If you regularly ride a motorcycle, you know how exhilarating it can be. Unfortunately, the lack of protection that aids with the excitement can contribute to serious or catastrophic injuries in the event of an accident.
As the victim of a crash, you need legal representation you can trust. When you work with a Parkersburg motorcycle accident lawyer, we’ll ensure your claim proves you were wronged by a negligent driver and deserve full and fair compensation for your accident-related expenses and losses. Working with an attorney from our firm maximizes your chances of a favorable settlement.
At DiPiero Simmons McGinley & Bastress, PLLC, we’re proud to represent the residents of Parkersburg. We’re here to guide you through the litigation process when you need us the most.
Common Motorcycle Crashes in Parkersburg
Understanding the type of accident you were in is crucial for your claim. Not only will it help determine how the event happened, but it can play a big role in determining fault. Some of the more common motorcycle crashes include:
- Left-turn Accidents. The most common type of accident happens when a car makes a left-hand turn in front of a motorcycle. The car typically makes impact while going straight through an intersection, or as the two-wheeled vehicle is trying to pass them.
- Lane Switching Collisions. Lane switching accidents are often the result of driver inattentiveness. Not all drivers are on the lookout for motorcycles. As a result, a merging car could easily strike the smaller vehicle from the side. These wrecks also happen because bikes are easily obstructed in blind spots.
- Head-on Crashes. When a car strikes a motorcycle head-on, the resulting injuries are often deadly. These accidents typically happen at high speeds and the motorcyclist will either be crushed or catapulted through the air.
- Lane Splitting Accidents. Lane splitting happens when a motorcyclist drives between two lanes of slowed or stopped traffic during a traffic jam or at a stop light. This easily results in an accident because of the small distance between the motorcycle and the cars, the lack of space the motorcyclist has to maneuver, and the lack of anticipation a driver has for lane splitting—since the action is often illegal.
- Speed-related Wrecks. A motorcycle’s cost effectiveness and ability to go fast are two points of interest for people when they purchase one. It’s estimated that nearly a third of all motorcycle fatalities are the result of speeding. High-performance motorcycles, like those that are lightweight and can travel up to 160 miles per hour or more, are more likely to end up in a crash caused by speeding.
The accident you were in may not be listed above, but that doesn’t mean you can’t file a claim. Our lawyers will evaluate your situation and determine the type of crash you were in, so a strong case can be built on your behalf.
How Insurance Companies Handle Motorcycle Accidents
Whether you’re dealing with a third-party insurance company after a crash or an adjuster from your own policy’s company, it’s important to remember that they are not on your side. The role of an adjuster is to minimize the company’s payout to protect their interests and bottom line.
If you speak with an adjuster, they may start with small talk and simple questions, but as the conversation continues it could feel more like an interrogation. They may be waiting for you to say something that could justify their limiting or denying your claim.
This is why it’s important to speak with a lawyer prior to scheduling a time to speak with an insurance adjuster. Our lawyers can be present during the conversation and advise you, so you don’t jeopardize your compensation. In some situations, we may be able to handle the conversation for you.
Safety Tips for Motorcyclists
Whether you’ve recently been in a crash or a loved one was hurt riding their motorcycle, it’s important to regularly go over safety tips for riding. The tips we’re about to discuss will aid in the prevention of accidents and help reduce the severity of your injuries if you find yourself in a crash.
Always be sure to wear protective gear. This includes a helmet that meets federal and state guidelines, a snug jacket, gloves, proper riding boots, long pants, and eye protection. In the event you’re in a wreck, your protective gear will reduce your risk of a traumatic brain injury and road rash.
It’s also important to regularly inspect your bike. Make sure your tires are in good condition and that the tire pressure is where it should be. It’s also a good idea to make sure all your lights are functioning properly. Check your coolant and hydraulic fluids and make sure your brakes are working as they should. If you notice any signs that something could be wrong, refrain from riding it and get your motorcycle to a mechanic as soon as possible.
While you’re out on the road, do everything you can to be seen by other drivers. This means using your lights at all times, avoiding blind spots, and using your horn when necessary. It’s also a good idea to practice defensive driving tactics.
File a Personal Injury Claim Today
If you’ve been injured in a crash, it’s time to take action. Pursuing a claim isn’t always easy, especially if you were involved in a motorcycle accident. The insurance company and other driver may try to pin the blame on you, simple because of what you were driving. When you work with a Parkersburg motorcycle accident lawyer from DiPiero Simmons McGinley & Bastress, PLLC, we’ll prove that you were wronged and deserve compensation for your losses.
Filing a claim takes time, and it’s important to do so before the statute of limitations renders you ineligible for compensation. Contact our attorneys today to learn about filing a claim with our help. We’ll start by evaluating your situation and determining how best to proceed so you can move forward comfortably.
