Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle operators are far more vulnerable to injuries than other motorists, who have a greater degree of protection within an automobile or other vehicle. Consequently, a motorcycle accident can be catastrophic and fatalities are not uncommon.

Motorcyclists are also victims of an unspoken but very real prejudice—a very perceivable “You-asked-for-it” attitude—that is widespread among law enforcement officials who are called to the scene of an accident, insurance adjusters who investigate motorcycle accident claims, and jury members who must decide a victim’s fate in court.

Motorcycle Accident Information and Statistics You Should Know:

• According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 4,008 motorcyclists were killed and another 76,000 riders were injured in accidents in 2004 (the latest statistics available).
• The NHTSA also reports that motorcycle riders are 32 times more likely than automobile passengers to die in a motor vehicle accident and six times more likely to suffer serious injuries.
• One out of every five motorcycle accident victims suffers head and neck injuries.
• In a nationwide study of motorcycle accidents, it has been determined that most crashes occur on short trips (five miles or less) and at speeds of less than 30 miles per hour.

Understanding the Law

Insurance laws and regulations in the state in which you reside may be different for motorcyclists and automobile operators. It is critical to review your insurance policy to understand your rights and responsibilities and to determine the proper protocol you must follow if you are involved in an accident. By not following the specific instructions set forth by your insurance company or within your state, your claim could be denied.

Are You a Motorcycle Accident Victim?

There are six essential steps that you must take if you are involved in a motorcycle accident:

1. Secure the names, addresses, and telephone numbers of all witnesses.
2. Record the date, time, and exact location of the accident, as well as road conditions, weather, and other factors that may have played a role in the crash.
3. Arrange to have photographs taken of all injuries, property damage (including your motorcycle, helmet, and clothing), and the scene of the accident.
4. Seek medical attention, if necessary. Save copies of all hospital, physician, and pharmacy bills that will support your case if you submit an insurance claim or pursue legal action.
5. If other drivers were involved in the accident, obtain appropriate license, registration, and insurance information.
6. Report the accident to your insurance company.

A Word of Advice

Legal experts recommend that if you are involved in a motorcycle accident, it is best to refrain from speaking to law enforcement officials other than at the scene of the accident and to avoid all communication with a representative from another driver’s insurance company if you intend to hire an attorney.

Why You Need a Personal Injury Lawyer

Depending on the specific circumstances of the accident, a motorcycle crash victim may be entitled to reimbursement of current and future medical bills and/or lost earnings, as well as compensation for property damage, accident-related, out-of-pocket expenses, and even pain and suffering. Punitive damages may also be awarded if another driver was involved and his or her negligence caused the accident or wrongful death.

The accident victim, however, must be able to provide proof of the extent of damages and injuries he or she has sustained. This is difficult to do without a qualified legal expert who is experienced in handling motorcycle accidents and injuries and is knowledgeable about state laws and insurance company regulations that can impact the outcome of the case.

A competent personal injury attorney will research your rights, work with you to prepare your claim or legal case, and assist you in receiving maximum compensation.

To find a skilled lawyer in your community who specializes in motorcycle accidents, please enter your city name in the grey search box at the top of this page.

THIS IS NOT LEGAL ADVICE - PLEASE CONSULT WITH AN ATTORNEY REGARDING YOUR SPECIFIC CASE