Summerville Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Summerville Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Riding a motorcycle can be an exhilarating experience, especially in warmer, welcoming weather. However, when a motorcyclist gets into an accident, the results can be sudden and catastrophic. When someone suffers injury in a motorcycle accident, a Summerville motorcycle accident lawyer can help fight for the personal injury compensation they need for their recovery.

Understanding Motorcycle Accidents

Learning how motorcycle accidents occur should start with understanding the inherent vulnerability of motorcyclists. There is no protective frame around a motorcycle like there is with a passenger vehicle. Riders are much more exposed to the impact of a collision. Motorcycles are smaller and less visible to other drivers, and are more susceptible to road hazards, weather conditions, and other driver actions.

There were 5,932 fatalities among motorcyclists in 2021, which made up 14% of all traffic deaths based on data from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA). Traffic data also indicates that 82,686 motorcyclists sustained injuries during accidents throughout 2021; 161 of these occurred in South Carolina.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents can be caused by a number of reasons. Even minor accidents that wouldn’t cause much, if any, harm to a car could be catastrophic for a motorcycle. Some common causes of motorcycle accidents include:

• Road hazards. Both small and large hazards can be difficult for motorcycles to navigate. For instance, a simple pothole will rarely cause damage to a car, but for a motorcycle, there is an increased risk of a serious accident. Road hazards include potholes, debris, uneven pavement, and freshly painted lines.
• Lane splitting. Lane splitting happens when a motorcyclist rides between two lanes in traffic, mainly to avoid traffic jams. This is dangerous because drivers do not anticipate seeing riders in between lanes, so if traffic continues moving and a car changes lanes, it is a risk that the motorcyclist will get hit. Summerville motorcycle accident laws make lane splitting illegal.
• Rider errors and behaviors. Speeding is one of the most common reasons for motorcycle accidents, and it significantly increases the chance of a serious accident.

Understanding these causes is important in helping prevent accidents from happening. When you hire a motorcycle accident lawyer in Summerville, they can investigate the cause of your accident to help build your case.

Factors That Influence a Motorcycle Accident Settlement

A variety of factors can influence the amount of a motorcycle accident settlement. One of the most significant is clear liability. If the fault is obvious, a claimant is in a better position to negotiate a favorable settlement.

Another factor is the extent of the injuries involved. Catastrophic injuries, like traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and permanent disability, will result in a higher settlement offer. Another factor is available insurance. If a defendant has minimal coverage, they may be limited in how much they can pay a claimant.

Even in the event of a catastrophic injury, if the defendant has only limited liability insurance, a settlement may be small. Evidence is another factor. A strong evidence case can help a plaintiff receive compensation, despite common bias against motorcyclists.

Why Hire a Motorcycle Lawyer?

Working with a motorcycle accident lawyer can greatly benefit your case. Experienced attorneys understand the complexities of motorcycle accident claims and can guide you through the legal process.

They provide assistance in collecting evidence while working through insurance negotiations to secure just reimbursement for your medical costs and lost income, plus pain and suffering. Motorcycle lawyers are also trained to deal with disputes about who is to blame for the accident and can represent you in court if needed. Hiring an experienced lawyer can protect your rights and increase your chances of a successful settlement or verdict.

About Axelrod & Associates, P.A.

The attorneys at Axelrod & Associates, P.A., deliver legal representation in personal injury cases and motorcycle accident claims, together with workplace injury claims, backed by 100 years of combined professional experience. We are conveniently located near the Charleston County Courthouse and represent clients throughout the area, including Summerville, Pawleys Island, Myrtle Beach, and beyond.

We work to protect our clients’ legal rights and advocate on their behalf, including in complex negotiations with insurance companies and holding negligent parties accountable, to help them obtain the maximum possible compensation for injuries and other losses.

Motorcycle accident attorney Stuart M. Axelrod and our legal team are committed to delivering experienced, personalized legal services to our clients and providing them with diligent, ongoing attention and guidance.

FAQs About Summerville, SC Motorcycle Accident Laws

Is It Worth It to Get a Lawyer for a Motorcycle Accident?

Yes, it can be worth it to get a lawyer for a motorcycle accident. Motorcycle accidents can raise complex liability issues, insurance disputes, and serious injuries. An experienced attorney investigates facts and negotiates with insurance companies to protect your rights while seeking the highest possible compensation for medical expenses and lost wages, and pain and suffering, which increases the potential for a fair settlement or court verdict.

How Much Can You File a Claim for After a Motorcycle Accident?

How much a motorcycle accident claim is worth varies greatly. Severe injuries, property damage, lost wages, and the long-term effects on your life all contribute to potential damages. Liability issues and insurance policy limits may also impact your potential recovery. An attorney can review your case and work to ensure that both economic and non-economic damages are pursued, either through a settlement or a trial verdict.

How Long Does a Motorcycle Accident Settlement Take?

The time it takes to reach a motorcycle accident settlement can vary depending on the specific circumstances of the case. Factors that can affect the timeline include the complexity of the case, the severity of the injuries sustained, and the insurance companies involved. Simple cases may take a short amount of time, while those more complex with severe injuries and disputes over liability can take much longer.

Who’s At Fault in Most Motorcycle Accidents?

The majority of motorcycle collisions are determined to be the other driver’s fault. This happens because other drivers fail to give way or drive while distracted, or they misjudge how fast motorcycles are going. In some cases, though, liability is shared, as poor road conditions, weather, or the actions of the motorcyclist can contribute to the crash.

Contact Axelrod & Associates, P.A.

If you were injured in a motorcycle accident, Axelrod & Associates, P.A., can help you seek the compensation you need for your damages. Contact us today to get started.