Personal Injury Lawyer
For those who ride motorcycles, there’s nothing like taking on the open road. However, riding a motorcycle can be exceptionally dangerous, simply due to the fact that there are different risks involved with riding this type of vehicle compared to a car or a truck.
Unfortunately, because of these risks, there are a lot of accidents that can be dangerous and deadly. Motorcyclists deserve to be respected on the road, and this is why our motorcycle accident lawyers are here, to protect your rights and get you the compensation you deserve in case of the worst.
Why Are Motorcycles Risky?
Motorcyclists are at an increased risk while on the road because:
- Multiple road hazards. Things that may seem small to larger vehicles can be dangerous to cyclists, such as wet pavement, flying debris like small rocks, blowing snow, or uneven road surfaces.
- Their small size causes decreased visibility. Motorcyclists are more likely to ride in another vehicle’s blind spot simply because they can drive faster and closer to the other cars on the road. But unfortunately, accidents happen because drivers can be negligent to those around them.
- Less stability. Because they are on only two wheels, motorcycles are not as stable as the traditional car.
- Nothing between the rider and the road. There is no barrier like a window between the rider and the road, so if the cyclist is hit, they have nothing but their helmet to protect them.
- Increased skill level needed. Unskilled cyclists are a large culprit behind many accidents as driving a motorcycle requires extra skills than that of driving a car.
Negligence in a Motorcycle Accident
The majority of motorcycle accidents are caused by negligence, whether by the other driver or by the cyclist themselves.
The most common example of driver negligence is not wearing a helmet. Every state has their own rules about motorcyclists wearing helmets, but it should go without saying that you should always, always wear one when going for a ride. It is for your own protection, as you never know what is going to happen when you get on the road!
However, if you were not wearing a helmet and you got injured, you most likely will not be placed at fault. This is because not wearing a helmet is seen as a personal decision, one that cannot be cited as the cause of the accident over the other driver’s negligence.
Working with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer St. Paul, MN relies on is crucial because it can be difficult to prove the other driver’s negligence. You will want a lawyer to help you gather as much evidence as you can, speak to insurance companies, and work as your legal advocate in situations you may feel uncomfortable in.
Thank you to our friends and contributors at Johnston | Martineau, PLLP for their insight into motorcycle accident law and personal injury claims.