The unparalleled feeling of freedom that you get when riding a motorcycle is one of the many reasons there are so many on the road. Unfortunately, each year as the weather gets nicer and the days longer, the number of motorcycle accidents surge. Motorcycle accidents can be devastating, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration’s latest data from 2022, 6,218 motorcyclists were killed in accidents—a record high since 1975.
At Sheeley Law, we are committed to protecting and advocating for the rights of Rhode Island motorcycle accident victims. If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident, it's crucial to understand your legal rights and options. As always, Rhode Island personal injury attorney Ann Sheeley is here for you 24/7 to answer your specific questions.
Navigating The Legal Terrain:
Determining who is at fault (liable) in a motorcycle accident is one of the most important factors in any personal injury case. While some accidents are straightforward and involve clear negligence on the part of another driver, others may be more complex. In cases where multiple parties share fault, each may be held liable to varying degrees. Additionally, road conditions, defective motorcycle parts, or inadequate signage may also play a role in the accident and subsequent liability.
Know and Protect Your Legal Rights:
It is estimated that two-thirds of all motorcycle accidents involve another vehicle and, in most cases, it is the driver of the vehicle who is at fault. If you've been injured in a motorcycle accident due to the negligence or recklessness of another party, you have legal rights, including:
Right to Compensation: You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages resulting from the accident.
Right to Legal Representation: An experienced personal injury attorney can help you navigate the complexities of the legal system, negotiate with insurance companies, and pursue fair compensation on your behalf.
Right to Hold Negligent Parties Accountable: By pursuing a personal injury claim, you can hold the responsible party accountable for their actions and potentially prevent similar accidents from occurring in the future.
Steps to Take Immediately After a Motorcycle Accident:
Seek Medical Attention: Even if your injuries seem minor, it's crucial to undergo a thorough medical evaluation to assess the extent of your injuries and begin treatment promptly.
Document the Scene: If possible, gather evidence at the accident scene, including photos of the vehicles involved, skid marks, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
Report the Accident: Contact law enforcement to report the accident and obtain a copy of the police report, which can be valuable evidence in your case.
Preserve all Physical Evidence: Do not repair your motorcycle until an expert has thoroughly examined it for evidence.
Contact an Attorney Experienced in Motorcycle Accidents: A personal injury attorney who has specific knowledge about motorcycle and accident laws in Rhode Island will be invaluable to someone who has been injured in a motorcycle crash and is seeking justice and compensation.
Why Motorcycle Accident Victims Need a Personal Injury Attorney:
In an instant after an accident, your life drastically changes. Now you must deal with unplanned circumstances – from how to cope with physical and emotional pain, to covering medical costs with less income from lost time at work. Understandably, you may start to feel intimidated by tackling all of these challenges on your own. Below is why you should consult with an experienced personal injury attorney that is licensed in Rhode Island and has experience with motorcycle accident claims:
They will guide you through the complicated legal process: Personal injury cases, especially those involving motorcycles, are complex and time-consuming. A reputable personal injury lawyer will guide you each step of the way throughout the entire process and help you avoid common pitfalls, such as accepting the first, low-ball settlement offer. They will also handle all the paperwork, court filings and negotiations, so you can focus on your recovery.
They can help you get the compensation you deserve: Insurance companies often refuse at first to pay fair compensation, even when the other driver was clearly at fault. The accident victim’s injuries may not be properly assessed, and the full costs of future medical care may not be taken into consideration. An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer will calculate the full extent of your damages, including medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. They will also fiercely negotiate with the insurance companies to secure you maximum compensation.
They will fight for your rights: The unfortunate reality is there is a lot of prejudice against motorcycle riders. The right personal injury lawyer will stand up for you and ensure your rights are protected.
They can aid you in the recovery process: Dealing with the aftermath of an accident can be emotionally and physically challenging. A compassionate attorney can provide the support and guidance you need to get through this difficult time. At Sheeley Law, we work hard to improve an accident victim’s quality of life by not only obtaining the compensation they deserve, but by also helping victims get the proper medical care and rehabilitation services necessary to aid in the recovery process.
Conclusion:
Many motorcycle accident victims fail to obtain the compensation they deserve, which is why victims needs strong and effective representation. Sheeley Law provides aggressive, results-driven representation for injured motorcycle riders and the families of fatal accident victims. Attorney Ann Sheeley has represented hundreds of motorcycle accident victims in her more than 25 years of experience. She has a proven track record of helping accident victims obtain maximum compensation for their losses and suffering.
Remember to have fun but ride with caution this summer. If you or a loved one are injured in a motorcycle accident, contact Sheeley Law at 401-619-5555 or asheeley@sheeleylaw.com.
If you're injured in a motorcycle accident in Rhode Island, it's crucial to follow some key steps to protect both your health and your legal rights. First, seek immediate medical attention, even if your injuries seem minor, as some symptoms may not appear right away. If you've been involved in a motorcycle accident and are in need of legal assistance, we are here to provide the help you need: https://rjoneslawgroup.com/areas-we-serve/houston-tx/motorcycle-accident-lawyer/. Navigating the aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be overwhelming, from dealing with insurance companies to understanding your legal rights.