Riding a motorcycle may be fun and offer an unmatched sense of freedom, but it’s also risky. The thrill and excitement of zooming through the streets can quickly turn into a nightmare.
Especially in busy areas with heavy traffic, unpredictable road conditions, and distracted drivers, motorcycle accidents are, unfortunately, all too common.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a motorcycle accident, one of the first things you should do is secure legal representation. Lawyers can help you – or the victim – get compensated for medical bills, lost wages, and even emotional distress.
Why Motorcycle Accidents Happen
Many communities in the US, like Silver Spring, are a mix of urban roads, highways, and residential areas. While they make great places to ride your motorcycle in, they also increase the risk of accidents.
Here are some factors that may contribute to motorcycle accidents:
- Negligent Drivers: Distracted, speeding, or impaired drivers pose a significant threat to motorcyclists. Make sure you keep an eye on other drivers on the road and stay away from reckless ones.
- Poor Road Conditions: Potholes, debris, and uneven pavement can be dangerous for riding, especially when you’re on a motorcycle. Don’t ride too fast on such roads.
- Limited Visibility: Motorcycles are smaller than cars, making them harder for drivers to notice in blind spots.
- Dense Traffic: Busy roads like Georgia Avenue and Colesville Road experience heavy traffic, which makes motorcycle riders more vulnerable to collisions.
If you’ve suffered financial, physical, and emotional harm due to an accident on these roads, consider consulting Silver Spring motorcycle accident lawyers for proper compensation.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Many motorcycle crashes result from preventable factors.
Some of the most frequent causes include:
- Left-Turn Collisions: One of the most common types of motorcycle accidents happens when a vehicle turns left in front of an oncoming rider. Drivers often misjudge a motorcycle’s speed or fail to see it altogether.
- Lane Changes Without Checking Blind Spots: Motorcycles are easy to miss, especially if drivers don’t properly check their blind spots before changing lanes. This can lead to serious side-swipe accidents.
- Distracted Driving: Texting, eating, or even using a GPS while driving can take a driver’s attention away from the road, putting motorcyclists in danger.
- Speeding and Reckless Driving: Excessive speed reduces reaction time for both motorcyclists and other drivers, increasing the likelihood of severe accidents.
- Driving Under the Influence: Alcohol and drugs impair judgment and reaction time, making crashes more likely. Both motorcyclists and car drivers involved in DUI-related accidents face serious risks.
What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident
If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, taking the right steps can make a significant difference in your recovery and legal case.
Here’s what you can do:
- Seek medical attention immediately. Even if you feel fine, injuries from motorcycle crashes can be severe and may not be immediately noticeable due to adrenaline. Always get checked by a medical professional.
- Call 911 and report the accident. A police report can be an essential piece of evidence in your case. Officers will document the scene, speak to the witnesses, and file an official report.
- Gather evidence if possible. Take photos of the accident scene, damage to your motorcycle, road conditions, and any visible injuries. You should also collect contact information from witnesses and the other driver.
- Don’t admit fault. Even saying something as simple as “I’m sorry” can be used against you. Stick to the facts when you’re speaking to the police as well as the insurance companies.
- Get in touch with a motorcycle accident lawyer. Working with an experienced lawyer will help you receive the compensation you deserve. A lawyer will handle everything from negotiating with insurance companies to representing you in court if needed.
Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents
The injuries sustained after a motorcycle accident can be relatively severe compared to other vehicles. For example, motorcycles lack the protection and cover that a car provides.
Here are some injuries to look out for:
- Broken bones
- Head injuries, like traumatic brain injury
- Road rash
- Internal injuries or bleeding
Even when you’re wearing a helmet, motorcycle crashes tend to leave harsher wounds and injuries. Older riders may be even more susceptible to serious injuries.
How a Lawyer Can Help
Aggressive insurance tactics and bias against motorcycle riders can make it challenging to resolve motorcycle accident cases. Such complications, however, can easily be handled by having a skilled lawyer.
An accident lawyer can help you in several ways. They can:
- Determine Liability: A lawyer will investigate the accident, collect more evidence, and establish who was at fault.
- Negotiate with Insurance Companies: Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. An attorney will help ensure that you don’t settle for less than what you deserve.
- Calculate Damages: Your lawyer will help calculate the full extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and property damage.
- Represent You in Court: If a fair settlement isn’t reached, your lawyer will take your case to court and fight for maximum compensation.
How to Choose the Right Lawyer
Not all personal injury lawyers specialize in motorcycle accidents, so choosing the right legal representation is crucial.
Here’s what to look for:
- Make sure they have experience with motorcycle accident cases. A lawyer who is familiar with such accidents knows the unique challenges involved and will be able to counter the bias against motorcycle riders.
- They should have a strong track record of winning cases. Check their client testimonials, case results, and online reviews to ensure the lawyer has a history of successfully handling motorcycle accident claims.
- Find out if they would be willing to take your case to trial. Some lawyers prefer quick settlements, but you need someone who’s prepared to fight in court if it becomes necessary.
- They communicate clearly and transparently. Your attorney should explain your rights, legal options, and the process in a way that is easy to understand for you.
Final Thoughts
Motorcycle accidents can be life-altering. With the right legal representation, however, you can recover emotionally and financially.
If you’ve been injured in a crash, consult with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer right away. They will help you manage the complexities and the complications of the legal system, helping you fight for the compensation that you deserve.
So, don’t wait any longer. Reach out to a trusted attorney today to protect your rights and start on the path to recovery.