Daytona Bike Week is one of the most popular motorcycle events in the United States, attracting hundreds of thousands of bikers worldwide looking to ride, party, and celebrate all things motorcycle-related. While the event is an excellent opportunity for bikers to bond and have a good time, it can also lead to an increase in accidents.
The Eberst Law Firm is ready to help if you suffered an injury in a Bike Week accident that wasn’t your fault. When you turn to us, you can rest assured we’ll be at your side throughout the duration of your case. Call 1-888-CALL-JON for a free consultation, or contact us online.
What is Daytona Bike Week, and Why Does it Lead to an Increase in Accidents?
During the week-long event, attendees can participate in various activities, including motorcycle races, bike shows, music concerts, and street festivals. Many vendors also sell motorcycle-related products and services, making it a great opportunity for bikers to buy new gear and accessories.
However, accidents can and do happen with so many bikers in one place. The combination of crowded streets, heavy traffic, and inexperienced riders can make for a dangerous situation. In addition, many attendees come to the event to consume alcohol, which can impair their judgment and lead to reckless behavior on the road.
Types of Accidents that Occur at and Around Daytona Bike Week
Several types of accidents can occur at and around Daytona Bike Week, including:
- Rear-end collisions – These happen when a motorist hits a motorcycle from behind. They often occur due to distracted drivers who fail to see the motorcycle in front of them.
- Lane-changing accidents – Drivers will often fail to check their blind spot before changing lanes and collide with a motorcycle as a result.
- Intersection accidents – Motorists can also fail to yield to a motorcycle at an intersection, often leading to severe injuries.
- Drunk driving accidents – Unfortunately, drunk driving is a common problem during Daytona Bike Week, leading to many accidents and injuries.
Statistics from Daytona Bike Week
Nearly 70 people suffered injuries in the first five days of Bike Week alone, compared to 64 during the entire event in 2022. There were only 37 injuries during Bike Week 2021. Two fatalities were reported as of this writing, compared to six deaths in 2022 and eight in 2021.
Common Injuries from Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents can result in severe injuries that can be life-threatening and very expensive to treat. Common injuries from motorcycle accidents include:
- Traumatic brain injuries – A TBI can result from a rider’s head striking the ground or another object, leading to permanent brain damage or even death.
- Spinal cord injuries – These can result in partial or complete paralysis, depending on the severity of the injury.
- Broken bones – Riders can suffer from broken bones in their arms, legs, and other body parts during a crash.
- Road rash – This occurs when a rider slides across the pavement during a crash, resulting in abrasions and skin irritation.
- Internal injuries – Riders can suffer from internal injuries, such as damage to their organs or internal bleeding, which can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
- Burns – If a motorcycle catches on fire during a crash, riders can suffer from burns that can be severe and require extensive medical treatment.
Types of Evidence Used to Build a Motorcycle Accident Case
If you are involved in a motorcycle accident during Daytona Bike Week, it’s essential to gather as much evidence as possible to support your case. Types of evidence that your attorney may use to build a motorcycle accident case include:
- Eyewitness statements – These can be powerful evidence in a case.
- Police report – Police officers who respond to the accident scene will write a report detailing their observations and any evidence they collect.
- Medical records – Medical records documenting your injuries and treatment can help establish the extent of your damages.
- Photographs – Photographs of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage can help paint a picture of what happened.
- Video footage – Video footage of the accident, such as from a surveillance camera, can also provide compelling evidence.
Steps You Need to Take After an Accident at Daytona Bike Week
If you were involved in a motorcycle accident during Daytona Bike Week, there are several steps you should take to protect your legal rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve:
- Seek medical attention – Even if you feel fine, you must get checked out by a doctor to ensure you do not have any underlying injuries.
- Gather evidence – As mentioned above, gather as much evidence as possible from the accident scene, including police reports and photographs.
- Contact an attorney – Speak with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney as soon as possible after your accident to ensure they protect your legal rights.
- Do not admit fault – Even if you think you may have been partially to blame for the accident, don’t admit fault to anyone at the scene. Let the investigation determine who was at fault.
- Notify your insurance company – Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible, but don’t give them a recorded statement until you have spoken with an attorney.
- Never accept a settlement without speaking to an attorney – Insurance companies may offer you a settlement quickly after the accident. Still, speaking with an attorney before accepting any offer is essential.
Contact The Eberst Law Firm To Speak with an Experienced Accident Attorney Today
If you are involved in a motorcycle accident during Daytona Bike Week, speak with an experienced accident attorney to ensure your legal rights are protected. The Eberst Law Firm has a team of skilled and experienced attorneys who can help you navigate the legal process and get the compensation you deserve.
Call 1-888-CALL-JON or use our online contact form for a free case review.
