How South Florida Motorcyclists Can Get Compensation After a Hit-and-Run Crash
Getting hit while riding a motorcycle is scary enough — but when the driver speeds off and leaves you behind, it’s even worse. As a rider, you don’t have the protection of a car frame, airbags, or seatbelts. One moment you’re enjoying the road, and the next you’re dealing with serious injuries and a driver who’s nowhere to be found.
If you’ve been involved in a hit-and-run accident on your motorcycle here in South Florida, you still have options to recover money for your injuries, damages, and losses. Here’s what you need to know:
Hit-and-Run Accidents Are on the Rise
Leaving the scene of an accident is a crime in Florida and across the country. Drivers who hit and run can face fines, lose their license, and even end up behind bars.
Even though it’s illegal, hit-and-run crashes happen far too often. According to AAA, there were more than 737,000 hit-and-run accidents across the U.S. in a single year, causing over 2,000 deaths. Roughly 1 out of every 9 car crashes involves a driver who flees.
Unfortunately, when it’s a motorcycle involved, the injuries tend to be much more severe.
Gathering Evidence After a Hit-and-Run
If you’re able to move safely after the crash, it’s critical to gather as much evidence as possible. Even small details can help track down the driver. Useful evidence includes:
- Witness names, phone numbers, and statements
- Dash cam footage (yours or other drivers nearby)
- Surveillance video from nearby businesses or homes
- Photos and videos of the accident scene, skid marks, vehicle parts, etc.
- A detailed police report
If law enforcement can find and arrest the hit-and-run driver, you may be able to sue them in court for your injuries and damages. In Florida, you can also ask for punitive damages — extra money designed to punish reckless behavior like fleeing the scene.
What If the Driver Is Never Found?
If the at-fault driver disappears and the police can’t track them down, don’t lose hope. You can make a claim through your Uninsured Motorist (UM) coverage if you have it on your motorcycle insurance policy.
UM coverage steps in when the person responsible for the accident can’t be identified or doesn’t have insurance. It can help pay for:
- Past and future medical bills
- Lost wages and loss of earning ability
- Pain, suffering, and emotional distress
- Out-of-pocket expenses related to your injuries
Florida insurance companies are required to offer UM coverage, but it’s optional for you to buy — so check your policy!
You may also have Personal Injury Protection (PIP) benefits that can help cover some immediate medical expenses, although PIP tends to be limited when it comes to serious motorcycle accidents.
Why You Should Call an Attorney
After a hit-and-run motorcycle crash, trying to deal with the aftermath by yourself can be overwhelming. Insurance companies are not your friends — they are businesses looking to save money wherever they can, even if it’s at your expense.
You need someone fighting for you, making sure you get every dollar you deserve. Whether it’s suing the hit-and-run driver or negotiating with your own insurance company, an experienced motorcycle accident attorney can make a major difference in your recovery.
I’m Gabriel J. Carrera, a Fort Lauderdale trial lawyer who has been fighting for injured riders across Florida for 18 years. If you’ve been hit and left behind, don’t wait — call me directly at (954) 533-7593 or email me at [email protected].
I ride, I understand what you’re going through, and I’m here to help you get back on the road and back to living your life. Just Call Gabe!
