According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there are more than 88,000 motorcycle accidents each year in the United States.
Motorcyclists are vulnerable to injuries during an accident, and those injuries are likely to be serious. With these high accident statistics, it is important that motorcyclists understand their legal rights while operating their motorcycle. In the case of an accident, motorcyclists should also be familiar with the process of a motorcycle accident lawsuit so that they can be compensated for another driver’s negligence.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Riding Skills
Operating a motorcycle is vastly different, and more technically challenging, than operating another type of vehicle. Just like riding a bicycle, motorcycle riding skills are developed over time with diligent practice.
Many accidents occur due to a new rider’s lack of skill. The best way to combat this common cause of a motorcycle accident is to practice and enroll in training at a local motorcycle course. This will allow motorcycle riders to be more confident and experienced once they decide to hit the open road.
Visual Recognition
Motorcycles are much smaller than other motor vehicles, like cars and semi-trucks. Often times, another vehicle on the road may not notice a motorcycle, thus causing an accident. This is especially true in intersections, which is where nearly 70% of all motorcycle automobile accidents occur.
Roadway Hazards
Any hazard on the roadway, such a pothole, blown tire, debris, etc., is a minimal threat to a normal automobile. For motorcycles, however, these hazards are often the cause of accidents. Common accidents from hazards are either due to a motorcyclist running into the object, trying to avoid the object only to hit another vehicle, or sliding off the road.
What To Do After a Motorcycle Accident
Seek Immediate Medical Attention & Call The Appropriate Authorities
This is the most important thing you can do for those involved in the accident. A police report is crucial in the aftermath of an accident, and most importantly, so is seeking the correct medical treatment. If anyone involved in the incident requires ambulatory services, call 911 right away.
However, the police should always be notified regardless of the state of health of anyone involved in the crash.
Take Photos of The Accident Scene
This might seem trivial in the aftermath of a crash, but documenting the events of the crash and capturing an accurate portrayal of the accident scene can prove to be extremely important once insurance companies come on the scene. Remember to take photos of all the cars involved.
Get The Other Parties’ Insurance Information
Obtaining the other party’s insurance information is a vital component of an auto accident. Knowing whether the other vehicle is insured, and who the insurance provider is, can make the process run more smoothly.
Seek The Advice of an Attorney
The aftermath of a car crash is incredibly overwhelming, and you should not be burdened by getting into the nitty-gritty of insurance policies, medical records, and medical bills. Your only role should be the recovery of you and your family. Call a professional, and let them do all the work, while you and your family focus on your health.
Talk to a Missouri Personal Injury Attorney Today!
Sticklen Dreyer Tinney serves personal injury and accident victims throughout the state of Missouri, including, but not limited to, Joplin, Springfield, and Columbia MO. If you are involved in a car accident, our experienced personal injury lawyers can help you. Get the representation and compensation you deserve.