Motorcycle accidents can lead to severe injuries and even death due to how vulnerable you, the rider, are compared to other types of motorists.
To demonstrate, statistics from 2013 show that 93,000 motorcyclists were injured in traffic accidents in the United States with 4,610 fatalities.
Distracted drivers, inattentive car and truck drivers, unsafe road conditions, and other factors can contribute to these accidents. Often, motorists fail to yield to motorcycle riders and the rights they have on the road.
Because motorcyclists are much more vulnerable on the road they have a significantly higher risk than drivers or passengers of other types of vehicles. Motorcyclists are up to five times more likely to be injured in an accident and more than twenty-six times more likely to suffer death in the event of an accident.
Motorcycle accident claims
Motorcycles have reduced visibility on the road compared to most other vehicles because of their smaller size; however, motorcycle riders have the same rights on the road as other vehicles.
If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident it is in your best interest to work with a motorcycle accident law firm that handles cases involving injury or wrongful death claims. An experienced attorney can help protect your rights, investigate all aspects of the accident and injuries, and aggressively pursue the compensation you deserve.
Types of damages recoverable in motorcycle accident claims may include:
- Past and future medical costs
- Pain and suffering
- Mental health
- Rehabilitation and therapy
- Lost earnings
- Loss of enjoyment of life
- Loss of spousal relations
- Property damage
- Punitive damages
- Other damages
- Wrongful death
It is important to speak with an attorney immediately following the accident, failure to do so could result in a loss of evidence crucial to the case. Most attorneys offer a free initial consultation where you can confidentially discuss the details of your case and determine what options you have available to you.
Dealing with insurance companies
Always remember that the other driver’s insurance company is not on your side.
The insurance company will typically attempt to make you believe that you do not need to hire an attorney, and they will also be looking out for their own best interests, attempting to pay out as little as possible.
In most instances you are better off not speaking with the other party’s insurance company, communication should be left in the hands of an experienced motorcycle accident injury attorney. Remember that handling the claim with the insurance company yourself can be hurtful to your case and may result in you collecting less compensation than you deserve.
Do I need a motorcycle accident attorney?
You may not always need a motorcycle accident attorney.
If it’s a minor accident and you are simply looking to have your motorcycle repaired you may be able to handle the insurance claims yourself.
But, if you are uncertain, you should always contact an attorney.
As I mentioned, most accident attorneys offer a free initial consultation (as do I) and will advise you as to whether or not their services should be utilized depending on the details of your case.
Have You Been Struck By A Vehicle? Here’s What You Need To Know