Motorcycle accidents can result in catastrophic injuries, impacting victims physically, emotionally, and financially. For instance, riders often sustain severe head trauma which can lead to long-term cognitive impairments. Additionally, spinal cord injuries and soft tissue damage are common and may potentially produce lifelong disabilities.
Thankfully, if you suffered a crash caused by someone else’s misconduct, then you may obtain payment for your motorcycle accident injuries. There are several types of economic and non-economic damages that may be available. After your free case evaluation, our legal team can help determine which damages to pursue.
In the aftermath of your collision, get help from our experienced motorcycle accident lawyers by calling Howe Law at (844) 876-4357.
Why Do Motorcycle Accidents Happen in Olive Branch, MS?
There are various forms of negligence that may lead to harmful motorcycle collisions. After investigating your crash, our motorcycle accident attorneys can determine if it stems from any of the following:
Distracted Driving
Many motorcycle accidents occur because drivers are distracted by their phones, passengers, or anything else that diverts their attention from the road. While distracted, drivers are prone to committing dangerous maneuvers like improper lane changes and illegal left turns.
Speeding
Speeding is a very common cause motorcycle accidents. Many motorists who travel at high speeds have difficulty controlling their vehicles and noticing other vehicles sharing the roadway.
Drunk Driving
Alcohol impairs judgment and coordination, making drunk driving another common source of motorcycle accidents. Drunk driving accidents are particularly common at night. Fortunately, impaired drivers can typically be sued for the injuries they cause.
Failing to Adjust for Weather Conditions
Neglecting to adapt to adverse weather conditions like rain, snow, or fog can lead to decreased visibility and traction, increasing the risk of accidents. Motorcyclists should exercise caution and adjust their riding behavior accordingly to mitigate the dangers posed by inclement weather.
Tailgating
Following motorcycles too closely can limit reaction time and lead to rear-end collisions, especially when sudden stops are necessary. Maintaining a safe following distance is crucial for both drivers and riders to prevent accidents and ensure everyone’s safety on the road.
Ignoring Traffic Lights
Ignoring traffic lights is another potential cause of motorcycle accidents at intersections. Drivers must obey traffic laws and remain vigilant to prevent such accidents.
Failing to Yield the Right of Way
Drivers failing to yield to motorcycles at intersections or when merging can cause dangerous situations. Yielding the right of way is essential for maintaining traffic flow and preventing collisions between vehicles of different sizes and speeds. Our legal team can determine if your motorcycle accident happened because another driver failed to properly yield.
Defective Vehicle Parts
Malfunctioning motorcycle parts such as defective brakes or tires can also contribute to accidents. Manufacturers must ensure the quality and reliability of their products to prevent accidents caused by mechanical failures.
Failure to Maintain Roads
Lastly, poorly maintained roads such as those with potholes, uneven surfaces, or debris can pose hazards to motorcycle riders and increase the likelihood of accidents. Government agencies responsible for road maintenance must address these issues promptly to ensure the safety of all road users.
Sharing Blame for Your Motorcycle Accident in Olive Branch, MS
There are instances where motorcycle riders can share blame for their crashes. For instance, a rider may be partially at fault for their collision if they were speeding when they were struck by a distracted driver.
Thankfully, even if you are partly to blame for your motorcycle accident, you may still pursue payment for the damages you incurred. However, the amount of payment you can recover may be reduced.
Mississippi courts will abide by the doctrine of pure comparative negligence when awarding damages in motorcycle accident cases. This means that damages are apportioned based on parties’ degrees of blame. For instance, if you are 40% at fault for your motorcycle crash while another party is 60% responsible, then the other party will have to pay for 60% of your damages while you are left to account for the remaining 40%.
What Not to Do After Suffering a Motorcycle Accident in Olive Branch
Dealing with the aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be very challenging. Still, there are certain mistakes you must avoid in order to obtain the payment you deserve. The following is an overview of what not to do after your collision:
Delay Seeking Medical Attention
After a motorcycle accident, it is crucial not to delay seeking medical attention, even if injuries seem minor. Delaying medical care can exacerbate injuries and may complicate legal claims for compensation.
Leave the Scene
Leaving the scene of a motorcycle accident, especially if there are injuries or property damage, is illegal and can result in serious consequences. It is essential to remain at the scene, exchange information with other parties involved, and cooperate with law enforcement.
Admit Fault
Avoid admitting fault or apologizing at the scene of the accident, as this could be used against you in legal proceedings. Instead, focus on ensuring everyone’s safety and gathering relevant information, such as witness statements and photographs of the accident scene.
Neglecting to Notify Insurance
Promptly notifying your insurance company about the motorcycle accident is essential for initiating the claims process. Failure to report the accident in a timely manner could result in delays or denial of coverage, leaving you responsible for covering expenses out of pocket.
Discussing the Accident on Social Media
Refrain from discussing the details of the motorcycle accident on social media platforms, as these posts could be used against you by insurance adjusters or opposing parties. It is best to avoid sharing any information that could potentially harm your case or jeopardize your right to compensation.
Accepting a Quick Settlement
Be cautious of accepting a quick settlement offer from the insurance company without consulting a motorcycle accident lawyer. These initial offers are often inadequate and may not fully cover your medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages resulting from the accident.
Contact Our Attorneys for Assistance After a Motorcycle Crash in Olive Branch, MS
Seek guidance from our experienced motorcycle accident attorneys at Howe Law today by dialing (844) 876-4357.
