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Mississippi Motorcycle Accident Attorney Shares Suggestions for Safer Night Time Riding

A man recently died in a motorcycle accident on Highway 98. The accident occurred at night, like sixty percent of all motorcycle accidents do. This tragic accident is a sobering reminder that riding a motorcycle is more difficult at night than it is during the day, and extra caution is required to keep motorcycle riders safe after dark.

If you ride a motorcycle, you can reduce the risk that you will get into an accident while riding at night by using extra caution and by making yourself visible to other drivers. It is essential that riders use extra care when riding after dark because roads are not always well lit, which can make signs and pavement markings harder to see. Unfortunately, pedestrians and wildlife are also harder to see at night, and you may have less time to avoid them than you would if you were able to see them at more of a distance as you can during the day. You can ride more safely at night by reducing your speed to give yourself more time to react to the things that you see when you can see them.

Fog and rain can pose problems for motorcycle riders at any time of day, and especially at night because they not only reduce your ability to see, they make it harder for other drivers to see you. Fortunately, there are ways that you can increase the chance that other drivers will see you. Other drivers should always be paying attention and looking out for motorcycles, especially at night. When motorcycle riders take steps to increase the chance that drivers will see them, they reduce accident risk.

You can increase your visibility by putting fluorescent or reflective accents on your clothing and your helmet. You can even customize your bike with extra reflectors and other reflective materials. Good lighting can make it easier for you to see at night, and it also makes it easier for drivers to see you. When you are thinking about the lights on your bike, don’t forget your rear view – you can replace a small or dim brake light bigger and brighter. You can also add running lights to the front of your bike so that there are three lights instead of just one. For your headlight, choose a DOT-approved super bright bulb and raise your headlight to the maximum angle that state law allows.

Barrett Law PLLC:   Helping Mississippi Motorcycle Accident Victims and Their Families

Motorcycle accidents are more common at night than they are during the day. Riding at night can be fun if you remember to implement safe driving tips and make your motorcycle as visible as possible. If you got hurt in a motorcycle accident, it is essential that you contact an attorney right away. To learn about pursuing a claim for damages after a motorcycle accident or any other type of motor vehicle wreck, please call the knowledgeable Mississippi Motorcycle Accident Attorney at Barrett Law PLLC, at 1 (601) 790-1505 to set up an initial consultation.

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Negligence Another Hazard For Motorcycle Operators In Mississippi

It is no secret that riding a motorcycle presents its share of hazards. Motorcycle operators need to be just as conscious of other drivers as they are of the road ahead. However, just because a motorcycle accident occurs does not mean the motorcycle operator is at fault. Quite often, it is automobile drivers who are responsible for accidents involving motorcycles.

It is an unfortunate reality that motorcycle accidents continue to take place every year.  According to the National Department of Transportation, motorcycle fatalities saw a 7 percent increase in 2012. During that same year, a total of 4,956 people were killed in motorcycle crashes, while 93,000 people were injured.

One of the reasons for that increase is due to the recent rash of warmer temperatures. High temperatures invite more motorcycle enthusiasts out on the open road. Helmet laws also contribute to the growing number of motorcycle-related injuries. Nevertheless, in the state of Mississippi, helmets are required when riding a motorcycle. There are other statewide restrictions that are not as strict. Those lack of restrictions often contribute to the high number of crashes every year. Some of those looser restrictions are as follows:

  • No restrictions on handlebar height
  • No restrictions on helmet speakers
  • No required mirrors on right or left side
  • No required turn signals
  • No required eye protection

While those lack of restrictions pose potential harm to a motorcycle operator, they also provide them with leverage in a pending case. Motorists are responsible for a significant number of motorcycle accidents every year. Injuries sustained in motorcycle accidents range from minor to catastrophic. Some of the most common motorcycle injuries are as follows:

  • Broken bones
  • Neck injuries
  • Head injuries
  • Road burns

Helmets aim to reduce injuries as do other other riding accessories such as a riding jacket, gloves and other safety gear. Yet, there are still many hazards on every road that keep motorcycle riders vulnerable. Even in light traffic, the following hazards can pose a threat to motorcycle operators:

  • Decreased visibility – Cars can be seen much more clearly than motorcycles. Intersections, traffic and other cars can often hide motorcycles from other vehicles.
  • Hazards on the road – Debris and other objects in the road may be a mere speed bump for cars, but pose a more serious threat to motorcycles.
  • Lack of protective barrier – Drivers of cars are protected by the metal of a door, whereas motorcycle operators have nothing but the wind at their side.
  • Reduced stability – It is fact of science that four wheels are more stable than two. Motorcycles have only two wheels and their stability dims in comparison to that of cars.

These hazards make it easier for car operators to neglect motorcycles on the road. While many hazards could contribute to a crash, the primary reason car operators are responsible for motorcycle accidents is because of negligence. Mississippi law requires vehicle operators drive in a reasonably careful manner. If a person’s driving conduct is believed to have caused injuries, there is sufficient evidence to file a negligence claim.

Motorcycles have to be mindful of all the hazards that can cause them harm. They also need to be on the lookout for negligent drivers. That kind of negligence can bring victims financial compensation, but it can also make for a painful experience and grueling recovery.

If someone else’s negligence has caused you some kind of injury, the seasoned Mississippi Motorcycle Accident Attorney at Barrett Law PLLC can help you build a case. We can also seek out the financial compensation you deserve. Our experienced legal team will help you through the entire legal process and find  the best strategy to bring you justice. For a free and confidential consultation, contact one of our knowledgeable associates at (601) 790-1505.

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Fatal Accident Ends With Death of Motorcyclist

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One aspect of our lives that we heavily depend on is that of automobiles. In order to get our daily tasks, duties, and errands completed and done so in a timely manner we have to get behind the wheel of a vehicle and get on the road. From dropping the kids off at school, running to the office, or picking up the milk from the grocery store much of our daily lives is spent on the road attempting to get these and other errands accomplished. However, the road and driving also holds another aspect of our world, which is that of accidents.

Motorcycles On The Road Today

Today, many individuals not only in Mississippi, but other states own and operate motorcycles. In the past, motorcycles have been associated with danger and accidents on the road for many different reasons that all primarily deal with the actual individual operating a motorcycle. Usually, those individuals on motorcycles exhibit negligent and erratic driving behavior by weaving in and out of lines, going far above the speed limit, and disregarded traffic signs, and signals. While motorcyclists are primarily looked at the cause of some auto accidents in some cases they can easily be the innocent, and injured victims.

A Common Case Producing Common, Devastating Results

Recently, a motorcyclist was heading down the highway on a seemingly normal Mississippi Fall day. The 62 year-old cyclists was operating correctly in his lane when he was struck by a pick-up truck and thrown off of his vehicle. The pick-up truck at the time did not notice the cyclist and attempted to make a left turn, and in turn struck the cyclist. Emergency response units were called to the scene were they pronounced the 62 year-old cyclist dead. While these circumstances and cases are unfortunate they can occur every day whether you believe it or not.

While accidents are common in our lives the results are not always the same especially when they occur on the road. When you, or a loved one has been involved in an automobile accident of any kind whether or not it resulted in damage to your vehicle, or injuries were sustained you need an experienced, and dedicated automobile attorney by your side from start to finish.

At Barrett Law, our experienced Mississippi personal injury lawyers represent injury victims throughout Mississippi.  Our law firm has roots that reach back 75 years so contact us today for your free initial consultation at (662) 834-2376 to see how we can help.

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Fact: Helmet Laws Pertaining To Motorcycles Save Lives

When it comes down to safety we as a society are gearing more towards safety awareness and what we can do in order to avoid an accident. Today, safety warnings, and procedures are every where that you can think of whether it is on your microwave, on your gas tank, or even on some of your electronic devices; it is everywhere. However, also when it comes down to safety we are putting even more emphasis than ever on it and individuals on the road, especially when it comes down to that of motorcycles.

The Facts of Motorcycles

Typically, when we think of motorcycles we tend to jump to many stereotypes pertaining to the type of individuals who own, and drive these motor vehicles as well as their idea of safety. In the past, motorcycle safety has not been a large concern, but within the past decade has increased drastically. Today, all of the states within the United States now require motorcycle drivers and passengers to wear a safety helmet at all times while on these vehicles, which is punishable by the law. Yet, are these helmet laws pertaining to motorcycles actually doing any good out on the road?

“Stylin” Versus Safety

In the past, when the majority of states did not enforce motorcycle safety with that of helmet laws motorcycle accidents usually ended with a death, or severe injuries that would leave an individual affected for the rest of their life. These accidents also took a toll on the economy costing millions in health care, therapy, and road crews in order to clean up the accident that took place. However, since helmet laws have become active and required throughout the United States not only has the mortality rate decreased correlated to that of motorcycle accidents, but also motorcycle accidents as a whole?

Remember, when on a motorcycle regardless of whether you are operating the vehicle, or are the passenger make sure to wear a helmet at all times while on a motorcycle. However, when you are involved in a motorcycle accident you need an experienced auto accident attorney on your side in order to fight for your rights, your case, and your life from start to finish.

If you suffer any of these serious injuries because of an anesthesia mistake, our experienced Mississippi anesthesia medical malpractice lawyers are committed to assisting victims of substandard medical care obtain the financial compensation to rebuild their lives.  At Barrett Law, our experienced Mississippi personal injury lawyers represent injury victims throughout Mississippi.  Our law firm has roots that reach back 75 years so contact us today for your free initial consultation at (662) 834-2376 to see how we can help.

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Choosing a Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Because motorcycle accidents come with their own unique set of circumstances, choosing a qualified personal injury attorney with an extensive background in motorcycle accidents can be extremely important. Your chosen attorney must have a clear understanding of the issues surrounding a motorcycle accident including potential jury and police bias against motorcyclists. Unfortunately, there tends to be a stigma attached to motorcyclists that can be hard to overcome—many people believe that motorcyclists are inherent risk takers therefore the accident must have been the fault of the motorcycle rider.

In fact, the motorcycle riders today tend to be a much older group than in the past. Baby boomers make up over forty percent of motorcyclists and as a general rule these motorcyclists will use the same caution when driving a motorcycle that they do when behind the wheel of their car. Nonetheless your motorcycle attorney must be cognizant of the potential biases against motorcyclists and be able to overcome them at trial.

Motorcycle Attorneys Who Fully Understand the Situation

Next, your motorcycle accident attorney must fully comprehend the reconstruction of motorcycle accidents in order to definitively prove fault.  The attorney must then be able to present the case in such a way that the insurance carrier understands and accepts the motorcycle rider’s side of the case. The best motorcycle accident attorneys have important contacts with industry experts who will help present your case clearly in a courtroom, allowing you to get the settlement you deserve.

Your attorney will know how to work with your physicians in order to ensure you receive the best care for your injuries. This knowledge will extend to ensuring your physicians can present your case in the clearest manner to the jury so they will get a good sense of how much the accident altered your life.  The motorcycle attorney you choose will know that the case must be started immediately. In many cases it can take over twelve month to get to the point of a trial. Because of the lag in the court systems you don’t want to choose an attorney who allows your case to languish on his or her desk for a couple of years in the hopes it will settle without the necessity of a trial.  A motorcycle accident case can always settle your case after it is in the court system. On the flip side, if the case is not entered into the court system, it can be impossible to make up for lost time.

Experience Equals Maximum Settlement

Your motorcycle accident attorney will know how to best portray your motorcycle injury case in order to show everything that is owed to you so you will receive the maximum settlement. The best motorcycle attorney fully recognizes the expenses you may be entitled to include medical expenses—past, present and future—expenses for a rental car, repair and replacement costs for your motorcycle, lost wages, future loss of earnings and anything else the attorney feels may be applicable. Ask your prospective motorcycle attorney about his or her past cases and record for obtaining equitable settlements for clients. Your chosen attorney must be able to show how your injuries have affected your life on both a daily and a long-term basis. Each case has its own distinctive features and warrants the effort it takes to present it properly to the insurance company as well as a jury.

Issues to Consider

Following your attorney’s track record for success you must consider their level of investigative resources which are crucial to proving who was at fault in the accident. Whether distracted driving, excessive speed, drug or alcohol use or another action by the at-fault party were a factor, your attorney must be able to definitively prove those issues.  Finally you will want to ensure that clear, two-way communication between you and your attorney is present. Without this level of communication your case may not proceed smoothly. Choose your motorcycle accident attorney carefully and that choice will pay off in the end.

 

 

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Unique Factors in Motorcycle Accidents

Being involved in any type of accident can be traumatic, however those who find themselves victims of motorcycle accidents will most often end up with more severe injuries as well as a unique set of circumstances not experienced by those in auto accidents. Not only will the injured motorcyclist suffer, his or her family members are often victims as well. Because a motorcyclist has virtually no protection from a three thousand pound steel and glass auto other than a helmet and possibly protective clothing, the resulting injuries can be catastrophic.

Between 4000 and 5000 motorcyclists lose their lives each year in collisions with automobiles with another 100,000 plus being severely injured. While motorcycle helmets definitely save lives only a little more than half of all motorcyclists actually wear a helmet when they ride. In fact, helmets are estimated to be 38 percent effective in preventing fatal injuries to motorcyclists, yet many states have dropped their helmet laws, making the wearing of a motorcycle helmet voluntary rather than mandatory.

Factors in Motorcycle Accidents

There are a variety of factors involved in motorcycle accidents however first and foremost is the issue of reduced visibility. Auto drivers are notoriously lax in spotting motorcycles which leads to an increase in accidents.  Motorcycles are simply smaller visual targets and much more likely to be obscured by other vehicles as well as road and weather conditions. The number one area in which motorcyclists are hit by automobiles is in intersections as the driver of a car makes a left hand turn either not seeing the oncoming motorcyclist or misjudging the speed of the motorcycle.  Approximately seventy percent of motorcycle and automobile collisions occur in intersections. Drivers also fail to see motorcycles traveling in the next lane and will suddenly change lanes, sideswiping the motorcyclist.

Many times drivers also fail to see motorcyclists as they back from their driveway or parking space. Drivers also will open their doors into traffic causing the motorcyclist to either collide with the door or swerve dangerously in an attempt to miss it. Road hazards which a full-sized car may have no real trouble with can lead to a serious motorcycle accident. Pavement height changes which occur when the roads are being resurfaced or potholes which have not been repaired can cause serious issues for a motorcyclist. Inclement weather can also lead to motorcycle collisions particularly when fog or rain lessens the motorcyclist’s visibility even more than it normally is.

Statute of Limitations and Jury Bias

Depending on the state where the motorcycle accident occurred, the statute of limitations can be a significant factor in a motorcycle accident. Should the motorcyclist miss that window of opportunity, they will be barred from ever receiving compensation for their injuries and damages. In many states the statute of limitations in two years, but in some states it can be even less. State insurance laws can be significantly different from motorcycles to automobiles, so those involved in a motorcycle accident must consult with a knowledgeable personal injury attorney in order to receive equitable compensation for the negligence of another.

Finally, the motorcycle itself can become a factor in recovering compensation when a collision occurs. Unfortunately many jurors and even police officers have a bias against motorcycle riders, believing they are risk-takers and drive at excessive speeds. In reality, a large percentage of today’s motorcyclists are over fifty and ride their motorcycles with the same caution they exercise when driving an automobile.  It is very important that you meet with a skilled motorcycle accident in order to have your potential claim evaluated following a motorcycle accident.

 

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Lawsuits Involving Defective Motorcycle Parts and Equipment

When motorcyclists start out on a trip on their bike they expect that every component on the motorcycle will work as it was meant to do. When a motorcycle collision results from a defective motorcycle part it may be necessary for the motorcyclist to retain the services of an experienced personal injury attorney in order to receive reimbursement for injuries and damages.  The motorcyclist has the same rights when he is injured by a defective motorcycle part as he would if he were injured by a reckless driver. Suppose you were involved in an accident but were not really sure if it was caused by a defective part.

How Do You Know if Your Accident Was Caused by a Defect?

Some things that should make you suspect a defect include a malfunction on one of the tires—particularly if they are fairly new—strange wobbles or noises prior to the crash, a malfunction that appears to have no real reason or a crash which occurred in good weather and did not involve driver impairment or excessive speed. Motorcycles are meant to be designed with the rider’s safety in mind therefore any company that designs or produces defective or unsafe products must be held liable.  If you believe your motorcycle has a defective part or design following a crash, you must be able to prove three things in order to receive compensation for the defect.

You must prove the part was in fact defective, that it came to you that way and that it directly caused your injury or accident. Evidence is critical in a situation involving defective equipment or parts so you must ensure you keep every single part or piece as well as all instructions and labeling that came with your motorcycle. Your purchase receipt for the motorcycle or part as well as any injury or death documentation will all be necessary forms of evidence.

What Kinds of Defects are Most Common?

Any time a single piece of a motorcycle neglects to operate properly your entire motorcycle and your safety could be in serious jeopardy. This means that a tire defect, a problem with the braking system, tires or transmission and engine could lead to a collision and subsequent injuries. In the same way, a motorcycle helmet which is defective can cause grave or fatal injuries in the event of an accident.  Other types of defects can include shock absorber failure, stuck throttles, failure of the chain, improper dealer assembly or defective pedals and toe clips. Some of the most common defects on motorcycles include handlebar defects which cause wobbling and uncontrollable shaking, rear tire defects which causes imbalances due to misalignment and fuel line defects which cause fires and overheating.

Injuries From Motorcycle Accidents

Once a motorcycle accident occurs it is likely that very serious injuries will be sustained. Brain trauma, serious road rash, disfigurement, spinal cord injuries which lead to paralysis, internal injuries and fractures are some of the more common injuries suffered by motorcyclists involved in an accident which is due to a faulty motorcycle part. Manufacturers must be held accountable when they are responsible for manufacturing a defective or dangerous product. If your accident was directly caused by a defective motorcycle part you must get qualified legal assistance. These cases can be very complex and require an attorney who has significant background and experience with motorcycle cases and product defect cases. Don’t let too much time pass before speaking with a qualified lawyer regarding your options.

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Motorcycle Accidents Caused by Following Too Closely

Over 80,000 motorcyclists are injured in traffic crashes with thousands of fatalities. In as many as three-quarters of all accidents in which a motorcycle and a passenger car were involved, the motorcyclist was not at fault. There are many specific causes of motorcycle accidents however the primary cause is simple lack of visibility coupled with drivers of passenger vehicles who don’t take the extra time and caution to look for motorcyclists sharing the roadways. A fairly large portion of motorcycle accidents occur in intersections and when vehicles either back out of their driveway or a parking space at a store.

Drivers often misjudge the speed and distance of an oncoming motorcyclist, making a left-hand turn directly in front of the motorcyclist. The motorcycle rider is unable to stop or make any type of defensive maneuver therefore slams directly into the side of the car. Other times vehicles will change lanes on freeways or in the city without looking for a motorcyclist, sideswiping the motorcycle rider and sending him careening into other traffic. In the vast majority of motorcycle accidents the motorcyclist’s right-of-way has been violated although there are instances in which excessive speed or an inexperienced motorcycle driver can lead to an accident as well.

Following Too Closely and Driver Distraction

Many motorcyclists end up being hit from behind from a vehicle which is following much too closely. These accidents are either caused by reckless or aggressive drivers who are impatient and in a hurry and simply want the motorcyclist to get out of their way or they are caused—like many other accidents—by driver distraction. Driver distraction is a major cause of all auto accidents and can come from many sources.

Despite the latest legislation in many states drivers still talk on their cell phones and even text while they are supposed to be driving. Texting has been deemed to be almost as dangerous as driving while impaired, yet drivers continue to engage in this extremely dangerous behavior. Drivers have been known to read a map, read a book, apply makeup or turn around to swat the leg of a misbehaving child while they are driving. Still others fiddle with their radio, listen to music on headphones, try to change the settings of their GPS, look at what’s happening on the side of the road, chat with their passengers or simply daydream when they should be driving.

Why Motorcyclists Must Drive Defensively

Any of these behaviors can be deadly when an unprotected motorcyclist is ahead of the driver and whatever distraction the driver is laboring under causes them to neglect seeing the motorcycle who has come to a stop in front of them. Motorcyclists are not nearly as likely to engage in distracted driving and must drive defensively to avoid being hit by a distracted or negligent driver. Motorcyclists involved in an accident with an automobile will likely be severely injured or even killed.

Broken bones, spinal cord damage, traumatic brain injuries, varying degrees of paralysis, road rash which leads to infection and disfigurement are only a few of the extremely serious injuries a motorcyclist can sustain when a driver who is following too closely rams into the back of the motorcycle. Because motorcycle accidents generally come with a different set of complexities, it’s important that a motorcyclist injured by a driver seek highly experienced legal counsel. It’s time to concentrate on healing while your attorney concentrates on aggressively advocating for your future.

 

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What are the Odds of Surviving a Motorcycle Accident?

The sheer size difference between a motorcycle and an automobile are the first danger to a motorcyclist during an accident, while the second is the fact that the motorcyclist is extremely vulnerable due to lack of any protection other than possibly a helmet and protective clothing. The driver of an automobile has the advantage of a heavy steel cage surrounding them as well as safety equipment such as airbags and seat belts. Motorcycle accidents are among the most disastrous collisions on the road yet because of certain biases against motorcyclists they may not get the compensation they fully deserve after being struck by a negligent or distracted driver.

The Dangers of Driving a Motorcycle

Motorcycle riders involved in crashes with automobiles are nearly forty times more likely to die and at least eight times more likely to be seriously injured than the passengers and driver of the passenger car. Distracted drivers are a huge factor in motorcycle accidents and, actually, all accidents. Our increasingly busy lives have led to drivers who get behind the wheel and engage in a variety of behaviors other than actual driving. They may be watching what’s happening on the side of the road, reading billboards, checking their makeup, reading a map, trying to find a radio station they like, talking on their cell phone or worse, texting, or scolding the children in the back seat. Whatever they’re doing, it’s not paying attention to those around them and this inattention can lead to tragedy.

Taking the Extra Time to Ensure the Motorcyclist is Seen

While the smaller motorcycle may be more difficult to spot, drivers have a responsibility to spend an extra few seconds ensuring they are not about to crash into a vulnerable motorcyclist who is doing nothing wrong, and following all rules of the road. Many motorcycle accidents occur in intersections when a car makes a left-hand turn, seriously misjudging the speed and distance of an oncoming motorcyclist. The rider of the motorcycle has absolutely no choice but to slam into the side of the car which will obviously lead to extremely serious injuries or death. Drivers often change lanes on a freeway or city street without taking the time to look for motorcyclists or back out of driveways or parking spaces looking only for other cars.

Motorcycle accidents can also be caused by road hazards which have little impact on the automobiles on the road. While a deer can damage a car it is unlikely to kill the driver. On the other hand when a motorcyclist slams into a deer the consequences can be deadly. Minor differences in road height, potholes or debris in the road can be relatively harmless to the driver of an automobile yet can lead to extremely serious accidents for the motorcyclist. Weather conditions are also a factor in motorcycle accidents; a motorcyclist sliding across an icy or slick road can lead to an impact with another vehicle or a fixed object such as a tree.

Getting Legal Help Following Your Motorcycle Accident

Those who have been involved in a serious motorcycle accident should immediately contact a knowledgeable personal injury attorney who is highly skilled in motorcycle accidents in particular. Because motorcycle accidents are typically much more complex than auto accidents, it’s essential that an experienced attorney advocate on your behalf to obtain equitable compensation for your injuries and damages.

 

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Mistakes That Can Hurt Your Motorcycle Accident Case

Motorcycle collisions are among the most dangerous type of accidents with over 3,000 fatalities and 50,000 injuries among motorcyclists in the United States each year. Those motorcyclists who routinely use their cycle as their primary form of transportation are thirty-seven times more likely to die in a collision than automobile passengers or drivers.  The reason motorcycle riders are most often either grievously hurt or killed upon collision with an automobile is mainly because of the complete absence of protection around the motorcycle rider.  Those inside an automobile have at least a modicum of protection in the form of the metal cage enclosing them as well as the safety features incorporated into most automobiles such as seatbelts and airbags.

The motorcyclist has only a helmet—if worn—and perhaps leather leggings which could possibly lessen road rash injuries. Further, due to the stigmas attached to motorcycle riders by many people, trying a case in which a motorcyclist was involved can be quite complex. Juries may tend to assume the motorcycle rider was at fault simply by virtue of their perception of those who drive motorcycles as aggressive risk-takers. Actually, the overwhelming majority of motorcycle accidents are not the fault of the motorcyclist, yet the cards may be stacked against you from the beginning. There are several things you can do to avoid making mistakes which will further jeopardize your case.

Never Sign Anything

Insurance companies almost never have your best interests at heart despite the abundance of television insurance commercials showing friendly, compassionate people who only want to help. The insurance company is interested in one thing—their bottom line. Because of this, insurance adjusters are trained to use any tactic possible to get you to settle for less than you deserve. Until you have legal counsel in your corner, do not talk to an insurance adjuster and never sign anything the insurance company asks you to.

Never Discuss Your Injuries on the Internet

As tempting as it may be to post pictures of your injuries on Facebook or tweet your friends about your accident–resist the urge. Further, once you begin healing continue to resist that urge. Insurance companies are trained to check for information about your injuries everywhere they can. Should you post a photo of yourself horseback riding with your family two weeks after your reportedly-serious motorcycle accident and could hurt your claim. Try to avoid talking about your case to anyone other than your lawyer if at all possible.

Don’t Neglect Documenting Your Injuries

One of the primary ways accident cases can go awry is simply from lack of organized documentation.  From the time your accident occurs you must be vigilant in documenting every single issue surrounding the accident and your subsequent injuries. Have someone take photographs of your injuries and write down everything you could do prior to the accident but are now unable to do—whether temporarily or permanently. Keep every medical receipt including those for prescriptions, therapy, chiropractors—basically any and every receipt which has to do with your accident. A daily journal will help you remember details you might otherwise forget over time.

Never Miss Doctor’s Appointments

Even if you have a really good reason, missing a doctor’s appointment will give the impression that you are simply looking for an insurance handout rather than doing your best to heal. Be on time for your appointments and follow any advice given you by your physician.

Finally, hire an attorney at the earliest possible time. Trying to handle your motorcycle accident injury case is a huge mistake as most of these cases are practically impossible to navigate without legal assistance. The highly experienced motorcycle accident attorney will understand the particular mechanics of motorcycle operations as well as the dynamics of the accident. The aftermath of a motorcycle accident is difficult and anxiety-producing. Let a knowledgeable motorcycle attorney take some of the worry from you, allowing you to heal.

 

 

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