While car accidents and motorcycle accidents do have a number of similarities, there are also many ways in which motorcycle accidents are different than car accidents.
Unfortunately, the main difference is that motorcycle accident victims are more likely to die and suffer catastrophic injuries than motor vehicle occupants. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcyclists were around 27 times more likely to die than passenger vehicle occupants in 2017 (per vehicle miles traveled).
If you were hurt in a motorcycle accident caused by another party’s negligence, you have the right to sue them for compensation for your damages.
Negligence and Liability in Motorcycle Accidents
Car drivers can cause motorcycle accidents by their negligent or careless actions. Causes of motorcycle accidents can include:
- Failing to yield to a motorcycle
- Pulling out in front of a motorcycle
- Opening car doors into the path of a motorcycle
- Tailgating
- Making an improper left turn
- Driving impaired
- Driving while texting
There can potentially be many other causes of motorcycle accidents due to negligent car drivers.
Other Liable Parties
Motorcycle riders are also vulnerable to road defects and debris in the road. A local municipality may be liable for motorcycle accidents caused by dangerous road conditions.
If a negligent mechanic or motorcycle manufacturer caused an accident due to a mechanical failure, they may owe the injured rider compensation. No matter how your crash occurred, a motorcycle accident lawyer from our firm can help you pursue compensation for your damages.
Injuries Can Be More Serious in Motorcycle Accidents
According to NHTSA, if all motorcyclists involved in crashes in 2017 had worn helmets, 749 lives could have been saved. Undoubtedly, wearing helmets and the appropriate safety clothing can help save lives.
However, the fact remains that motorcyclists are more likely to suffer fatal injuries than car occupants. Even with the protection of helmets and other safety gear, motorcyclists are still prone to suffering from disabling head and brain injuries or injuries of the spine.
Injuries that Result from Motorcycle Accidents Can Entitle Victims to Damages
Even in minor accidents, motorcyclists can potentially suffer devastating and long-term injuries, especially when they get thrown off their motorcycle into traffic or into a barrier. Serious and complicated fractures, internal bleeding, internal organ damage, and other potentially fatal injuries can occur in any motorcycle accident.
Those that survive motorcycle accidents may have to deal with their injuries and disabilities for the rest of their lives. Some individuals, tragically, may never return to their job or be able to live an independent life.
How Your Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Help You
Legal assistance and representation can leave you with peace of mind that someone is looking out for your best interests while you heal from your injuries. Your motorcycle accident lawyer can help you in several important ways:
Collecting Evidence
In order to recover compensation in an insurance claim or lawsuit, you will have to prove the responsible party’s negligence with solid evidence. Your lawyer can gather the relevant documents and materials for your case, such as:
- Accident reports
- Dashcam footage
- Witness statements
- Your medical records
- Testimony from accident reconstruction experts
Handling The At-fault Party’s Insurance Company
Accident victims sometimes are willing to accept any settlement offered to them by the at-fault party’s insurance. Be cautious in this situation. Accepting a low settlement offer could leave you with out-of-pocket expenses down the line.
Your lawyer will be able to handle the insurance company for you. They will protect your legal rights and evaluate the fairness of all settlement offers. A lawyer can also make sure you are not getting short-changed. They will review your damages, calculate your claim’s worth, and fight for fair compensation on your behalf.
Representing You at Trial
If the insurance company refuses to make you a fair settlement offer or accept their client’s responsibility for your injuries, your lawyer can take your case to trial.
Call Jacoby & Meyers Law Offices Today for a Tree Case Review
You do not have to fight alone. Call Jacoby & Meyers Law Offices now at (888) 522-6291 for a free case review and to find out if you may be able to recover compensation. Our team understands how motorcycle accidents are different from car accidents and will be happy to answer any further questions you have during this call.