Florida cities are typically filled with locals and tourists from all over the world, many of whom may not be familiar with traffic rules in Florida, and unfamiliar surroundings often cause distractions. Drivers of mopeds and scooters are as vulnerable as motorcycle riders and bicyclists. When they are involved in crashes, the circumstances that caused it typically put them in a motorist’s blind spot, or even worse, a truck driver’s blind spot. Many personal injury lawsuits follow such accidents.
Injured victims may be unsure of their rights and what steps to take to pursue financial relief. One possible source of compensation is the rider’s own insurer. If that is not an option, he or she might claim from the insurance provider of the driver who caused the accident. However, insurance payouts do not always cover all losses, such as lost income and future medical expenses, if applicable.
The other option is to file a personal injury lawsuit in a civil court. This option could lead to more comprehensive coverage of damages, but only if there is proof of the other driver’s fault. The court will base its findings on the plaintiff’s ability to establish negligence. That will enable the determination of liability and the adjudication of documented losses.
This might sound easier than what it is, and the support and guidance of an experienced Florida personal injury attorney might simplify the process. The lawyer can explain how the moped rider’s contributory negligence — even if it is a small percentage — can affect the monetary judgment. Nevertheless, with experienced legal counsel on his or her side, the injured moped rider can hope to get fair compensation to cover all the damages sustained.
Source: FindLaw, “Scooter or Moped Accident: When to Sue for Injuries“, Molly Zilli, April 14, 2018