Were you injured in a motorcycle or car accident here in Columbia, South Carolina? All motorcyclists share the road with cars and trucks and have the same rights as any other vehicle. People know motorcycle collisions are extremely dangerous, and many severely injure the rider. With very little to protect the motorcyclist from any ongoing vehicle, the motorcyclist is especially vulnerable to a potential head injury in the event of a collision. Contact a motorcycle accident lawyer in Columbia from Goings Law Firm, LLC at (803) 350-9230 to schedule a free consultation.
Motorcycle Accident: What You Should Know
In addition to the enormous difference in size between a motorcycle and cars and trucks, the motorcycle exposes the driver to the elements, and there are few safety features. Although the motorcyclist may be wearing protective gear and a helmet, the driver still has very little to protect him/her from harm if involved in a crash with a larger vehicle. South Carolina law mandates that riders under 21 wear helmets, and not wearing a helmet can lead to more severe injuries and impact potential compensation in injury claims. Motorcyclists are often exposed to severe or life-threatening risks when involved in an accident with another car or stationary object. Many fatalities in bike accidents are due to head and neck injuries or traumatic brain injury. Further, motorcyclists often deal with common injuries such as broken bones and leg, knee, foot, and arm trauma.
It is also important to recognize internal injuries after a motorcycle crash, as some injuries may not be immediately noticeable due to adrenaline. Prompt medical evaluation is necessary even if the individual feels fine, as internal injuries can be serious and require immediate attention.
Motorcycle Accident Statistics
South Carolina Department of Public Safety has some fascinating statistics regarding motorcycle accidents in the state:
- There were 2,032 crashes involving motorcycles statewide in one recent year, leading to 147 deaths and 367 serious injuries.
- While there is no city-specific data for motorcycle crashes, 67 motorcyclists died in accidents in Richland County. Another 142 motorcyclists sustained serious injuries.
- Of the 146 motorcyclists killed in crashes that year, 79 were not wearing a helmet.
- In multi-vehicle crashes involving motorcycles, 61 percent of the motorcycle riders did not contribute to the collision.
- Somewhat surprisingly, more than half of all motorcycle accidents that year (1,226) occurred in daytime with clear/cloudy weather.
- Coincidentally, motorcyclists accounted for about 8.5 percent of all traffic fatalities and 8.9 percent of all serious injuries that year.
What Does It Mean?
What do these statistics mean for you? Riding a motorcycle in the United States can be a hazardous experience. Other cars and other vehicles are often unsure of how to treat motorcyclists and don’t treat them like they do other drivers.
This, combined with the vehicle’s small size and the lack of protection afforded motorcycle drivers by the structure of the motorcycle, means that motorcycle accidents are consistently on the rise, and the severity of accidents can be worse than other types of automotive accidents.
Given these risks, it is important to hire a motorcycle accident attorney in Columbia to handle the complexities of legal claims if you are involved in a motorcycle accident. Insurance companies often limit payouts and shift blame onto victims, making legal representation essential to ensure you receive fair compensation.
Frequently Asked Questions
At Goings Law Firm, LLC, we’ve dedicated years to aiding injured individuals in Columbia. We stand firm in our promise to assist you and keep you informed. We understand you might have questions. Check out the FAQs below and call our Columbia motorcycle accident lawyers at (803) 350-9230 for any other inquiries.
What does a motorcycle accident injury claim entail?
A motorcycle accident injury claim involves seeking compensation for injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident. These injuries are often more severe than those in car accidents. Hiring a Columbia motorcycle accident attorney is important to assess the specifics of your injury claim and advocate for fair compensation.
Why is it important to file a personal injury claim?
Filing a personal injury claim is essential for securing fair compensation for medical bills, rehabilitation costs, and the emotional impact of the accident. While no one looks forward to making such a claim, it is often necessary. Hiring a personal injury lawyer can help navigate the complexities of the claims process and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve.
How long will it take to resolve my case?
Each case is different, and the length will depend on many factors, such as when you file your claim, the insurance company, the details of the accident, and how the other side wants to approach finding a resolution. If we can’t find a resolution, the case might go to trial, extending the process. Securing legal representation is crucial, as an experienced lawyer can navigate these complexities and protect your interests.
The team here at Goings Law Firm, LLC will fight for you every step of the way. We prioritize getting your compensation promptly to ensure you can pay the bills associated with your motorcycle accident and get back into your daily routine with minimal hassle. Dealing with the driver’s insurance company can be challenging, and having legal representation ensures you receive fair compensation and avoid settling too quickly. We can give you a better estimate of the potential length of your case once you get in touch with our team and we get the chance to discuss the particular details of your case.
How much compensation could I receive?
We can’t estimate your claim’s value without case details. Factors like liability, affected parties, accident cause, jurisdiction, and insurance policies influence compensation. Every case is unique. You need to examine your case’s facts to understand potential damages and recover compensation. Medical expenses are a significant component of the total economic losses that can be claimed, emphasizing the importance of these financial claims in recovering from the impact of accidents and injuries. Additionally, non-economic damages, such as pain and suffering, are crucial to understand as they can significantly affect your compensation. Contacting a seasoned motorcycle accident lawyer is a important first step.
Would it affect my case if I was not wearing a motorcycle helmet?
In South Carolina, drivers 21 and older don’t need to wear a helmet. But operators and passengers 20 and younger must wear one according to South Carolina law. It is still possible for a motorcycle accident attorney to get compensation for your accident and injuries. The common causes of motorcycle accidents – driver error, drunk driving, road defects, and motorcycle defects – still apply, and it is possible to prove fault in these cases. No matter what safety precautions you took before the accident, there are still ways to establish another party’s fault as long as you were complying with all applicable laws.
On top of everything, a lack of a helmet can cause worse injuries that may create larger medical bills from treatment – you shouldn’t have to shoulder this burden alone. Severe injuries from not wearing a helmet can be life-changing and impact your potential compensation. With or without your helmet, you still deserve compensation for what was likely a traumatic accident. Let us help you hold the other driver or liable party responsible for their irresponsible actions on the road.
Why Choose the Motorcycle Accident Lawyers of Goings Law Firm, LLC?
Selecting the right motorcycle accident attorney with the right experience may have a huge bearing on the outcome of your injury claim. The Goings Law Firm, LLC has dedicated its career to assisting injured individuals and their families in the Columbia community. Hiring an experienced motorcycle accident attorney is crucial when dealing with insurance companies after a motorcycle accident. These attorneys can help handle the complexities of liability and ensure that victims do not inadvertently accept settlements that undervalue their injuries and losses.
We know the pain and suffering, medical bills, and lost wages that injuries to motorcycle operators bring. We are a top-rated litigation firm that values fairness, hard work, honesty, and service. Our number one priority is you. That means that we’ll keep you regularly updated about the status of your case. A motorcycle accident is a traumatic experience; we’ll handle your case with the care and compassion it deserves. The Goings Law Firm, LLC will advocate for your rights, fight for you, and seek the compensation you deserve for your injuries. Gathering evidence to establish fault and causation is essential for supporting your compensation claim.
Trust Goings Law Firm, LLC For Your Accident Claims
Our team has over 30 years of experience. We’ve helped many motorcycle accident victims, just like you, recover. After a serious motorcycle accident, you need a legal team familiar with South Carolina’s laws on motorcycle accidents. Goings Law Firm, LLC is uniquely qualified to assist you, as Robert F. Goings knows the values that are important to the people of Columbia. Growing up on his family’s farm in South Carolina, Mr. Goings learned that fairness, hard work, honesty, and service to others are essential, and his firm is centered on these values. We protect the interests of South Carolinians. The firm is dedicated to handling all matters related to your accident case. We will fight for justice on your behalf.
Types Of Motorcycle Cases We Handle
The Goings Law Firm, LLC knows that motorcycle accidents can cause different injuries and complications for those affected by motorcycle accident cases after the crash. Usually, a motorcycle accident caused by the following situation might require legal action:
Drunk Driving
If an intoxicated driver causes an accident, they are acting recklessly and negligently. They might be held responsible for injuries, medical costs, and other damages.
Driver Error
Many drivers operate their vehicles while distracted by cell phones, stereo systems, and passengers. Distracted driving is a serious problem that often results in devastating injury accidents.
Motorcycle Defects / Malfunction
Manufacturers have a responsibility to the consumer. They need to produce quality products that are free from defects and will function properly on the road. This is especially at high speeds. If a part fails, the rider may be severely injured or lose their life. If that happens, the manufacturer must take responsibility for their actions.
Highway / Road Defects
Each municipality in Columbia needs to take proper care of the roads and highways on which drivers and motorcycle riders travel. The city might be liable if a road defect or hazard caused your accident.
Lane Splitting
Lane splitting, or maneuvering between lanes of traffic, is illegal in South Carolina. If a motorcyclist is involved in an accident while lane splitting, they could be found partially at fault. Under comparative negligence rules, this may affect the compensation they can get.
Other Driver’s Insurance Company</strong></strong>
In a fault-based insurance system, the other driver’s insurance company may be responsible for damages. This is especially so if their insured is deemed primarily at fault. Be cautious of early settlement offers from the other driver’s insurer, as accepting them may limit future claims related to your injuries.
The motorcycle accident victim should not be the one to shoulder the financial burden of accidents. Contact an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer in Columbia at (803) 350-9230 to get a free consultation and discuss your case with a team member. We could help you stay safe and advice you on your injury claims.
Contact a Columbia Motorcycle Accident Lawyer from Goings Law Firm, LLC
If you or someone you love has been hurt in a motorcycle crash, call (803) 350-9230. Get a free consultation with a Columbia motorcycle accident attorney. Speak with our experienced legal team and find out how we can put our considerable experience to work fighting for you.
The attorneys at Goings Law Firm, LLC have committed their careers to helping injured people in Columbia and the surrounding areas. You are our friends, neighbors, and family; we know how hard you work for your paycheck. Our law firm understands how difficult it can be to recover on your own. We know that these types of accidents can seriously impact both the victim and their family. When pursuing a motorcycle accident claim, you should understand the various factors that influence compensation. This can include both economic and noneconomic losses.
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident in South Carolina, don’t wait to contact us at (803) 350-9230. A Columbia motorcycle accident lawyer from Goings Law Firm, LLC will get the best possible outcome for your case. Securing legal representation is essential to navigate the complexities of insurance claims and legal proceedings. We can ensure that your interests are protected against profit-driven insurance companies.
Related Posts:
- How Medical Bills Are Paid After a Motor Vehicle Accident
- Tips to Prevent Motorcycle Accidents
- Tips For Talking to Your Doctor About Your Accident Injuries
- The Importance of Obtaining and Organizing Medical Documents After an Accident
- Understanding Motorcycle Laws and Their Impact on Legal Claims
