Is Lane Sharing Allowed in the State of Florida by Motor Scooter Operators?
Motor scooters are compact, allowing for more than one motor scooter to ride side-by-side in a lane. This is considered lane sharing, not the more known lane splitting where motorcycles ride between the lanes. Like lane splitting, lane sharing in Jacksonville, while not technically illegal, can leave motor scooter operators vulnerable to larger automobiles on the roadway.
Is Lane Sharing in Florida Legal When Operating a Motor Scooter?
Florida motor scooter operators must follow many of the same laws as motorcycle riders in Florida and may legally lane share if they ride no more than two abreast in a single lane. Lane sharing is legal in Florida as long as you reasonably operate a motor scooter at a safe speed.
As a motor scooter operator, like other automobile operators, you have the legal right to the full use of the lane. Auto operators who infringe on that space and cause an accident may be responsible for your damages in a motor scooter accident.
What Should I Do After a Lane-Sharing Motor Scooter Accident in Florida?
A crash may occur with another motor scooter operator or motorist while lane sharing. The other driver’s actions may cause you significant injury. Motor scooter drivers are not legally required to carry Personal Insurance Protection (PIP). However, coverage by some form of insurance is always advisable to pay for your damages.
Contact law enforcement after a motor scooter accident to file a police report and document the incident. Calling 911 alerts police and medical providers, getting you the needed help. Documenting a motor scooter accident and your injuries with a police report, medical treatment, photos, and other evidence will play a crucial role in your financial recovery and determining who pays for medical bills after a Jacksonville accident.
Is Filing a Claim or Lawsuit After a Florida Lane Sharing Accident Possible?
Most injured Florida drivers submit a claim under PIP coverage. However, you may not have PIP if you only own a motor scooter. Additionally, full coverage of your injuries under PIP may not be possible when you suffer extensive damage. You may need a personal injury lawyer even if you submit a PIP claim to recover from the costs and damages to you entirely.
Florida allows injured motorists to file a claim with the at-fault driver’s insurance when their damages exceed the serious injury threshold. Pursuing a lawsuit may be necessary when the insurance company refuses a fair settlement or blames you for the accident.
What if I am Partially at Fault in a Lane Sharing Accident?
Florida’s modified comparative negligence law allows for proportionate assignment of fault in an accident. Recovering your costs may still be possible if your portion of responsibility is not equal to 51% or more. The portion of fault assigned to you can significantly impact your recovery.
To save money for damages, the insurance company may place unnecessary blame on you for the accident. Your percentage of fault then reduces your claim. For example, the insurance company may say your actions are 40% responsible for the incident, allowing them to reduce your damages, only paying you 60% of your total compensation.
The law does not require motor scooter operators over the age of 16 to wear helmets. However, wearing a helmet with a camera can provide unbiased and objective evidence for your claim. This crucial documentation can help prevent the reduction of your compensation.
Discuss Your Recovery Options in a Jacksonville, FL Motor Scooter Lane Sharing Accident
Motor scooter accidents often cause consequential damages to vulnerable road users. Lane sharing is legal in Florida when done responsibly, but motor scooter accidents can still lead to serious injuries. If you’ve been hurt in a crash, you may be entitled to compensation—even if you’re partially at fault. Since PIP coverage isn’t required for scooters, filing a claim or lawsuit may be necessary. An experienced Jacksonville personal injury attorney can help you protect your rights and pursue the compensation you deserve.
Contact the Jacksonville Personal Injury Law Firm of Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers Today For Help
For more information, please contact the Jacksonville and Ponte Vedra personal injury law firm of Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers at the nearest location to schedule a free consultation today.
We serve Duval County, St. Johns County, and its surrounding areas:
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Jacksonville
9471 Baymeadows Rd #105,
Jacksonville, FL 32256
(904) 396-1100
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Downtown Jacksonville
121 W Forsyth St Suite 1000,
Jacksonville, FL 32202
(904) 822-4225
Baggett Law Personal Injury Lawyers – Ponte Vedra
480 Town Plaza Ave #130,
Ponte Vedra Beach, FL 32081
(904) 675-1167