Motorcycle accidents can have serious consequences compared to car accidents.
They have a higher fatality rate and are more likely to permanently disable the rider because motorcycles are smaller and lighter than cars.
Some of the risks inherent in riding motorcycles include:
- Less visibility because motorcycles are smaller than cars;
- Road hazards such as water, ice, and debris are more likely to cause motorcycles to crash;
- The lack of seatbelts and airbags provides less protection than cars; and
- Inexperienced motorcycle riders are more likely to get into an accident because of the skill required to safely operate a motorcycle.
If you suffered injury from a motorcycle accident, you should contact a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible. A lawyer can help you overcome unfair stereotypes and recover the compensation you deserve.
How Much Compensation Can I Recover?
It may be difficult to recover the full amount of compensation you deserve for your motorcycle accident injuries. The negative connotations associated with motorcycle riders can reduce your recovery even if you suffered severe injuries.
For example, some jurors who don’t ride motorcycles are biased against motorcycle riders. Some may think motorcycles don’t belong on the road or that you assumed the risk of injury by riding a motorcycle.
False perceptions such as these may hurt your case and reduce your recovery. A personal injury lawyer can help you minimize the effect these perceptions can have on your case.
Will Insurance Companies Try to Deny My Claim?
Insurance companies are more likely to try to deny your claim because you were riding a motorcycle. A common argument insurance companies make in cases against motorcycle riders is comparative fault.
Comparative fault applies when you were partially at fault in causing your accident. Your damages award is then reduced by your percentage of fault.
The State of Mississippi follows the pure comparative negligence rule. This means that you can still recover compensation no matter how high your degree of fault. For example, if you are 90% at fault for your accident and suffered $100,000 in damages, you can still recover $10,000.
However, Arkansas follows the modified comparative negligence rule. Under the modified rule, if you were 50% or more at fault in causing your accident, you cannot recover any compensation for your injuries. A personal injury lawyer can help you determine how comparative negligence affects your case.
What Should I Do If I Am Involved in a Motorcycle Accident?
If you get into a motorcycle accident, you should seek immediate medical care. You should make sure to take photos of the accident, contact the police, and then contact a lawyer. Some examples of the injuries sustained during motorcycle accidents include:
- Concussion and brain damage,
- Broken bones,
- Soft tissue damage, and
- Facial disfigurement.
The motorcycle accident lawyers at Harris Law Firm will help you navigate the claims process and overcome the unfair stereotypes associated with riding motorcycles. Contact us today to schedule your free consultation.
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