Motorcycle Accidents: What You Need To Know
Summer months in North Carolina often mean hitting the open road. While enjoying our motorcycle is a highlight for many of us during the summer, unfortunately, accidents happen. Before you know it, you could be suffering from a serious injury. The Law Office of W. Daniel Grist, PLLC, has over 20 years of experience helping injured victims.
Our firm prides itself on our specific attention to each and every client. We will do our best to provide you with knowledgeable representation and fight for the best possible solution to help you get the financial compensation you deserve for your personal injury. We are here to represent you when it matters most.
What To Do After A Crash
Motorcycle riders are prone to getting into an accident, which can be physically and emotionally devastating.
In this case, you should know how to protect yourself and your rights. Here is a guide to help you through the aftermath of a motorcycle crash. First, victims of motorcycle accidents should prioritize safety. Then:
- Do not admit fault, even if you believe you might be at fault. Instead, seek the help of experienced motorcycle accident lawyers.
- Capture photographs of the accident scene, including vehicle damage, road conditions and any relevant signage.
- File a police report, as it serves as valuable documentation when determining fault and negotiating with your insurance company for fair compensation.
- Even if your injuries seem minor, seek medical evaluation promptly. This helps protect your health and tie any injuries directly to the wreck.
The statute of limitations for filing a personal injury lawsuit after a motorcycle accident in North Carolina is three years from the date of the accident. If you fail to file a claim within this time frame, you forfeit your right to pursue compensation for property damage, medical expenses, physical pain and other losses.
Determining Fault In A North Carolina Motorcycle Crash
In North Carolina, the fault in a motorcycle accident is determined based on contributory negligence. Factors considered in determining negligence include traffic violations or reckless behavior.
However, it is not a straightforward process, as determining fault can be complex. You need legal assistance from an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer to establish fault accurately and to keep the insurance company from unfairly assigning fault to you. In addition, motorcycle injury lawyers can advocate on your behalf and help secure the maximum compensation you deserve for the damages incurred.
Our attorneys offer free consultations, where we will walk you through the process. We are committed to paying attention to detail and ensuring we give our clients personalized services to help alleviate the stress of dealing with insurance companies.
Staying Aware On The Road
As a motorcycle driver, it is important to protect yourself. However, we can’t control others on the road. Drivers face many unique problems. If you’ve been a victim of one or more of these, you may be entitled to compensation. They include:
- Visual recognition: Because motorcycles are smaller, they are often obscured. This is especially important at intersections.
- Road hazards: These include potholes, puddles, debris, uneven pavement and railroad tracks. If the roads aren’t taken care of, it is not your fault.
- Speed “wobble” accidents: Typically at higher speeds, the front end of a motorcycle may become unstable. The manufacturer may be held responsible for resulting injuries.
Without a personal injury attorney to help you, you risk receiving a settlement that is far less than you deserve, or not receiving compensation at all. Don’t take on the legal system alone. We are here to help you every step of the way.
Call Today To Get Started
Motorcycle accidents are especially dangerous for the riders, as they do not have as many safety features as passenger vehicles on the road. The consequences of an accident can last a lifetime, and we believe the compensation you receive for them should reflect that.
Although motorcycle injuries can be severe, don’t let your injuries scare you from a hobby you enjoy. Contact our Charlotte office today at for a free consultation or fill out our online contact form. Se habla Español.