Motorcycle accident are a leading cause of death and injury in the United States. In 2020, there were over 5,000 fatal motorcycle accidents in the U.S., resulting in over 5,000 deaths and over 80,000 injuries.
Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
There are many causes of motorcycle accidents, but some of the most common include:
- Driver error: Motorcycle riders are more vulnerable to injury than car drivers, so even a minor mistake can have serious consequences. Some common driver errors that can lead to motorcycle accidents include speeding, driving under the influence, and not wearing a helmet.
- Bad weather: Motorcycles are less stable than cars, so they are more susceptible to being affected by bad weather conditions. Rain, snow, and ice can all make it difficult for motorcycle riders to control their vehicles, increasing the risk of an accident.
- Defective equipment: Motorcycles are complex machines, and even a small defect can lead to an accident. Some common defects that can cause motorcycle accidents include faulty brakes, tires, or steering components.
- Aggressive driving: Motorcycles are often seen as vulnerable by other drivers, which can lead to aggressive driving behaviors. Some drivers may tailgate, cut off, or otherwise endanger motorcycle riders.
What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident
If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, there are a few things you should do:
- Stay calm. It is important to stay calm after a motorcycle accident. This will help you think clearly and make good decisions.
- Check for injuries. Check yourself and your passengers for injuries. If anyone is injured, call 911 immediately.
- Exchange information. Exchange contact information with the other driver(s) involved in the accident. This includes their name, address, insurance information, and license plate number.
- Take pictures. Take pictures of the damage to your motorcycle and the other vehicles involved in the accident. This will help you document the accident for your insurance claim.
- File a police report. File a police report with the local police department. This will help you document the accident for your insurance claim.
Hiring a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, you may want to consider hiring a motorcycle accident lawyer. A motorcycle accident lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and options, and they can represent you in court if necessary.
How to Find a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
There are a few ways to find a motorcycle accident lawyer:
- Ask your friends, family, or coworkers for recommendations.
- Contact your state bar association.
- Search online for motorcycle accident lawyers in your area.
Tips for Finding a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Here are a few tips for finding a motorcycle accident lawyer:
- Get free consultations: Many motorcycle accident lawyers offer free consultations. This is a good way to meet with an attorney and ask questions about their experience and fees.
- Check with your insurance company: If you have motorcycle insurance, your insurance company may be able to recommend a motorcycle accident lawyer.
- Read online reviews: You can read online reviews of motorcycle accident lawyers to get an idea of their experience and reputation.
Conclusion
Motorcycle accidents can be devastating, but there are steps you can take to protect yourself. If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, you should seek medical attention immediately and contact a motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible. A motorcycle accident lawyer can help you get the compensation you deserve.
Additional Resources
- National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA): https://www.nhtsa.gov/
- Motorcycle Safety Foundation (MSF): https://www.msf-usa.org/
- American Motorcyclist Association (AMA): https://www.americanmotorcyclist.com/
