The main causes of motorcycle accidents are similar to those that cause motor vehicle accidents. The U.S. General Services Administration Office of Motor Vehicle Management reports that 98% of all collisions are the result of human error. However, motorcycle accidents can also be caused by inclement weather and poor roadway conditions.
Some other causes of motorcycle accidents include:
- Reckless lane changes
- Opening a car door without regard for oncoming motorcyclists
- Speeding
- Unsafe turns
- Motorcycle defects
All it takes is one lapse in judgment to completely upend your world. By knowing the most common causes of collisions between motorcycles and motor vehicles, you give yourself the ability to troubleshoot ahead of time, identify risky driving situations, and take proper precautions. If you were already involved in a motorcycle accident, you should consider how an Ohio motorcycle accident lawyer could serve you.
Avoiding Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents claim the lives of thousands of bikers each year. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reported nearly 5,000 motorcycle accident fatalities in 2018. While no one can completely eliminate the risk of a collision, there are a few things bikers can do to avoid accidents and protect themselves from harm.
These proactive measures are as follows:
- Always wear proper protective gear. This includes more than just wearing a helmet. This also includes wearing protective gloves, jackets, pants, and boots. These items can dramatically reduce the severity of your injuries if you are involved in an accident.
- Participate in a motorcycle safety course. While voluntary and not a foolproof preventative measure, there are courses all over the country that can provide valuable information for riders.
- Maintain your motorcycle. Some bikers do not regularly maintain their vehicles, which can contribute to or cause an accident. You should periodically take your bike to the mechanic to make sure that everything is working properly.
We mentioned earlier that one of the main causes of motorcycle accidents is human error. While you cannot control the actions of others, you can certainly control your own. You should do everything in your power to reduce the likelihood of being injured in a motorcycle accident.
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Measures to Take After a Motorcycle Accident
If you have been involved in a collision with a motor vehicle, there are a few steps you should take to protect your right to fair compensation.
You should consider:
Seeking Medical Attention as Soon as Possible
Following your accident, you should seek medical attention as soon as possible. Even if your injuries appear minor or are not noticeable, you may have internal injuries that could cause life-threatening complications. For instance, if you are suffering from internal bleeding, you may not be aware of the injury until you develop serious symptoms. A doctor can work not only to treat your condition but also to provide documentation of your injuries.
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Consulting with an Ohio Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Following your accident, you may be left with various out-of-pocket expenses such as medical bills, lost income, and property damage costs. A lawyer can help you file a personal injury claim or lawsuit to recoup the cost of your damages.
They can also:
- Manage your case’s paperwork
- Gather evidence of your injuries and damages
- Estimate the cost of your losses
- Speak with your doctor
- Work with accident reconstruction specialists
- Guide your case to completion
A lawyer may be able to help you in ways not listed here.
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Compensable Losses Following an Ohio Motorcycle Accident
If someone else’s negligence or recklessness caused your accident, you may be entitled to recover compensation for your damages.
These damages can include:
- Medical bills. This includes doctors’ visits, hospital visits, surgeries, medications, and rehabilitative services.
- Lost wages. You may be able to recover your past, current, and future lost income due to your injuries. Compensation can also include a diminishment of your earning capacity if you are able to return to work but not in the same capacity as before the accident.
- Pain and suffering. Pain and suffering can include the physical pain and mental anguish stemming from your collision.
- Property damage expenses. This includes damage to your motorcycle and any other property that might have been damaged as a result of the accident.
- Funeral and burial costs (in instances of wrongful death). This can include the cost of laying a loved one to rest, along with compensation for the loss of companionship and financial support.
A lawyer can explain what other damages you may be able to recover.
Call Bressman Law to Explore Your Legal Options Today
If the prospect of bringing forth a personal injury or wrongful death claim feels overwhelming, a motorcycle accident lawyer at Bressman Law can act as your advocate.
Our team will review your case, investigate your collision, handle all communications, and advise you on how to move forward. Call (614) 538-1116 to begin a free consultation today.
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