollovers

Incidentally, truck rollover accidents can occur because of many factors. According to the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA), over 78% of them involve driver error. However, driver error is not the only cause. Some of the common causes of truck rollovers include:

• Speeding – Higher speeds while turning or going around a curve could cause the trailer load to shift. This gives the truck more potential for a rollover accident.
• Careless/Reckless Driving – This includes drivers who are sleep-deprived, under the influence, and inexperienced with driving large trucks.
• Improperly Loaded Trailer – Causes rollovers when the shifts in transit. Commonly, due to not properly securing the cargo or unevenly distributing the weight of the cargo.
• Wind – Large truck trailers are tall and long making them susceptible to high winds. Drivers should avoid driving during high wind advisories.
• Improper Maintenance – Not maintaining the proper tire pressure and damage to the suspension can cause the truck to tip. Especially, when driving around sharp curves, uneven road surfaces, and steep downhill grades.

TIPS to Avoid a Trucking Rollover Accident

Even though, you cannot prevent truck driver error or weather conditions. While sharing the roads and highways with large trucks you can take precautions to avoid a rollover crash with a large truck.

• Drive Slower – When driving do not zip around or try to get the truck driver to drive faster. The higher speeds can contribute to many different accidents including rollovers. So, slow down and try to be patient. Even if it means you add a few minutes to your drive.
• Avoid Truck Blind Spots – Remember in order for the truck driver to see you, you must be visible in the truck’s mirror. Staying out of the blind spot can prevent the truck driver from trying to change lanes into you or an overreaction when the driver notices you in the lane. Keeping you, the truck driver, and other motorists safer.
• Don’t Pass Next to a Sharp Drop – Always focus on passing safely. Avoid passing on the side a steep drop and make sure you stay in your lane.
• Allow Truck Drivers Room to Turn – When a driver truck does not have enough room to turn it increases factors that can lead to rollover accidents. So, don’t follow too closely and allow plenty of room for them to turn.
• Pay Attention to Truck Cargo – While you can’t see the cargo in an enclosed trailer, you can see cargo on a flatbed. They secured cargo on flatbeds with straps. Unfortunately, the straps can loosen during the drive causing the cargo to shift. If you notice the cargo moving around don’t drive beside the truck. Try to signal the driver to make them aware of the issue.

CONTACT A TAMPA ATTORNEY

After a trucking accident, you may not know your rights. Don’t struggle through the process alone. Our personal injury team is here to help you with any legal needs you might have regarding your accident.

Let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. Get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.329.3491.

AUTO ACCIDENT NECK INJURY

Neck injuries are the most common injuries from auto accidents. Though an auto accident can affect your entire body, your neck is the most vulnerable. This is mostly due to the anatomy of the neck.

In fact, only the top seven vertebrae of the spin are part of the neck or cervical spine. These bones are small and thin. In addition, to bones, the neck has blood vessels, discs, and soft tissues like muscles, tendons, and nerves.

Consequently, thin bones and limited muscle support makes the neck susceptible to injury. Especially, from sudden movements.

Common Neck Injuries

If you injure your neck in a car accident you could feel the pain in other body parts. This could result from the part of the neck you injured in the accident. Here are the most common injuries to the neck:

• Muscle Spasms – Happen when muscles involuntary contract causing tightness and pain around the vertebrae.
• Lacerations or Abrasions – Also known as open wounds. These can cause infection, damage to tendons, or ligaments.
• Whiplash – Typically, occurs when the head is thrust back-and-forth suddenly.
• Soft Tissue Damage – Involves injuries to the muscles, tendons, or ligaments instead of the cervical spine.
• Vocal Cord Damage – An impact from a car accident could affect your larynx causing one or both of your vocal cords to not open properly.
• Brain Injuries – Caused when a neck injury damages the arteries. An injured artery could restrict the blood flow to your brain resulting in brain injury.
• Paresthesia – Is the pressure on the nerve from a slipped disc. As a result, it gives a prickling, burning, tingling, numb feeling (pins and needles feeling).

Consequently, it is possible to sustain more than one of these injuries in an auto accident. Therefore, it is important to have your injuries checked by a medical professional after an accident.

Long-Term Injury SYMPTOMS

Injuring your neck in a car accident is painful and can affect how you function in your daily life. However, left untreated the injury could escalate to a chronic health condition affecting your mental and emotional health. Here are some symptoms of long-term injuries to your neck.

CONTACT A TAMPA AUTO ACCIDENT ATTORNEY

After a car accident, you may not know your rights. Don’t struggle through the process alone. Our personal injury team is here to help you with any legal needs you might have regarding your accident.

Let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. Get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.329.3491.

MOTORCYCLE INSURANCE

Check your motorcycle insurance before riding this spring. With perfect riding weather on the way if you own a motorcycle you’ll want to ride. Incidentally, even a skilled motorcycle rider can succumb to the dangers of the road.

For a motorcyclist, road dangers are more than potholes, loose sand, and gravel. Additionally, they must contend with the actions of other motorists. Let alone, whether they have insurance or sufficient motorcycle coverage. Thus, checking your insurance policy is important.

Florida And Motorcycle Insurance

Florida motorcycle insurance laws baffle and mislead some people. Under the Florida no-fault law motorcycles are not considered motor vehicles. Because of this, motorcyclists are not required to carry Personal Injury Protection (PIP) or Bodily Injury (BI) coverage.

However, Florida does require riders to wear helmets. Unless the rider is over the age of 21. Then they must have a Financial Responsibility Certificate, $10,000 in medical insurance, or liability insurance.

coverage options for Motorcyclists

Although, these are optional for motorcyclists. Having them would help protect you after a motorcycle accident. Considering, a night in the hospital could run well over $25,000. You don’t want to rely on the other motorist.

In some cases, an uninsured or underinsured driver is at-fault for the accident. That’s when your policy might pay for losses and injuries. Consider these standard insurance options.

• Collision – This coverage will pay for damages to your motorcycle.
• Comprehensive Coverage – will pay for damages to your motorcycle caused by something other than an accident. It will also pay for stolen bikes.
• MedPay – This is a provision that drivers can get on their own policy. It will pay for medical bills regardless of who is at fault or injured. So long as the accident involved the insured or their vehicle.
• Personal Injury Protection (PIP) – This works like MedPay. But it pays medical bills and other damages like pain and suffering and loss of wages. It also pays out regardless of the injured party or at-fault. So long as the accident involved the insured or their vehicle. Motorcycle PIP is not regulated by Florida law so you will need to review all terms of the contract.
• Uninsured/Underinsured (UM/UIM) – Most insurance policies have uninsured/underinsured provisions. These will cover all your personal injury damages from underinsured or uninsured drivers. Motorcyclists should stack UM coverage on their auto insurance. Because it will always cover injuries sustained while riding a motorcycle.

In Florida, the law doesn’t require that a driver have UM/UIM. Yet, many people carry that as protection against those with no or little insurance. If a driver has any of these provisions, then they can collect against their own insurance company for their losses.

CONTACT A TAMPA MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT ATTORNEY

After a motorcycle accident, you may not know your rights. Don’t struggle through the process alone. Our personal injury team is here to help you with any legal needs you might have regarding your accident.

Let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. Get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.329.3491.

MOTORCYCLE SAFETY TIPS FOR SPRING

Think motorcycle safety this spring. Although motorcyclists can ride throughout the year in Florida, we still get an increase of motorcycles on the road in the spring. This is due to the beautiful weather and the influx of people visiting the state.

With so many people riding motorcycles the risk of accidents rises. In fact, the National Safety Council states 14% of all traffic deaths are motorcyclists. Consequently, this makes sense due to motorcyclists being less visible to other motorists and not having a steal chaise protecting them.

Yet, we can all help improve the safety of motorcyclists this spring by following some basic safety rules.

Tips for The Motorcyclist

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) and the Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF) recommend these safety tips:

• Safety Course – Whether your state requires a course or not to receive your license take it. Because all motorcyclists can benefit from a motorcycle safety course. At any rate, they will teach you important motorcycle traffic laws and how to handle emergencies.
• Wear a helmet – Considering, the leading cause of death in a motorcycle accident comes from head injuries. Wearing a DOT-approved helmet is one of the best ways to protect your head while riding.
• Other protective gear – Protecting your head is not the only thing you should worry about protecting. A motorcyclist should always wear protective clothing like a jacket, pants, gloves, and sturdy shoes. Wearing bright colors or clothing with reflective strips will also help improve your visibility to other motorists.
• Pre-ride maintenance check – Before you ride always give your motorcycle a once over. Check for fluid leaks, fluid levels, tire pressure, all lights, chain, and brakes.
• Road Awareness – As a motorcyclist, you should pay close attention to road conditions. Slippery roads can be very dangerous for motorcycle riders. Try to anticipate the actions of other drivers and watch for road hazards like potholes and loose sand.

Safety Tips for MOTORISTS

Motorcycle safety does not start and end with the motorcyclist. By the same token, all motorists can take precautions while sharing the road with motorcyclists. These safety tips could help keep our roads safe.

• Watch the road – Motorcycles are small and easily overlooked. Therefore, you should avoid distracted driving. Put your cell phone down so you are not talking or texting while driving. Because taking your hands and eyes off the road puts you at risk of an accident.
• Keep safe distance – It is important to always keep a safe distance between you and a motorcyclist on the road. Incidentally, motorcycle riders occasionally need to slow their speed or move within the lane to avoid hazards on the road. Maintaining a safe distance will help avert a rear-end collision with a motorcyclist.
• Yielding – Treat motorcycles the same as other vehicles on the road and yield to approaching motorcycles. Many motorcycle accidents occur when a car turns in front of them.
• Blindspot awareness – First of all, all cars have blind spots. Remembering to check your mirrors and look over your shoulder before changing lanes. It could be the difference between you hitting or not hitting a biker.

CONTACT A TAMPA MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT ATTORNEY

After a motorcycle accident, you may not know your rights. Don’t struggle through the process alone. Our personal injury team is here to help you with any legal needs you might have regarding your accident.

Let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. Get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.329.3491.

HOW LONG DO POINTS LAST ON YOUR LICENSE

Have you ever wondered how long the points stay on your license? To start with, you accumulate points on your license due to traffic violations. Unfortunately, these points will always remain on your record.

However, the points only count against you for three years. Incidentally, these will continue to collect on your license so the state can track and enforce penalties. Because you could have your license suspended if you accumulate too many points.

Points From Traffic Violations

Considering, you receive points on your license from traffic violations. It is important to know and understand the common traffic violations. It will help you to avoid getting points on your license. Florida’s common traffic violations include:

Long-Term Consequences From Points

Receiving points on your license result in long-term consequences. In fact, your insurance rates will increase for at least three years after a citation. Not to mention, too many points over time will result in a suspension of your driving privileges.

In addition, the state will revoke your license if you receive 3 major offenses or 15 minor violations in a 5-year period. Unfortunately, this many points on your license also earns you the title “habitual traffic offender (HTO).”

Removing Points from license

Luckily, you have options, so you do not accumulate points on your license. First, with some moving violations, you can go to traffic school to avoid points on your license. Actually, attending traffic school will not only keep points off your license, it will keep your insurance rate from going up.

Secondly, you can fight the ticket to keep points off your license. With this option, you would need to win your case in court to keep the points off. However, if the court finds you guilty, you will accrue the points on your license, pay any fines, and court fees. So, if you plan to fight your ticket, you should hire an attorney to represent you.

CONTACT TAMPA TRAFFIC TICKET ATTORNEY

RHINO Lawyers can help and guide you through a system molded by law enforcement, judges, and lawyers for decades. Having won cases for our clients in similar circumstances, our criminal defense team knows what it takes to fight on your behalf.

Let RHINO Lawyers answer your questions and review the facts of your case with a Free Consultation. Get started by completing the “Free Instant Case Evaluation” or by calling us any time, day or night, at 844.329.3491.