In 2018, 4,985 motorcyclists were killed in crashes on U.S. roadways. While this was a 5 percent decrease from the previous year, motorcycle riders are still overrepresented in traffic fatalities.
Burg Simpson’s experienced motorcycle accident lawyers are here to help you recover the damages you deserve for your injuries and losses.
While motorcycle injuries share a lot of similarities with typical auto accidents, there are several unique characteristics that come into play when a motorcycle rider is injured due to someone else’s negligence. Even the most minor accident on two wheels has the potential to severely injure the rider. If you are a motorcyclist who has been injured in an accident, it is critically important that you seek the counsel of a trial lawyer experienced in motorcycle accident litigation.
The motorcycle accident attorneys at Burg Simpson have decades of experience handling complex lawsuits involving injuries and wrongful deaths that occur as a result of a motorcycle accident. We will take care of the claim so you can start putting your life back together. Call our team today at (888) 895-2080 or complete our FREE case evaluation form.
What Makes Motorcycle Accidents Different from Auto Accidents?
There are several factors that differentiate motorcycle accidents from other motor vehicle crashes, including:
- Injury rates: Motorcyclists are nearly five times more likely to be injured than other motor vehicle occupants.
- Fatality rates: Motorcycle riders are far more likely to die in an accident than anyone else, about 29 times more likely, in fact.
- Bias: Motorcyclists face bias from all sides. Whether it is from a jury or an insurance company, the assumption lingers that motorcyclists are simply more reckless than car or truck drivers. Because of this inherent bias, it is much harder for motorcyclists to receive fair treatment.
Motorcycle riders are not only less visible to other drivers, but they are also less protected from the force of an impact. So they are far more likely to be hit, and when they are, they are also more likely to be seriously injured.
If you have been injured because a driver’s negligence, reach out to an experienced motorcycle accident attorney today.
What Can I Do to Protect Myself as a Motorcyclist?
There are several ways motorcycle riders can protect themselves, such as:
- Wear a helmet: Despite increased awareness, better education, and much improved research and design, motorcycle helmet us has remained more or less the same for the past 20 years. Less than two-thirds of riders wear a helmet. It probably doesn’t help that only 19 states have universal helmet laws. Like child car seats, motorcycle helmets should always be replaced after an accident. Gloves and eyewear can also help.
- Be aware: Most motorcyclists are injured – or killed – because a car or truck driver was not paying attention to their surroundings, which is one reason why intersections can be so deadly. So motorcyclists have to be hyper-vigilant while riding and should always be on the lookout for unusual or sudden movements.
- Avoid distractions: Distracted driving kills. Riders should avoid any activity that takes their attention away from the road or their hands off the handlebars.
What Should I Do If I Have Been in an Accident?
If you have been in an accident, get medical attention before you do anything else. Even if nothing hurts, you could still have serious internal injuries that quickly get worse if they are not treated right away.
Second, gather all the information you can about the accident as soon as possible. Get the names and contact information for witnesses and identify everyone involved in the accident. Exchange insurance information with the other party involved, but do not admit fault to anyone. It is also a good idea to use your smartphone to take as many photos as you can at the scene.
Finally, do not sign anything or agree to any arrangements with other drivers or with insurance companies – even your own – before you consult with a motorcycle accident lawyer.
Burg Simpson’s Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Can Help
If you or a family member has been injured in a motorcycle accident, you need an experienced personal injury attorney to represent you. Burg Simpson has the experience, resources, and passion to help you recover the damages you deserve for your injuries and losses. Call one of our motorcycle accident lawyers today at (888) 895-2080 or fill out our FREE case evaluation form now.