Motorcyclists are more susceptible to serious injury than most drivers, and it’s usually not their fault. In many cases, other drivers fail to respect their right of way, cut them off, or behave aggressively. The motorcyclist can suffer life-changing injuries as a result, but help is available. The Greenville, North Carolina motorcycle lawyers at Irons & Irons, P.A. can guide you through every step of the process. We’ll help with insurance claims and fight for you in court to get the compensation to help you recover.
What’s the Difference Between a Motorcycle Accident and a Car Accident?
From a legal standpoint, motorcycle accidents might not seem different from car accidents. However, there are many important nuances between the two. Responsibility and the severity of injury are highly lopsided, and motorcycle accidents often have unique legal ramifications.
Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Greenville
Other drivers bear responsibility for most motorcycle accidents. According to an article from the Huffington Post, the usual cause is other drivers violating right-of-way or illegally cutting off motorcyclists. Another unique factor is that motorcyclists are especially likely to suffer an accident involving alcohol. Alcohol plays a role in 29% of general driving fatalities and 33% of motorcycle fatalities.
Injuries Sustained
Motorcycle riders only represent 3% of all registered vehicles. However, they account for 14% of all traffic fatalities. This is the tip of the iceberg, as motorcyclists are also at greater risk for serious injuries of all types. Some types of severe injuries motorcyclists suffer include:
- Spinal cord and neck injuries: These injuries can lead to paralysis or long-term mobility issues.
- Traumatic brain injury: Head injuries can result in long-term cognitive impairments. Even when treating these injuries is possible, it calls for extensive rehabilitation.
- Skull fractures: Skull fractures can cause lasting disability and brain damage.
- Broken bones: Fractures often require surgery and prolonged recovery periods.
Legal Ramifications
Approximately 36% of motorcycle drivers involved in fatal crashes lack special licensing to ride a motorcycle. Many unlicensed motorcyclists survive serious accidents but hesitate to seek legal help. While it’s wrong to drive without proper licensing, that doesn’t disqualify you from seeking damages through legal action. However, it’s a factor your lawyer will have to account for in court. Knowing the intricacies of North Carolina motorcycle laws is a must.
Damages Available in Motorcycle Accidents
Compensation for motorcycle accidents can vary widely based on the severity of the injury. Understanding the types of damages available is crucial for ensuring comprehensive compensation.
Personal Injury Motorcycle Accidents
In personal injury motorcycle accidents, victims can pursue compensation for various damages. This includes economic, non-economic, and punitive damages. Together, these damages should fully address the impact of the accident on the victim’s life and punish the defendant’s wrongdoing.
- Non-economic damages: Non-economic damages cover the intangible costs of an injury. These include pain and suffering, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life.
- Economic damages: Economic damages cover tangible financial losses, such as medical expenses, lost wages, and property damage.
- Punitive damages: Courts award punitive damages in cases where the defendant’s behavior is particularly egregious. These aren’t pinned to the victim’s losses but are instead a form of restorative punishment.
Wrongful Death Motorcycle Accidents
Wrongful death claims arise when a motorcycle accident results in the fatality of a rider. Families of the deceased can pursue compensation for their emotional losses, expenses, and future lost income. The heightened danger of motorcycle accidents makes these cases tragically common and vital to those the motorcyclist left behind.
For personal injury or wrongful death lawsuits, you can turn to Irons & Irons, P.A. We’ve secured seven-figure settlements in wrongful death cases and have a first-class track record of success and professionalism.
Choose an Experienced Greenville, North Carolina Motorcycle Lawyer
Motorcycle crashes are uniquely likely to produce lasting injuries or death. Whether you’re an injured driver or your loved one passed away in a motorcycle accident, a successful personal injury case can ease some of the costs. However, giving yourself the best chance to win calls for the assistance of a Greenville, North Carolina, motorcycle lawyer.
At Irons & Irons, P.A., we’ve handled many motorcycle accident cases for our clients. We know how best to handle your case and how to get you the full compensation you deserve. Take the first step to justice—contact us today by calling (252) 215-3000 or schedule your free consultation.