Motorcycle riding is very popular in the state of Pennsylvania, and it is generally seen as a fun and efficient means of transportation. However, due to the degree of exposure, riding motorcycles can often be quite dangerous. Some of the most common motorcycle injuries are broken bones, amputations, spinal cord injuries, and brain injuries. If you find yourself injured in a motorcycle accident, the best thing you can do is hire an attorney who will fight for the compensation you deserve.
What are the most common causes of motorcycle accidents?
While faulty parts, dangerous designs, or poor road conditions are often the cause of motorcycle accidents, the leading cause is human negligence. If you are able to prove another party’s negligence was the cause of your suffering, then you will most likely qualify for compensation.
What are some examples of negligent behavior?
If you are injured on a motorcycle, the injuries you sustain may be far worse than if you were driving a different motor vehicle at the time of your accident. Therefore, the effects of another party’s negligence are usually far more severe. Here is a list of negligent behavior:
- Drunk or drugged driving
- Distracted or drowsy driving
- Excessive speed
- Sudden lane changes
- Texting or using other electronics without hands-free capability while driving
- Lane splitting
- Failure to yield
- Failure to check blind spots
- Failure to comply with traffic lights
If you are able to prove another party was doing any of these things at the time of your accident, there is a good chance you will be able to prove their negligence and win your case. However, it is important you know that the state of Pennsylvania recognizes contributory negligence in motorcycle accidents. This means that even if the other party was 75% to blame, your compensation may be adjusted accordingly. If the court determines your accident was more than 50% your fault, then you will most likely lose out on all your compensation. This is why it is crucial you hire an experienced attorney to help you win your case.
How may I prove negligence?
If you wear a GoPro or another type of camera on your helmet or otherwise, a clear video or photograph of the incident may help your chances of winning your claim tremendously. Additionally, after the accident, you must get to a medical professional immediately. He or she will help treat your injuries and will provide you with the medical documents you may use to help win your case.
Contact our Pennsylvania firm
If you or someone you know has sustained injuries in a motorcycle accident due to another party’s negligence, contact the Law Offices of Ilkhanoff & Silverstein today.
