Indian Trail Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
The ebbs and flows of riding a motorcycle can be exhilarating for many, but unfortunately, this activity comes with inherent risks that can change one’s life in an instant. With so many motorcycles on the roads and highways of North Carolina, there are a variety of reasons why someone could find themselves involved in an accident. Drivers who do not give proper attention to their environment, those under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and roadway defects can all contribute to a crash.
When an accident happens, victims may be left with serious and permanent injuries as well as expensive medical bills and other costs. When you or someone you care for has been injured in a motorcycle crash, it is important to speak with an experienced Indian Trail motorcycle accident lawyer who can help you understand your rights and determine whether you may be entitled to receive compensation for your losses.
At Ayers, Whitlow & Dressler, our personal injury lawyers know what it takes to handle motorcycle accident claims and will fight for the justice you deserve. We are familiar with the complex legal issues involved in motorcycle crash cases and are prepared to help you pursue maximum compensation. In addition, our attorneys have the necessary resources and experience to take on large insurance companies and their teams of lawyers and will do whatever it takes to secure the compensation you need.
We provide compassionate legal counsel and representation throughout your case, giving you the peace of mind that comes with knowing you have an experienced lawyer fighting vigorously for your rights. Our goal is to help you earn the money you need to cover your medical expenses, lost wages, property damage, pain and suffering, and other losses. When you are ready to discuss your case with an Indian Trail motorcycle accident lawyer, connect with us for a case evaluation.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
When a motorcycle accident happens, it is important to understand what may have caused it. While every case is unique, some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents include the following:
- Speeding: Many motorcycle accidents happen because either the driver of the other vehicle or the motorcyclist was going too fast. The posted speed limits are designed to keep the roads safe, and when those limits are ignored, catastrophic accidents can occur.
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol: Operating a motorcycle while impaired by alcohol or drugs is illegal and can have devastating consequences. When those who make the decision to drive while impaired cause an accident, they may be held responsible for the damages caused.
- Distracted driving: Texting and emailing behind the wheel are all too common and can be dangerous. When drivers take their eyes off the road and fail to notice a motorcycle, they may be held liable if an accident occurs.
- Poor visibility: Motorcycles are much smaller than other vehicles on the road and, as a result, can be difficult to see. If a motorcyclist is struck because a driver did not see them in their blind spot or the driver did not see the motorcyclist on the side of the road, that driver could be held responsible.
- Roadway defects: Poorly maintained roads can be dangerous for motorists, especially motorcyclists. When potholes, cracks in the pavement, and other obstacles cause an accident, the responsible parties could be held liable.
- Fatigued driving: Drowsy drivers can be just as dangerous as those who are impaired. When a driver falls asleep behind the wheel or fails to notice a motorcycle because they are too tired to pay attention, they may be held accountable.
- Weather conditions: Inclement weather can make the roads slippery and reduce a driver’s visibility. In some cases, drivers may be held liable for an accident if they fail to take the appropriate precautions in wet or icy conditions.
- Reckless driving: Tailgating, failing to yield, and other reckless maneuvers can be hazardous for motorcyclists. When a driver fails to follow the rules of the road and causes an accident, they may be liable for any damages that result.
When any of these factors contribute to a motorcycle accident, the injured rider may be entitled to compensation. An experienced lawyer can investigate the circumstances of your case and determine who should be held responsible for your losses.
Potential Injuries Sustained From Motorcycle Accidents
Due to the lack of protection offered by a motorcycle, riders are particularly vulnerable when an accident occurs. Some of the most common injuries suffered by motorcyclists in a crash include:
- Head trauma, including concussions and traumatic brain injuries: Even with a helmet, a motorcyclist can suffer serious head injuries in an accident. These types of motorcycle accident injuries can have long-term consequences and require extensive medical treatment.
- Spinal cord injuries: The back and neck are particularly susceptible to injury in a motorcycle accident. If a rider sustains a spinal cord injury, they may be left with long-term paralysis or nerve damage.
- Fractures and broken bones: Depending on the severity of the accident, a motorcyclist can suffer broken bones. These injuries may require surgery and a lengthy recovery process.
- Soft tissue injuries: The impact of a crash can cause whiplash and other soft tissue injuries. Symptoms of these types of injuries may not appear for days or weeks after the accident.
- Internal injuries: Motorcyclists may suffer internal bleeding, organ damage, and other serious injuries in a crash. If left untreated, these injuries can be life-threatening.
- Emotional trauma: Even if a rider is not physically injured in an accident, psychological trauma can be devastating. Post-traumatic stress disorder and anxiety are common in motorcycle accident victims.
Even if you initially feel fine after a crash, it is important to seek medical attention shortly after the incident. Not all injuries may be immediately apparent, but they can still cause long-term complications. The best bet is to see a doctor and get checked out as soon as possible.
Compensation You May Be Entitled to After A Motorcycle Accident
If you’ve been injured in a North Carolina motorcycle accident that was caused by another’s negligence, you may be entitled to various levels of compensation for your losses. Depending on the severity of your case, you may be able to recover significant monetary damages for the following:
- Medical bills: Doctor’s visits, medications, physical therapy, surgeries, and other medical expenses can add up quickly. The party who is responsible for inflicting these medical costs should be held liable.
- Lost wages: If you cannot work due to your injuries, the at-fault party may be responsible for any wages or income you have lost during your recovery.
- Pain and suffering: In addition to physical pain, you may be compensated for the emotional distress or trauma you have experienced due to the accident. Symptoms of this could include depression, fear, and anxiety. To recover damages for pain and suffering, you must be able to prove that the at-fault party’s negligence caused your emotional distress.
- Loss of enjoyment of life: If the accident has significantly impacted your quality of life, you may be entitled to compensation for any joy or pleasure you have lost due to the accident. For example, if you can no longer participate in the hobbies or activities that you used to enjoy.
- Property damage: Your bike may have been damaged or totaled in the crash. The at-fault party may bear responsibility for paying for any damages to your motorcycle or other property.
It is important to remember that every case is different, and the amount of compensation you can receive will depend on various factors. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney can help evaluate your case and determine the damages you may be entitled to. It is important to speak with a motorcycle accident lawyer after the accident to ensure that your rights are protected. With timely legal assistance, you may be able to recover the valued compensation you need and deserve for your losses.
What Evidence Will You Need to File A Motorcycle Accident Claim?
To recover damages for a motorcycle accident, you must present evidence proving the at-fault party’s negligence caused your injuries. The evidence you will need to establish liability can include the following:
- Police report: These documents provide an official account of the circumstances surrounding the accident. Compelling information that may be included in a police report can consist of the time, date, and location of the accident, descriptions of any physical evidence, and contact information for witnesses.
- Witness statements: Witnesses can provide insight into the details of the accident. Their testimonies can be used to prove the cause of the accident and who was at fault. Some useful comments from witnesses may include the speed and direction of both vehicles, descriptions of the weather at the time, or if either driver was distracted.
- Medical records: Medical records can be used to prove the extent of your injuries and the amount of treatment you have required. They will also serve as a record of the costs associated with medical care.
- Photographs: Photos taken at the scene can provide useful evidence for proving who was at fault. Photos that can be helpful include pictures of traffic signs, skid marks, and damage to vehicles or property.
- Surveillance video: Surveillance footage can be used to prove the timing and sequence of events leading up to the accident. It may also help shed light on any distracted or reckless driving that may have occurred.
- Accident reconstruction: This is the process of recreating the accident scene to better understand what happened. Accident reconstruction specialists may use various tools and techniques, such as computer simulations, to better understand the crash.
It is important to remember that all this evidence must be collected and presented in a timely manner for the claim to be successful. An experienced Indian Trail motorcycle accident attorney can help you obtain and present all the necessary evidence to prove your case.
Tips For Motorcyclists After An Accident
Being involved in an accident can be a traumatic experience, especially if you are riding a motorcycle. Here are some tips to follow if you’ve been injured in an accident:
- Seek medical attention: Even if you do not feel injured, it is important to seek medical attention after an accident. Some injuries may not show symptoms immediately, so getting checked out as soon as possible is important.
- Do not admit fault: Do not admit fault or talk about the accident with anyone other than your personal injury attorney or the police. Anything you say can be used against you in court, so it is best to remain silent.
- Document the accident: Take photos of the vehicles and surrounding area, get contact information for witnesses, and keep all paperwork, including medical bills and police reports. All of this information will be useful in filing a claim.
- Exchange information: Make sure to get the other driver’s name, contact information, and insurance information. This is vital for filing a claim, as you will need to know who the at-fault party is and what their insurance policy covers.
- Contact an attorney: An experienced motorcycle accident attorney can help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights. They can also help you obtain the full compensation you need for your losses.
By following these steps, you can ensure that you are taking the right steps toward filing a successful motorcycle accident claim.
Contact a Motorcycle Accident Attorney at Ayers, Whitlow & Dressler Today
Motorcycles are supposed to be a fun and exciting way to get around, and while most riders take safety seriously, accidents do happen. From medical bills to missed work, the damages associated with a motorcycle accident can be extensive. It’s unfair to be stuck with all the costs if someone else is responsible, but you will need legal representation to make your case that someone else is at fault.
If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident, contact Ayers, Whitlow & Dressler today. We understand the unique challenges that come with filing a motorcycle accident claim, and our experienced attorneys are here to help you get the justice you deserve. We will work tirelessly to ensure you receive the maximum compensation for your losses.
Don’t wait to get the help you need. Contact Ayers, Whitlow & Dressler today.