Do I need a motorcycle accident attorney or will any auto accident attorney be OK?
Motorcycle accidents are different to regular auto accidents in many ways. Even though it is not supposed to work this way, bikers are subject to prejudice from all sides. It starts at the scene of the accident with law enforcement and witnesses. Jury members are often biased as well. Worst of all, many attorneys are not comfortable handling motorcycle accident case or working with motorcycle riders.
Fortunately there are attorney out there who not only have experience with motorcycle accident cases, but who also ride, giving them a better understanding of the physics and other unique elements involved in motorcycle accidents.
What are the most common causes of motorcycle accidents?
Motorcycle accidents often happen when drivers do not see the motorcycle or do not honor the motorcycle’s right of way.
Single vehicle motorcycle accidents can be caused by:
- Defective roadways
- Poor weather conditions
- Negligent behavior on the part of other drivers
All too often a motorcycle goes off the road while trying to avoid a collision with a car or truck. In many cases the other driver does not stop, if they notice the motorcycle at all.
What types of injuries are caused by motorcycle accidents?
Motorcycles provide no protection for riders, so injuries are often severe or fatal. Common injuries in motorcycle accidents include:
- Brain injury
- Spinal cord injury
- Neck injury
- Back injury
- Broken bones and fractures
- Amputations
- Road rash
- Facial injuries
- Paralysis
- Death
Do helmet laws really save lives?
Helmet laws are very controversial. There is no doubt that in some accidents an adequate helmet can prevent or minimize brain injury. From there it gets complicated. Many helmets do not provide sufficient protection from brain injury, and those that do may cause deadly neck injuries. Some statistics indicate that helmet laws reduce deaths, but they also indicate that helmet laws significantly reduce riding in general, offsetting the reduction in fatal accidents.
If I wasn’t wearing a helmet, do I still have a case?
Yes. Helmet laws vary from state to state, but even if you violated the helmet law in your state you can still pursue compensation from the liable party. The amount of compensation that you are entitled to may be reduced.
If you or a loved one has been injured or killed in a motorcycle accident, contact an experienced motorcycle accident attorney today.
