Motorcycle accidents may result in severe injury, costly medical bills, and lengthy legal battles. Motorcycle riders need to be informed about their rights and know what they should do in the event of a motorcycle accident. With the right information and support, you will be able to protect your interests and obtain fair compensation. This article provides information on motorcycle accident claims, including what riders should know and the importance of hiring an attorney for motorcycle accident.
Typical Reasons For Motorcycle Mishaps
There are many reasons why motorcycle accidents might happen.
- Distracted Driver: Many car accidents happen because motorists don’t notice motorcycles when they are distracted. This can be due to texting while driving, eating, or adjusting controls in the vehicle.
- Left turn collisions: Several accidents occur when cars make a left turn in front of an approaching motorcycle.
- Lane splitting: Even though lane splitting is legal in some States, it’s risky if you don’t know the presence of motorcyclists.
- Unsafe Driving and Speeding: A speeding driver is more likely to cause an accident.
- Road Risks: Potholes, debris, and poorly maintained roads pose significant hazards to motorcyclists.
- Driving while Under the Influence Impaired motorcycle drivers pose a significant threat to riders because their judgment and reactions are compromised.
Understanding what causes accidents can help riders stay safe and take preventative measures. However, accidents do happen, and it is important to know what to do in the event of one.
Steps To Take After A Motorcycle Accident
If you decide to claim after a motorcycle accident, you can increase your chances of success.
- Seek Medical Treatment Immediately
Consult a doctor even if everything seems fine. Some injuries, like internal bleeds or concussions, do not always show symptoms. A medical report may also prove crucial to your claim.
- Contact Law Enforcement
To report an accident, call the police. In a police report, you will find important details, including witness statements and the location of your accident.
- Get Evidence On The Scene
When possible, gather evidence such as:
- Photos of accident scenes, road conditions, and vehicle damage
- Witness contact information
- Other driver’s insurance details
- Your injuries and protective equipment used
- Avoid Admitting Fault
If you are unsure whether you were at fault, do not admit it on the scene. Let the insurance companies, police, and other parties determine who is responsible based on their evidence.
- Your Insurance Company Must Be Notified
Insurers often try to minimize payouts, and an attorney for motorcycle accident claims can help protect your interests. If you want to protect yourself, a lawyer for a motorcycle accident can help.
Filing A Legal Claim For A Motorcycle Accident
Motorcycle accident claims are complex. However, knowing your legal rights can help you increase your chances for fair compensation.
- Calculating Liability
Liability is determined by negligence in motorcycle accidents. If you want to prove that another driver was at fault, then you need to prove:
- It was their duty of care to you.
- This duty was breached by speeding or running red lights.
- They are directly responsible for your accident.
- You have been damaged as a result.
A motorcycle accident attorney who has experience in these cases can help gather evidence, reconstruct accidents, and prove the Liability.
- Compensation Types
Motorcycle accident injuries may qualify for compensation.
- Medical Costs: Covers future medical expenses and hospital bills.
- Wage Loss: Covers income loss due to inability to perform work because of an injury.
- Pain & Suffering: Compensates emotional distress, physical pain & loss of Quality of Life.
- Property damages: Repair or replace your motorcycle and any damaged gear.
- Unlawful Death Damages: If your loved one has died, you can claim for funeral expenses as well as loss of financial support.
- How Long Can You File A Claim For?
Each state has its statute of limitation, which is basically the legal deadline in order to file a lawsuit. Most states set this deadline between two and three years from the date that the accident happened. Contacting an attorney quickly will ensure you don’t fall behind on this deadline.
Conclusion
To get the compensation you are entitled to after a motorbike accident, you must be aware of your rights. If you consult a motorcycle accident lawyer and take the correct steps after an incident, you will be able to protect your interests while focusing on recovery. If you or someone you love has been hurt in a bike accident, do not navigate the legal procedure alone. Get professional legal support and fight for your legal rights.