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When another driver acts carelessly or road conditions are poor, devastating motorcycle accidents can occur. If you were involved in one, a Duncan personal injury lawyer can help you recover compensation.
At Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC, our team can help you pursue full and fair compensation for your losses. Reach out to our Duncan motorcycle accident lawyers now to get started on your case.
Types of Motorcycle Accidents in Duncan, SC
Motorcycle accidents in Duncan happen for many reasons. The most common types include:
- Left–turn collisions: Crashes often occur when a driver turns left in front of an oncoming rider, misjudging their speed or not seeing them at all.
- Rear–end accidents: When distracted or speeding drivers fail to stop in time, motorcyclists can be thrown from their bikes even in low-speed impacts.
- Lane–change crashes: Drivers often fail to check their blind spots before merging, sideswiping riders traveling beside them.
- Head–on collisions: These are among the deadliest accidents, often occurring on two-lane roads or during failed passing attempts.
- Single–vehicle wrecks: Potholes, loose gravel, and slick surfaces can cause riders to lose control, even when no other vehicle is involved.
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Since motorcycles offer little protection, even a low-speed crash can cause devastating injuries. Some of the most common ones include:
- Road rash
- Broken bones
- Head and brain injuries.
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal injuries
Recovering from these injuries can take months or even years. A motorcycle accident lawyer in Duncan can help you recover damages for medical bills, lost wages, and more.
South Carolina Motorcycle Laws
If you ride in Duncan or anywhere else in South Carolina, you must follow these laws:
- Helmet laws: Riders under 21 must wear a helmet approved by the Department of Public Safety. While adults aren’t required to, wearing one can prevent head injuries and strengthen your claim.
- Eye protection: Riders under 21 must wear goggles or have a windshield or an approved face shield.
- Passenger rules: Passengers must have their own seat and footrests.
- Lane splitting: Riding between lanes of traffic is illegal in South Carolina.
- Insurance requirements: Motorcyclists must carry minimum liability insurance for bodily injury and property damage.
Following these laws not only helps keep you safe but also protects you legally if another driver causes a crash.
The Motorcycle Accident Claims Process
Many riders are unsure what to expect after a crash. Understanding the claims process can make it easier to navigate what comes next. The process usually involves these stages:
- Filing the claim: Your lawyer submits a claim to the at-fault driver’s insurance company.
- Investigation: Insurers review reports, photos, and medical records to assess fault and damages.
- Negotiation: Your attorney and the insurer exchange settlement offers.
- Settlement or litigation: Most cases settle, but your lawyer can take the case to court if needed.
- Resolution: Once an agreement is reached, you receive compensation for your damages.
A motorcycle accident attorney in Duncan can help make sure this process stays on track and that insurers don’t pressure you into a low settlement.
What Forms of Evidence Strengthen Your Case?
A strong motorcycle accident claim is built on solid evidence. Key types include:
- Accident reports: Police documentation provides an objective summary of the crash.
- Photos and videos: These can show vehicle damage, road conditions, and visible injuries.
- Witness statements: These can help confirm the events leading up to the crash.
- Medical records: These can prove the extent and cost of your injuries.
- Expert testimony: Accident reconstruction experts can clarify how and why the collision occurred.
Types of Compensation Available
Victims of motorcycle accidents in Duncan may qualify for several forms of compensation, including:
- Medical expenses: This includes hospital bills, doctor visits, surgeries, prescription medications, and rehabilitation costs related to your injuries.
- Lost income: This covers the wages you missed while recovering and any future income you will lose if your injuries limit your ability to work.
- Pain and suffering: This compensates you for the physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish caused by the accident.
- Property damage: This reimburses you for the cost of repairing or replacing your motorcycle, riding gear, and any personal property damaged in the crash.
- Loss of enjoyment of life: This reflects how your injuries have reduced your ability to participate in hobbies, activities, or daily routines you once enjoyed.
A lawyer can evaluate your situation and calculate a settlement that accounts for all of your short-term and long-term losses.
What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Duncan
The moments after a crash are chaotic, but your actions can make a big difference in your recovery and claim outcome. You should:
- Call 911: Report the accident and get medical help.
- Document the scene: Take photos of the vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
- Exchange information: Get names, contact details, and insurance info from all parties involved in the accident. In addition, obtain contact details from any witnesses at the scene.
- Seek medical attention: Get evaluated by a physician, even if your injuries don’t seem serious.
- Don’t admit fault: Stick to the facts when speaking with police, drivers, and insurance adjusters.
- Contact a lawyer: Reach out to our attorneys to discuss your case.
Get Assistance from a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Duncan
A motorcycle crash can leave you facing a long recovery and unexpected time off work. But with the right legal help, you can fight back and rebuild your life.
A Duncan motorcycle accident lawyer from Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC, can investigate your crash, handle insurers, and pursue the maximum compensation available to you.
After an accident, evidence can disappear quickly. Book a free case review to start building your claim today.
