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Even a short motorcycle ride can be dangerous. If you were involved in an accident, a Mills River personal injury lawyer can help you file a claim.
Motorcycle accidents can lead to sky-high medical bills and costly property damage. A Mills River motorcycle accident lawyer from Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC, can help you pursue a fair settlement for your losses.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents in Mills River often result from factors that are preventable. These include:
- Distracted driving: Drivers who are texting, talking, or otherwise distracted may not see motorcycles on the road.
- Speeding: High speeds reduce reaction time and increase the severity of crashes.
- Alcohol and drug use: Impaired drivers often cause motorcycle accidents.
- Lane splitting: Weaving between vehicles can increase the risk of collisions.
- Poor road conditions: Potholes, debris, and uneven surfaces can cause riders to lose control.
Injuries Commonly Sustained in Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents often result in serious injuries due to the limited protection motorcycles provide. Some of the most common injuries include:
- Road rash
- Broken bones
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal bleeding
- Lacerations and cuts
- Fractured ribs
If you sustained any of these injuries in a crash that wasn’t your fault, a motorcycle accident lawyer in Mills River can help you recover damages.
Types of Compensation You Can Recover
After a motorcycle accident, you may be eligible for various types of compensation, such as:
- Medical expenses: You can pursue damages for hospital bills, surgeries, medications, and physical therapy related to the accident.
- Lost income: You can seek compensation for wages you lost while recovering from the crash
- Pain and suffering: You can be compensated for the physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Property damage: You can seek damages for the repair or replacement of your motorcycle and any other damaged personal property.
A motorcycle accident attorney in Mills River can help make sure your claim includes all of your losses.
Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident
Taking the right steps immediately after an accident can strengthen your case and protect your rights. Here’s what you should do:
- Report the accident: Notify local law enforcement and obtain an official police report.
- Document the scene: Take photos of vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
- Exchange information: Trade contact and insurance info with all of the other parties involved in the crash.
- Collect witness information: Obtain the names and contact details of anyone who saw the accident.
- Seek medical attention: Get checked by a doctor, even if your injuries seem minor.
- Contact a lawyer: A qualified motorcycle accident attorney can guide you through the claims process.
Tips for Dealing with the Insurance Company
Insurance companies often try to settle claims quickly for as little as possible. Here are some tips to protect yourself:
- Avoid recorded statements: Don’t give recorded statements without legal advice.
- Document communications: Save emails, letters, and notes from phone calls with insurers.
- Don’t accept the first offer: Initial settlements are often lower than what you are entitled to.
- Consult a lawyer: An attorney can handle negotiations and fight for fair compensation on your behalf.
What Is the Average Settlement for a Motorcycle Crash?
Motorcycle accident settlement amounts vary widely from case to case. In North Carolina, settlements can range from a few thousand dollars for minor accidents to hundreds of thousands for severe ones. Factors that can influence a claim’s value include:
- Injury severity and long-term medical needs
- Lost income and lost earning capacity
- Property damage to your motorcycle and other personal items
- Insurance policy limits
A lawyer can evaluate your case and help you pursue a settlement that accurately reflects your losses.
How the Claims Process Works
Understanding the claims process can make it less overwhelming. Here’s how it works:
- Notification: You notify your insurance company and file a claim.
- Investigation: The insurer investigates liability, reviews evidence, and examines damages.
- Negotiation: Your lawyer works to negotiate a settlement to cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages.
- Litigation: If an agreement cannot be reached, your attorney can file a lawsuit and represent you in court.
How Long Do I Have to File a Motorcycle Accident Claim in NC?
In North Carolina, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim is generally three years from the date of a motorcycle crash. Acting promptly is crucial because waiting too long can weaken your case and make it harder to gather key evidence or witness accounts.
If you miss this deadline, you will likely lose your right to pursue compensation for the accident, which is why you should contact a lawyer as soon as possible.
Consult Our Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Mills River
Motorcycle accidents can lead to serious medical and financial hardship. If you were injured in one, you deserve to be compensated for your losses. A Mills River motorcycle accident attorney from Farmer & Morris Law, PLLC, can guide you through the claims process.
We’re here to defend your rights and help you obtain the maximum possible settlement. Schedule a free case review to take the first step toward rebuilding your life.
