What Does a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Do?

While you may be able to handle an insurance claim on your own after a minor wreck, hiring a motorcycle accident attorney comes with numerous benefits.

Expertise
Motorcycle accident lawyers have in-depth knowledge of the laws and regulations surrounding personal injury cases. They can assess your claim’s strengths and weaknesses, anticipate potential obstacles, and craft a compelling case strategy.

Negotiation Skill
Insurance companies are notoriously difficult to deal with, especially after a motorcycle accident. They often use tactics to minimize payouts or deny claims outright. A skilled attorney can negotiate effectively with insurers, leveraging their experience and legal knowledge to fight for fair and just compensation.

Overcoming Biases
Insurance companies often hold biases against motorcyclists that can significantly impact the outcome of injury claims. Many insurers view motorcyclists as reckless risk-takers and may be quick to assign blame, even when the biker was not at fault. This prejudice can lead to lowball settlement offers or outright denials of legitimate claims.

Insurance adjusters may also exploit common misconceptions about motorcyclists, such as the false belief that lane splitting is always illegal or that riders who choose not to wear helmets are automatically negligent. These biases can make it an uphill battle for injured motorcyclists to secure fair compensation for their losses. That’s why it’s crucial to have a skilled motorcycle accident lawyer on your side who understands these prejudices and knows how to fight back against insurance company tactics.

Building Your Case
Building a strong case requires extensive investigation and evidence gathering. Motorcycle accident lawyers have access to a network of experts, such as accident reconstructionists and medical professionals, who can provide crucial testimony to support your claim.

Recovering from a motorcycle accident is stressful enough without the added burden of a legal battle. By entrusting your case to a capable attorney, you can focus on your health and well-being while they handle the complex legal work on your behalf.

In our decades of experience, we’ve seen countless causes of motorcycle accidents. These are the most frequent.

Negligent Drivers

Sadly, many motorcycle accidents are caused by the careless or reckless actions of other motorists. Distracted driving, speeding, failing to yield the right of way, and disregarding traffic signals are some examples of negligent behaviors that can have catastrophic consequences for motorcyclists. When another driver’s irresponsible actions cause you harm, a motorcycle accident lawyer can help hold them accountable and work to get you a fair settlement.

Road Hazards

Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable to road hazards that may pose little risk to car or truck occupants. Potholes, uneven pavement, loose gravel, and other dangerous conditions can cause motorcyclists to lose control and crash. If a defective road design or inadequate maintenance contributed to your accident, a skilled attorney can help you pursue a claim against the responsible government agency or contractor.

Defective Motorcycle Parts

In some cases, a motorcycle accident may be caused by a faulty or defective component, such as brakes, tires, or steering mechanisms. If a manufacturing or design defect played a role in your crash, a motorcycle accident lawyer can help you hold the responsible parties accountable through a product liability claim. At Rainwater, Holt, & Sexton, our attorneys have extensive experience taking on large corporations and fighting for the rights of consumers injured by dangerous products.

Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable to serious injuries in the event of a crash due to their lack of structural protection compared to occupants of passenger vehicles. While cars and trucks offer metal cages, seat belts, and airbags to shield occupants from the force of impact, motorcyclists are exposed and at risk of being thrown from their bikes or striking the ground, objects, or other vehicles.

This lack of protection means that even relatively minor collisions can result in catastrophic injuries for motorcyclists. When a rider is ejected from their bike, they may suffer injuries such as:

• Road rash and lacerations
• Broken bones and fractures
• Neck and back injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Spinal cord damage and paralysis
• Internal organ damage
• Amputations and disfigurement
• Psychological trauma, such as PTSD

Regardless of the severity of your injuries, you must seek immediate medical attention after a motorcycle accident (and take other crucial steps). Not only is this essential for your health and well-being, but it also creates a record of your injuries that will be valuable evidence in your legal case.

Remember: Symptoms aren’t always immediately apparent, and the road to recovery from injuries isn’t always smooth. An experienced personal injury attorney can ensure that your compensation reflects the full scope of your damages, so you don’t have to stress about money when an unexpected doctor’s appointment or medical procedure arises.