Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Driver Negligence and Recklessness
Car and truck drivers often fail to notice motorcycles or misjudge their speed and distance. Distracted driving also leads to accidents with bikers.
Hazardous Road Conditions
Potholes, debris, uneven pavement, gravel, and slippery surfaces can all cause motorcycle riders to lose control, especially when taking turns.
Impaired Drivers
Intoxicated drivers pose a major risk to motorcyclists. Reaction times are slower for impaired drivers and their judgment is compromised.
Mechanical Defects or Maintenance Issues
Equipment failures like tire blowouts or brake issues can be catastrophic for motorcycle riders. Lack of maintenance heightens risks.
How an Experienced Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Help
Conducting a Thorough Investigation of the Accident
An attorney gathers police reports, obtains video footage, takes photographic evidence, reconstructs the collision, and interviews witnesses to determine exactly what occurred.
Establishing Liability of the Negligent Driver
Lawyers prove the liable driver’s negligent actions like speeding, distraction, recklessness, or impairment directly caused the accident and biker’s injuries.
Inspecting the Motorcycle for Any Defects or Malfunctions
If faulty motorcycle equipment contributed to the crash, attorneys inspect the vehicle damage and components to identify product liability claims against manufacturers.
Maximizing Compensation for Your Injuries and Damages
Experienced lawyers fight for the maximum available compensation from all liable parties to cover medical bills, lost income, pain and suffering, and other crash damages.
Taking the Case to Trial if a Settlement Cannot Be Reached
If insurers refuse reasonable settlement demands, aggressive lawyers take cases to court and argue for full compensation in front of a jury.
Tips for Choosing the Best Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Look for Substantial Experience Handling Motorcycle Cases
Ask specifically how many past motorcycle injury cases they have litigated and their record of settlements and verdicts obtained.
Verify Strong Past Results and Settlements
An impressive background delivering favorable outcomes, large verdicts, and strong settlements for clients indicates likelihood of success on your case.
Select a Lawyer Dedicated to Personal Client Service
Ensure the attorney will be hands-on and provide one-on-one personal attention to you throughout the case, not pass you off to assistants.
Ensure They Have Sufficient Resources to Take Cases to Trial
Opt for a law firm with ample staff and financial resources to take cases to court when needed, not just settle. This provides more leverage.
Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident
Seek Medical Attention Right Away
Get evaluated by first responders or visit an ER promptly after a motorcycle crash to document injuries before symptoms potentially worsen over time.
Document the Scene Thoroughly
Take ample photos and video capturing road conditions, weather, collision debris, property damage, and any factors that may have caused or contributed to the accident.
Report the Accident to Authorities
File a formal report with police to create an official record of the incident. Get a copy of this report.
Consult an Attorney Before Providing Recorded Statements
Avoid giving any statements to insurance companies until discussing with counsel. Insurers can distort statements against you.
In conclusion, retaining one of the best motorcycle accident lawyers after a serious collision provides invaluable help determining liability, navigating claims, maximizing compensation, and taking legal action when warranted. Experienced legal representation protects the rights of injured motorcycle riders.
Frequently Asked Questions
What compensation is available in a motorcycle accident claim?
You may claim damages for medical bills, lost income, property damage, loss of future earning capacity if disabled, pain and suffering, and other losses directly attributable to the accident.
How much does hiring a motorcycle accident lawyer cost?
Most work on contingency, taking a percentage fee only if they recover compensation for you. Initial consultations are free.
How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident lawsuit?
Deadlines called statutes of limitations restrict how long you have to pursue legal action, commonly 2-3 years depending on the state.
Am I less likely to win compensation if I was not wearing a helmet during the accident?
Lack of a helmet may be used to claim comparative negligence, but experienced lawyers can still negotiate fair compensation proportional to the driver’s fault.
What questions should I ask when selecting a motorcycle accident attorney?
Ask about their case experience, results obtained, staff resources, willingness to go to trial if needed, lawyer fees, and if they will personally handle your case from start to finish.
