South Carolina Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
The thrill of enjoying the open road and temperate South Carolina weather draws many motorcycle enthusiasts out for a ride, but there are considerable risks associated with your favorite activity. According to the South Carolina Department of Public Safety, one motorcycle rider is killed every three days statewide, and there are more than 150 fatalities and injured victims in Charleston County every year. The lack of a metal barrier and certainty of being ejected all but ensure the rider will sustain severe, life-threatening injuries.
If you were hurt in a motorcycle collision, it may come as some comfort to know that you have the legal right to seek monetary damages. Your losses could be extensive, so trust our team at the Gus Anastopoulo Law Firm for assistance with the process. Please contact our Charleston office right away to set up a free case review with a South Carolina motorcycle accident lawyer. Some information on factors behind these crashes and potential legal complications may also be helpful.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Though the exact factors may vary, motorcycle crashes occur because of driver negligence. The term has a very specific meaning in law, since it requires you to prove that the collision was the direct result of the at-fault motorist’s failure to drive with reasonable care. Some examples of driver negligence that often causes motorcycle accidents include:
- Speeding;
- Driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs;
- Failure to yield right of way;
- Erratic, unlawful lane changes;
- Passing in a no-passing zone;
- Texting, talking, or otherwise using a cell phone while driving;
- Other forms of distracted driving, such as eating, grooming, and using a GPS.
Complications in the Legal Process After a Motorcycle Crash
Because it is a type of motor vehicle collision, motorcycle accidents proceed in much the same way. Your first step is filing a claim with the responsible motorist’s insurance company. The process may seem as simple as filling out some forms, but the claims adjuster will meticulously scrutinize the information to protect the insurer’s financial interests. Companies often deny motorcycle crash claims in particular because of bias and the perception that riders are daredevils. The insurer may accuse you of causing the accident or give other grounds for a denial. The Gus Anastopoulo Law Firm is skilled at dealing with insurance companies, so we will diligently work to negotiate settlement.
If the insurer refuses to pay fair compensation, you may need to file a lawsuit in court to recover monetary damages. Our South Carolina motorcycle accident attorneys will advocate on your behalf to ensure you receive amounts for medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses.
Get Legal Help from a South Carolina Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
This overview may be useful regarding the basics, but the complications with motorcycle collisions can put your rights at risk. To learn how the Gus Anastopoulo Law Firm supports accident victims, please call our office at 843-310-5555 or visit us online. You can schedule a no-cost consultation with an attorney who can explain your legal remedies.
