In a ten-year period, from 1997 to 2007, motorcycle accidents rose 144 percent, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Fatalities have also reached an all-time high, up 6.6 percent.

Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Because they are two-wheeled, open vehicles, motorcycles are less crashworthy than automobiles. Common causes of motorcycle accidents include the following: • Failure of other drivers to see the motorcycle • Lack of protective equipment, or defective equipment • Motorcycle malfunction Passengers of intoxicated drivers or those who are driving unsafely, as well as pedestrians who are struck by negligent motorcycle drivers, are also the victims of motorcycle accidents.

Effects of Motorcycle Accidents

Because motorcycles are not enclosed, injuries can be particularly disastrous. In addition to suffering from the physical and emotional ramifications of a motorcycle accident, the financial ramifications can be devastating. Drivers and passengers involved in motorcycle accidents are not only faced with recovery, they must also deal with insurance hassles, huge medical bills, and money lost from lost time at work. In many cases, with the right legal knowledge, these costs can be recovered. If you or a loved one has recently been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact Newsome Law Firm and fill out a case evaluation form today. Our experienced team of attorneys can give you the legal guidance you need, and can help you get the compensation you deserve.

What to Do Immediately Following a Motorcycle Accident

Call the police, and seek medical care immediately. If other individuals or organizations were involved in the incident, take care not to sign any insurance papers until your attorney has had a chance to review them. An attorney will ensure the survivor isn’t waiving his or her rights or agreeing to a settlement sum that isn’t adequate to cover his or her care. Finally, because statutes of limitations vary from state to state, it’s important that the person who has been involved in a motorcycle accident contact an attorney right away.