Motorcycle Accidents
Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Accidents
Q: I was hit by another vehicle while riding my motorcycle. What should I do?
A: First and most importantly, seek medical attention if you were injured in any way, even if you are not in pain, because it is possible you many not feel pain until a day or two after the accident. If there were witnesses to the accident, get their names and contact information. In addition, take photographs of the accident scene, your injuries and any damage to your motorcycle or other property. Finally, contact an attorney who has experience with personal injury cases, specifically motorcycle accident cases, to discuss your legal options for recovery.
Q: What can I receive for my injuries?
A: Every case is different. The exact type and amount of compensation you might receive depends on the facts of your case. As a general rule, you are entitled to recover damages for: medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, future medical expenses, probable loss of wages in the future, property damage, loss of relationship with your spouse and other out-of-pocket expenses due to your injuries.
Motorcycles offer little protection to riders in the event of an accident. If you or a loved one has been seriously injured in a motorcycle accident, call today to schedule a consultation with an attorney who handles motorcycle cases to discuss your options for obtaining compensation.
Motorcycle Accidents – An Overview
Riding motorcycles is a popular activity and motorcycle registrations are on the rise. Despite their popularity, the inherent nature of motorcycles makes riding them a potentially dangerous undertaking. Unlike cars and other vehicles, motorcycles offer drivers and passengers no protection. There is nothing between the rider and the open road other than the clothes the rider is wearing and possibly a helmet. Thousands of motorcyclists are killed in accidents each year, and tens of thousands more are injured. If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact Johnson, Mulholland, Cochrane, Cochrane, Yung & Engler, P.L.C. in Fort Dodge, Iowa, to schedule a consultation with a personal injury attorney who can explain your legal options.
Common Causes Of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents, like all accidents involving motor vehicles, can be caused by a number of different factors. While an accident can be the fault of the motorcycle driver, many times other drivers cause accidents involving motorcycles. Because of a motorcycle’s relatively small size, many drivers of passenger cars and trucks do not see motorcyclists. Even if they check their mirrors before changing lanes or turning, the motorcycle may be in the car’s blind spot, and an accident may result.
Motorcycle Litigation Basics
If you or a loved one has recently been injured in a motorcycle accident, you may have many questions about your legal options. You may have never been involved in a lawsuit before and not know where to start. The following information provides a general overview about motorcycle accident cases.
Motorcycle Defects And Recalls
A defect in a motorcycle or one of its parts can cause serious accidents. A defective helmet might not provide the protection it is intended to, resulting in more serious head injuries. A defect in the brakes may not allow you to stop in time to avoid an accident. If you suspect that your motorcycle has a dangerous safety defect, you can report this defect to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, a federal agency tasked with investigating alleged defects, issuing safety standards for vehicles and ordering manufacturers to recall vehicles that do not meet federal safety standards.
Helmet Laws
Many states have mandatory helmet laws that require motorcycle drivers and passengers to wear helmets while operating or riding on a motorcycle. These laws generally specify the type of helmets that have been approved for use by a state agency.
Motorcycle Accidents Resource Links
American Motorcyclists Association
An organization that pursues, protects and promotes the interests of motorcycle enthusiasts.
Bikers Rights Online
Devoted to motorcycle riders’ rights, this site includes articles, studies and a review of helmet laws that is searchable by state.
Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety site features vehicle ratings, safety facts and publications.
Motorcycle Consumer News
An advertising-free, multi-faceted resource for the motorcycling public.
Motorcycle Riders Foundation
A motorcyclist rights organization based in Washington, D.C.