Motorcycle accidents are common throughout the United States. Motorists often view motorcyclists as irresponsible and reckless, but this is a misconception. The majority of motorcyclists are alert and responsive while traveling in both rural and urban areas. However, motorcyclists can seek financial compensation for their injuries when they are involved in a motorcycle accident.
Common Injuries Accident Victims Suffer During Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcyclists often suffer serious bodily injury or death during collisions with cars, trucks, and SUVs because motorcyclists are not surrounded by a protective barrier. It is important to recognize how vulnerable motorcyclists are and how difficult it is for motorcyclists to prevent accidents from occuring. The following are some of the most common injuries accident victims suffer during motorcycle accidents:
- Third-degree burns
- Amputations
- Fractured bones
- Internal organ damage
- Spinal cord injuries
A personal injury lawyer will be able to document your injuries and determine the total damages amount associated with your case. Motorcyclists often must undergo surgical procedures after suffering injuries during an accident, and they also tend to participate in physical rehabilitation and physical therapy to recover from their injuries.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents may be caused by many different factors. Sometimes a motorcyclist is responsible for causing an accident, but this is not always the case. The following are some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents:
- Negligent part manufacturers
- Careless maintenance technicians
- Loose equipment on the roadway
- Ignoring traffic signals and speeding
- Distracted driving
- Poor weather conditions
- Dangerous road conditions
Establishing the Liability of the Defendant In a Motorcycle Accident Case
Motorcycle accident cases are complex and it can be difficult to establish the liability of the defendant. Typically, an injured victim must prove the four elements of negligence, which are duty, breach, causation, and damages. Every person who operates a motor vehicle must do so as a reasonably prudent person under similar circumstances.
This means that the driver who breaches this duty, and the breach causes the accident victim’s injuries, will be liable for the damages claimed by the victim. Therefore, it is essential to have substantial evidence which will support proving the elements of negligence by a preponderance of the evidence.
It is also important to prove damages as you establish the liability of the defendant. Motorcycle accident victims may seek financial compensation for lost wages, medical expenses, property damage, and other losses. It is generally the case that damages are divided between special damages and general damages. However, sometimes punitive damages will be applicable in a motorcycle accident case depending on the facts of the case.
Contact Justin L. Mason Today to Schedule a Free Consultation
Suffering injuries during a motorcycle accident is a devastating experience. If you want to seek financial compensation for your injuries, then contact us today to schedule a free consultation. We can assist you with every aspect of your motorcycle accident case.
If your case does not settle then we will prepare for trial. You do not have to worry about your motorcycle accident case as you recover from your injuries. We have years of experience representing clients in motorcycle accident cases.