It’s estimated that 80 percent of all motorcycle accidents in the United States end in injury or death. This translates into almost 2,000 motorcyclists who die in an accident and over 50,000 who are seriously injured in motorcycle accidents each year. If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident you may have questions about what your rights are. We’ve attempted to answer some of the most frequently asked questions relating to motorcycle accidents in this article.
Are motorcycle accidents different than car accidents?
In some states, there are different laws that apply to motorcycle accidents than car accidents. This is due to how a motorcycle is classified in that state. It’s important to seek out a qualified attorney who specializes in motorcycle accidents if you’ve been injured in an accident.
What types of damages am I entitled to if I’m in a motorcycle accident?
In many cases your medical expenses will be paid. These medical expenses can include hospitalization, physical therapy, reconstructive surgery, etc. You may also be eligible to receive compensation for property damage, lost wages, vocational rehabilitation, pain and suffering, and punitive damages.
What should I do if I’ve been in a motorcycle accident?
Even if you think you’ve suffered no injuries, seek medical attention as soon as possible. You may have internal injuries that could prove fatal if not treated in a timely manner. Second, try to get all the information you can about the accident, such as the police report and witness statements. Thirdly, do not sign or agree to anything with any of the drivers involved or any insurance companies until you have consulted with an experienced motorcycle lawyer that can protect your legal rights.
What if a loved one was killed in a motorcycle accident?
In such cases one or more of the family members may be entitled to file a claim for wrongful death depending on the circumstances of the motorcycle accident. If one of your loved ones was killed in a motorcycle accident, you should seek the assistance of a qualified attorney to protect your rights.
What is the statute of limitations?
The statute of limitations varies from state to state and it is the amount of time you have after a motorcycle accident to file a claim. If you do not file a claim within the statute of limitations you will be prevented from doing so in the future. That is why it is so important to consult an experienced lawyer as soon after the motorcycle accident as possible.
If you are injured or someone you love is killed in a
motorcycle accident that was caused by another driver's negligence, experienced
personal injury lawyers or
wrongful death attorneys can protect your legal rights.
