Motorcycle Accident Liability

When another driver puts you at risk because they are negligent or careless, they should be held responsible. 

Most people are aware that riding motorcycles comes with major risk. Because there is very little protection for motorcyclists, motorcycle accidents are more likely to result in serious injury or death. There is no barrier protection, no airbags or seat belts, and there is obviously far less stability. Motorcycle accidents can also be caused by defective motorcycle parts. In addition, motorcycles are less visible to cars, and drivers often cite being unable to see motorcycles as the reason for an accident. Wearing a helmet can decrease the risk of traumatic head injury or death, though many of the deaths that occur involve motorcyclists who were wearing helmets.

Motorcyclists deal with hazards that enclosed vehicles do not have to contend with. A recent fatal motorcycle accident was caused by a buzzard colliding with the motorcyclist in Marlboro, Maryland. The man struck a low flying buzzard, lost control of his vehicle, ran a curb and collided with a fire hydrant. Police believe that he may have been speeding, which contributed to his losing control of his vehicle. Incidents like this one show that there is an increased unpredictability that comes with riding a motorcycle.

When a motorcycle accident is caused by another driver’s negligence, pursuing a personal injury lawsuit against the negligent party should be an avenue you consider. Recovering from an accident can be costly, considering medical treatment, the cost of repairs or a replacement vehicle, and the possibility of lost wages. When another driver puts you at risk because they are negligent or careless, they should be held responsible for their actions.

Contacting an experienced motorcycle accident attorney who can help you to develop an effective legal strategy should be one of your first moves following an accident. Your attorney can help you to determine the cause of the accident, which is not always clear, whether another individual is liable, or if other contributing factors were at play. Your motorcycle accident attorney will understand the laws regarding motorcycles in your state, and how to determine liability. Experienced attorneys also are familiar with the prevalent prejudices that some jurors and insurance adjustors can have against motorcyclists. Because motorcycle riding is often deemed “unsafe,” getting reasonably compensated for injuries can sometimes be a challenge.

Motorcyclists should always make sure to be properly trained, never operate a bike under the influence of drugs or alcohol, follow other vehicles at a safe distance, make sure their vehicle is properly registered, and be careful not to speed or act negligently. Not every motorcycle accident is the result of negligence on the part of another driver. Motorcyclists are oftentimes negligent as well, and put themselves at an even greater risk of becoming seriously injured.

St. Louis Motorcycle Accident Attorneys

All drivers should be diligent, but because they are at a greater risk, motorcyclists should take extra care on the road. If you are involved in an accident while riding a motorcycle, contact the Zevan and Davidson Law Firm immediately. After an accident you should contact an attorney before opening an insurance claim, discussing your case with anyone, signing anything or speaking with insurance agents. Finding an experienced motorcycle attorney will help to put your mind at ease and ensure that you get the compensation that you deserve.

Call Now (314) 588-7200 or schedule your free consultation.

photo credit: Allie Holzman