Newport Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

Motorcyclists know that all-too-many drivers in four-wheeled vehicles don’t see them on the road. As a result, most motorcycle riders are extra safe when they take to the road. But even the safest motorcyclist faces some risk of being hit by careless car drivers.

When that happens, the motorcycle accident attorneys at Merk & Gile, Injury Attorneys, step in to hold the negligent driver accountable and get fair compensation for the survivor or their family. From our law offices in Newport and Cincinnati, we stand up for motorcycle crash victims in the Cincinnati metropolitan area and throughout Kentucky and Ohio.

When Can A Motorcyclist Seek Compensation For A Traffic Accident?

People often assume that a traffic accident has to involve a collision in order for the victim to seek compensation. However, many motorcyclists are hurt or killed because they took evasive action to avoid being hit by a negligent driver. A motorcyclist may lay their bike down in hopes of preventing a collision. Instead, they may still end up with road rash, broken bones or any number of other injuries. Laying a motorcycle down at high speeds can even result in death.

Of course, many times the negligent driver will hit the motorcyclist. Drivers of cars often do not see motorcyclists, particularly when the car driver is turning or changing lanes. In reality, they do not see motorcyclists because they do not look for motorcyclists. As a result, they turn into the motorcyclist and cause an accident, or move into the motorcyclist’s lane and push the motorcyclist off the road or into another motor vehicle. Even when the motorcycle rider is wearing a helmet, the results of these traffic accidents can be devastating for them.

What Compensation Is Available For Motorcycle Accident Victims?

Similar to others on the road, motorcycle accident victims may be entitled to various forms of compensation depending on the specifics of the accident and the extent of their injuries. Here are some common types of compensation that may be available:

1. Medical expenses: Coverage for emergency room visits, hospital stays, surgeries, and other immediate medical treatments not covered by insurance, as well as the costs for ongoing treatments, rehabilitation, physical therapy and any necessary medical equipment.
2. Lost wages: Compensation for wages lost due to the inability to work while recovering from injuries, as well as compensation for potential future earnings if the injuries result in long-term or permanent disability.
3. Pain and suffering: Compensation for the physical pain endured because of the accident as well as for mental anguish, emotional distress, and loss of enjoyment of life caused by the accident and injuries.
4. Property damage: There is coverage for the repair or replacement of the motorcycle and any other personal property damaged in the accident.
5. Loss of consortium: Compensation for the loss of companionship, affection, and support suffered by the spouse of the injured victim.
6. Punitive damages: The at-fault party’s behavior may be especially reckless or egregious, so the court awards punitive damages to punish the wrongdoer.
7. Wrongful death: Motorcycle injury victims are 27 times more likely to die from accidents than car injury victims. Regardless of the vehicle, surviving family members may be entitled to compensation for funeral and burial expenses, loss of financial support, and loss of companionship.

It is advisable for motorcycle accident victims in Kentucky and Ohio to consult with a personal injury attorney who can help navigate the legal process, evaluate the full extent of damages, and advocate for fair compensation.

Motorcycle accident injuries are different

Motorcycle accident cases often differ due to the unique nature of motorcycles and the risks associated with riding them. Here are some key differences:

1. Severity of injuries: Motorcyclists are more exposed and less protected than occupants of cars and trucks, leading to a higher likelihood of serious injuries, which results in higher medical costs, longer recovery times and increased likelihood of death.
2. Perception and bias: Some assume that motorcyclists are more reckless or responsible for their accidents, impacting how insurance companies, juries and law enforcement view an injury case. It is also why riders have a greater need for strong legal representation to ensure their rights are protected and to counter any negative perceptions.
3. Insurance: Personal Injury Protection (PIP) coverage, standard in car accidents, is not typically mandatory for motorcyclists. This can affect the availability of certain benefits. Given the higher risk of severe injury, having adequate uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage is particularly important for motorcyclists.
4. Accident reconstruction: Motorcycle accidents may require specialized accident reconstruction experts who understand the dynamics of motorcycle crashes, including factors like speed, angle of impact, and rider behavior.
5. Protective gear: Helmets and other protective gear can impact the case, especially if helmet use is legally required and the rider was not wearing one at the time of the accident.
6. Legal and regulatory differences: Motorcyclists must adhere to specific traffic laws that may not apply to other motor vehicles, and violations can affect the outcome of a case.

Understanding these and other differences is crucial for effectively handling motorcycle accident injury cases. If you or a loved one was hit or otherwise hurt by a negligent driver while riding a motorcycle, you may have the right to pursue compensation for medical bills, lost wages and other costs.

Contact Us For A Free Consultation About Your Motorcycle Accident Case

Fighting for the injured is not just our job; it’s our passion. Learn more by calling us at 513-838-2511 or by sending us an email. The consultation is free.