In the vibrant city of Greenville, South Carolina, motorcyclists often embrace the freedom and thrill of riding on scenic roads. However, riding can quickly become a nightmare when an accident occurs. Motorcycle accidents in Greenville often result in severe injuries or even fatalities for riders.
The fallout of a motorcycle crash can be overwhelming for victims and their families, who may face a long recovery process, substantial medical expenses, lost wages, and immense pain and suffering.
The dedicated attorneys at the Derrick Law Firm work to protect the rights of injured riders and help motorcycle accident victims pursue the compensation they may be entitled to. Contact us to see if we can help with your case. This guide provides information about motorcyclists' risks on Greenville roads, considerations after a wreck, and the role of experienced legal representation in motorcycle accident cases.
The Risks of Motorcycle Accidents in Greenville
Motorcycles account for only a small percentage of registered vehicles in South Carolina, yet they are involved in a disproportionately high number of traffic accidents. In Greenville County alone, dozens of motorcyclists may suffer serious injuries each year.
Several factors contribute to the heightened risks motorcyclists face on the road, including:
- Distracted driving and failure to yield. Motorists often fail to notice motorcycles or misjudge their speed and distance. Distracted drivers are prone to making dangerous left turns in front of oncoming riders or merging into a motorcyclist's path.
- Hazardous road conditions. Potholes, loose gravel, uneven pavement, and other road defects that may be minor inconveniences for cars can pose significant hazards for motorcyclists. Without the stability of four wheels, riders can quickly lose control when encountering poor road conditions.
- Lack of protection. Unlike motorists in enclosed vehicles, motorcyclists have minimal protection in a collision. Without seat belts, airbags, or a steel frame to absorb impact, riders frequently suffer catastrophic injuries such as brain trauma, spinal cord damage, crush injuries, and road rash.
An experienced Greenville motorcycle accident lawyer understands these unique challenges and knows how to work to construct a compelling case to hold negligent drivers liable. Derrick Law Firm Injury Lawyers has the knowledge, resources, and determination to help motorcycle accident victims seek fair compensation.
Common Mistakes to Avoid After a Motorcycle Accident
In the chaos and confusion following a motorcycle accident, it's easy for riders to make mistakes that could jeopardize their health and legal rights. Some common errors to avoid include:
- Failing to seek medical attention. Even if injuries seem minor, getting a thorough medical examination is crucial. Some injuries, like concussions or internal bleeding, may not be immediately apparent.
- Admitting fault or apologizing. Statements made at the accident scene, including apologies, could affect a potential legal case.
- Not gathering evidence. If possible, riders should collect evidence at the scene, including photos of damages, injuries, road conditions, and witness contact information.
- Accepting a quick settlement. Insurance companies often try to settle claims quickly and for minimal amounts. Consider consulting with a motorcycle accident lawyer before accepting settlement offers.
- Waiting too long to seek legal advice. South Carolina has a statute of limitations for personal injury claims, so riders should consider potential legal action before it’s too late.
By avoiding these common mistakes and following the proper steps after an accident, injured riders may better protect their health and legal interests.
What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident
Knowing what to do after being involved in a motorcycle accident can make a significant difference in a rider's recovery and legal case. Here are important steps to consider:
Step 1: Ensure Safety and Call 911
If possible, move to a safe area away from traffic. Check for injuries and call 911 to request emergency medical assistance and law enforcement. Even if injuries seem minor, getting a medical evaluation is essential.
Step 2: Gather Evidence
If injuries allow, collect evidence at the scene:
- Take photos of injuries, damage to vehicles, skid marks, and road conditions
- Obtain contact information for any eyewitnesses
- Make notes about the accident details while they're fresh in memory
Step 3: Obtain an Accident Report
Cooperate with law enforcement and provide a factual account of the accident. Obtain a copy of the official accident report, which may contain important information about the crash.
Step 4: Notify Insurance Company
Consider contacting your insurance company to report the accident while focusing on basic facts. Speaking with a motorcycle accident lawyer before providing recorded statements or accepting settlement offers can help you understand your rights and options.
Step 5: Keep Records
Essential documents to consider keeping may include:
- Medical bills and records
- Repair estimates and receipts
- Lost wage information
- Communication with insurance companies
Step 6: Contact a Greenville Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Consider consulting with an experienced attorney who can evaluate your rights and options. Speaking with a lawyer early in the process allows for a thorough assessment of your situation and an explanation of potential legal paths forward.
South Carolina Motorcycle Laws
All motorcyclists in Greenville and throughout South Carolina must comply with the state's motorcycle laws and regulations, including:
- Helmet requirements. South Carolina’s helmet law requires all riders under 21 (operators and passengers) to wear a helmet that meets state standards while riding.
- Lane splitting. Lane splitting, the practice of riding between lanes of slow or stopped traffic, is prohibited in South Carolina. Motorcyclists must stay within a single lane.
- Insurance. Motorcyclists must carry liability insurance. The minimum coverage amounts are $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 for property damage (25/50/25 coverage). Consider consulting current South Carolina laws or legal counsel for the most up-to-date requirements, as these requirements may change.
A knowledgeable Greenville motorcycle accident lawyer can explain how these laws may affect an accident case and potential compensation options. Even if a rider was partially at fault for violating a traffic law, they might still be entitled to damages under South Carolina's modified comparative negligence rule. Contact an attorney to understand your specific legal options.
What a Greenville Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Does After a Crash
Motorcycle accident cases can involve severe injuries and potentially multiple liable parties. A Greenville motorcycle accident lawyer may:
- Investigate the crash to establish fault and gather evidence
- Identify potential sources of recovery, such as insurance coverage, UM/UIM coverage, or road maintenance agencies
- Assess damages, including future medical needs and non-economic losses like pain and suffering
- Negotiate with insurance companies
- Present cases at trial when necessary
While past results do not guarantee future outcomes, you can review Derrick Law Firm Injury Lawyers' experience handling motorcycle accident cases.
Choosing a Motorcycle Injury Lawyer in Greenville
When seeking an attorney to handle a case, consider:
- Relevant experience and case results in motorcycle and motor vehicle accident claims
- Experience with South Carolina courts and legal system
- A client-focused approach with open communication and personalized attention
- The ability to advance costs for experts, accident reconstructionists, medical records, and more.
