Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Motorcycle accidents are unfortunately commonplace, and a motorcycle accident lawyer often represents victims facing severe injuries and even fatalities. If you are in such an unfortunate situation, understanding the unique legal complexities involved is vital for receiving the justice you deserve. Cashio Injury Attorneys, LLC has provided some of the most complex issues that victims may find themselves experiencing when pursuing a motorcycle accident claim.
Determining Liability:
The first hurdle in any accident claim is establishing who is at fault. This task can be more complex in motorcycle accidents due to common misconceptions about motorcyclists’ reckless behavior. An experienced lawyer can help collect evidence, including police reports, witness statements, and accident reconstructions, to establish the other party’s liability firmly.
Comparative and Contributory Negligence:
Many states follow the rules of comparative or contributory negligence, meaning that the claim may be reduced or even denied if the victim is found partially at fault for the accident. For instance, not wearing a helmet may be viewed as contributory negligence, reducing your potential compensation.
Uninsured or Underinsured Motorist Claims:
If the at-fault party doesn’t have adequate insurance, you might need to file an uninsured or underinsured motorist claim with your own insurance company. This process often involves complex policy language and varying state laws, complicating an already stressful situation.
Product Liability:
In some cases, the motorcycle or another vehicle involved might have had a defect contributing to the accident. Here, a product liability claim can be filed against the manufacturer. However, proving such defects and the manufacturer’s negligence can be a formidable task requiring technical expertise.
Helmet Laws:
Helmet laws vary from state to state, and not wearing a helmet might impact your claim, even if it didn’t contribute to your injuries. While some states make helmet use mandatory, others only require them for specific age groups or have no helmet laws at all. Understanding these laws and their impact on your case is crucial.
Damages Assessment:
Determining the extent of damages in a motorcycle accident isn’t straightforward. It involves immediate medical expenses and repair costs, future healthcare costs, loss of earnings, pain and suffering, and emotional distress. Calculating these costs accurately is essential for ensuring fair compensation.
Insurance Company Negotiations:
Dealing with insurance companies post-accident is a complexity in its own right. Insurance providers often employ tactics to minimize the payout, such as disputing the severity of injuries, arguing over fault, or even suggesting that some treatment was unnecessary. It’s essential to be prepared for these tactics. A lawyer with experience in dealing with insurance companies can help ensure you receive fair compensation.
Statute of Limitations:
Every state has a time limit within which you must file your claim, known as the statute of limitations. It typically ranges from one to four years from the date of the accident, but specifics can vary, making it yet another factor to consider while filing your claim.
Impact of Criminal Charges:
If the at-fault party is charged with a crime related to the accident, such as DUI or reckless driving, it can significantly impact your civil claim. While a criminal conviction can strengthen your case, it requires different types of evidence and has different legal standards. Navigating these two separate but interconnected legal processes can be challenging.
Motorcycle accidents often lead to complex legal proceedings, demanding thorough understanding and experience. Given the complexities, consulting with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer who can guide victims through the process is advisable. Remember, understanding your rights and the intricacies involved is your best defense and the key to obtaining the compensation you deserve.