Motorcycle accidents often lead to devastating injuries. While many people enjoy the freedom and maneuverability, motorcycles do not provide the same protection of a car. The rider is exposed to the full impact of another vehicle, meaning even relatively low-speed accidents can be dangerous or fatal. The medical costs and property damage can pile up quickly. A trustworthy personal injury attorney can help you fight for the financial compensation you need.
David E. Gordon, a Cordova motorcycle accident lawyer, can be your advocate in holding the at-fault party liable for the injuries that you received.
Motorcycle Crash Injuries
The lack of protection on motorcycles that are found in other types of motor vehicles makes them more dangerous to ride. When another driver is negligent and fails to account for a motorbike rider nearby, the results of a collision could be devastating. Common injuries include, but are not limited to:
- Whiplash
- Road rash
- Broken bones and fractures
- Organ damage
- Burns
- Paralysis
- Brain and neck injuries
- Death
If it can be proved that any of these injuries arose out of a crash due to a negligent driver, David can make the case that they should be responsible for paying the costs of it.
How to Prove Negligence
In order to succeed in a lawsuit following a motorcycle accident, the injured rider and their attorney will need to prove the other driver was negligent. Negligence occurs when another driver: (1) had a duty of care to drive safely around others, (2) breached that duty, (3) caused injuries as a result of that breach, and (4) the injuries led to damages that must be compensated for. The legal process to accomplish this goal can be complicated for anyone without years of necessary legal experience.
In order to prove negligence, a Cordova motorbike accident attorney can interview witnesses, analyze police and medical reports, and try to find any recordings of the incident. The case may require the use of medical experts to prove injuries and an accident reconstruction expert to testify that the other driver was responsible. Even in a case where it seems plainly obvious that the other driver was at fault, the process to prove that in court can be complicated. Your odds of success increase if you retain the services of a lawyer who has litigated these cases before.
Protective Matters to Take After a Collision
Following a motorcycle collision, there are a few things bikers can do that will prove invaluable later. First, it is important to take photographs of the vehicles and their resulting damage. Photographs of the biker’s injuries at the scene can also be used as evidence. In addition, the names and phone numbers of all witnesses could be critical.
If an injured biker is capable of taking pictures and writing down names, they can do it themselves. But if the injuries are serious enough, they may have to ask someone else to do it. No matter how serious the accident is, they should always call law enforcement to help make a report of the scene which can be used in litigation later. The investigating officer’s record of the crash is a necessary document in determining fault and then establishing the time and circumstances surrounding the crash.
In many cases, the police report contains statements that each driver made to the officer. Sometimes the other driver will admit fault at the scene of an accident and then might come up with a new story after speaking with their insurance company. That is why on-the-scene reports can make or break a case.
Motorcycle Accidents and Financial Compensation
Many cases of motorcycle accidents end up with the plaintiff winning significant financial compensation. However, it all depends on the injuries that the plaintiff suffered and what can be proven in court. Potential forms of financial compensation include:
- Medical expenses
- Rehabilitation costs
- Lost income or future earning capacity
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional trauma
- Wrongful death
Proving financial compensation is a critical component to winning it. Following the rules of evidence is a complicated but crucial process that should be handled by a professional. A local lawyer who is well-versed in motorcycle accident law can provide a framework for success.
Schedule a Consultation with a Cordova Motorcycle Accident Attorney
After a motorcycle accident, you are likely in no position to handle a prolonged legal battle. Furthermore, you should not have to pay for costs associated with someone else’s negligence or wrongdoing. This is where the Law Office of David E. Gordon can help. Fight for financial relief with the aid of a Cordova motorcycle accident lawyer. Contact the office today for a free consultation.
