Love your motorcycle? Sure, it’s a money saver when comparing the cost of gas fuel-ups with a car or truck. And it’s easy to fit into even the tightest of parking spaces. But the real reason most of us ride is for the pure thrill of getting out on the open road, and the natural camaraderie that exists between fellow riders.
Of course, motorcycle riders do have heightened risks. In fact, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, motorcycle riders are four times more likely to sustain injuries in an accident. The simple fact is that riders are more exposed and have less protection around them.
As defensive a rider as you may be, there could come a time when a negligent driver causes you to be in an accident. If this ever happens to you, here are five clear signs when you should consider taking legal action:
1- You’ve Sustained Physical Injury
There are a number of things you can do to better protect yourself on a motorcycle, including wearing a helmet and proper safety gear. But if you’re hit by a negligent driver, you’re still extremely vulnerable to being thrown to the pavement, and you’re very likely to incur medical bills. If you’ve been injured in an accident, it’s imperative to call a competent motorcycle injury lawyer as soon as possible.
2- Your Motorcycle Has Been Damaged
While it’s natural to be focused on your physical injuries after an accident, you may also have to deal with damages or even the complete loss of your motorcycle. Even if you have another mode of transportation, if a negligent driver has damaged your motorcycle, you deserve to be compensated for your loss.
3- Your Injuries Cause You to Miss Work and Lose Wages
Motorcycle accidents can result in serious injuries often resulting in lost time from work. And, depending on the seriousness of your injuries, you may need to be concerned not only about the time lost immediately following an accident but also about future earnings if your injuries are extensive or permanent. You will need a knowledgeable law office well-versed in motorcycle law who will go the distance to ensure you are properly compensated for all lost wages both now and in the years ahead.
4- The Accident Has Caused You Pain and Suffering
You may physically heal from your injuries, but it may not be without a lot of pain in between. You may, in fact, continue to experience pain long after the crash. And what about your mental anguish? It can be hard to put a number on the value of these types of losses, but you have a right to be compensated for them. A good law firm will help you get the maximum financial compensation for such losses.
5- Loss of Consortium
Even if you were riding alone, if you are involved in a serious motorcycle accident, there may be other victims to consider. If a motorcyclist is severely injured or, worse, even killed, their significant other or family members may sustain losses as well. They may lose some of the benefits of the relationship they once enjoyed, including shared distribution of chores, or companionship. In addition, they may have to take on roles as caregivers. Such losses may also be worth compensation.
If you or a loved one are involved in a motorcycle accident, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by all the medical bills and added demands that come with such loss. Calling a skilled motorcycle accident attorney in any of these cases will help ensure you get the help you need. You don’t have to go through it alone.