There is nothing quite like riding a motorcycle.
But motorcycle riding can also be dangerous. Motorcycles are small vehicles, so it is easy for them to fall into blind spots. A car may try to get over without seeing them and run them off the road. People pull in front of motorcycles. There are real risks.
Motorcycles are also lightweight and offer little protection to the rider. If they get hit, the rider may be thrown with nothing to shield the driver, extensive injuries can occur.
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident due to someone else’s carelessness, having a good attorney on your side can help you get the maximum compensation you deserve. Jeffcoat Injury and Car Accident Lawyers are attorneys serving Orangeburg, South Carolina, and the entire state.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
There are many things that can cause a motorcycle accident. Here are some of the most common.
Following Too Closely
Many cars tailgate motorcycles. They don’t leave any extra distance and get right on top of them. When motorcycles stop short, they can easily be rear-ended by these reckless drivers.
Failing to Check Mirrors and Blind Spots
It’s easy for motorcycles to fall into drivers’ blind spots. If drivers try to get over and don’t see them, it could result in a sideswipe accident.
Misjudging Distance When Turning
It is common for cars to hit motorcyclists when they are trying to turn left. The motorcycle may be going straight through the intersection and try to pass it before it turns. In most instances, the car driver will be at fault for this type of accident. Exceptions will be applied if the motorcyclist was speeding or in the wrong lane.
Reckless Driving
If either a driver or motorcyclist is engaging in reckless behavior, an accident will be more likely to occur. Examples include speeding, driving under the influence, distracted driving, and not following traffic signs.
Motorcycle Lane Splitting
Motorcycles can also be blamed for accidents. If the motorcyclist is weaving in and out of lanes, it makes for dangerous conditions that increase the likelihood of a collision.
Debris in the Road
Debris on the road is a common cause of accidents. It can be especially hazardous for motorcycles that don’t have a lot of weight and can easily be thrown off balance if they hit a bump in the road. It’s not unusual for motorcyclists to fall if there’s debris in the road when turning a corner.
If an accident was caused by debris, the city or a contractor might be responsible. If a car hits the motorcyclist after he or she loses balance, they may be partially to blame.
Common Types of Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Motorcyclists don’t have the protection a car offers, and they are likely to sustain severe injuries after being hit. Here are the most common types of injuries that can occur.
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI’s)
- Lacerations
- Burns (including road burns)
- Internal organ injuries
- Scarring and disfigurement
- Broken bones
What to do Right After a Motorcycle Wreck
Motorcycle accidents aren’t always open and shut cases. The driver could be to blame, the motorcyclist could be to blame, or a third party was at fault.
There are things you can do immediately after the accident occurs that will help establish at-fault parties and provide evidence in the case. These are as follows:
- Take Pictures: If you are not too severely injured, use your cell phone to take pictures at the scene of the accident. Be sure to document all injuries and damage and take photos from lots of angles.
- Get Witness Information: If anyone was around that saw the accident, get their contact information. They may be able to testify on your behalf. Get the insurance cards and license plate numbers of any drivers involved as well. Don’t expect anyone else to do this.
- Call the Police: Even if the accident doesn’t immediately seem that serious, it’s always a good idea to call the police. What can seem at first like a minor accident can actually be the cause of real injuries. They will generate a report that can serve as a strong piece of evidence in your case.
- Get Medical Help: You may not think you are seriously injured, but injuries can worsen over time. If you hold off on getting medical care, at-fault parties may try to say that your injuries were not caused by the accident. If you get treatment right away, your provider will create a medical record that ties your injuries directly to the accident.
What Kind of Compensation Can I Get for a Motorcycle Accident?
Compensation will vary, but in general, here are the types of compensation you may qualify for:
Economic Damages
Economic damages include loss of wages & medical bills.
Noneconomic Damages
Noneconomic damages refer to any emotional or physical pain and suffering that reduces quality of life.
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages will come into play if the at-fault party exhibited behavior that is considered very reckless. They are meant to discourage the defendant from doing something similar again.
Why Jeffcoat Injury and Car Accident Lawyers could be the Best Choice for Your Orangeburg, SC Motorcycle Accident
There are many things that can come up in a motorcycle accident that will make the case complex. Therefore, it’s best to have a reliable lawyer on your side. Jeffcoat Injury and Car Accident Lawyers have years of experience handling motorcycle accident cases. A motorcycle accident can be life-changing. Don’t let dangerous people keep you from enjoying the things you love.
If you are considering getting a motorcycle, be sure to read up on the motorcycle licensing laws in South Carolina before making a decision.
