North Carolina Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

Motorcyclists are among the most vulnerable people on the road. It only takes one negligent driver to cause an accident that leaves a motorcyclist with serious and sometimes fatal injuries. If you’ve been hurt due to another’s negligence, you deserve financial compensation. But recovering the compensation you deserve is a complicated process.

The experienced North Carolina motorcycle accident lawyer at Brent Adams & Associates know how to handle insurance companies. Since our founding in 1973, we’ve been fighting to help clients recover the maximum compensation possible from negligent drivers and their insurance carriers.

We also pursue compensation from all possible sources of insurance, including the client’s own insurance and their employer’s disability and health and accident insurance policies. We know the law.

What causes bad motorcycle accidents?

There are times when an accident is the result of bad driving on the motorcyclist’s part, but often it’s because of the negligent driving of someone else. Many times, a driver is not paying close enough attention to the road and doesn’t see the motorcycle. The driver may have been texting behind the wheel or talking on the phone.

Other examples of driver negligence include speeding and aggressive driving, such as unsafe lane changes or failure to yield. Some drivers were under the influence of alcohol or drugs. In dooring accidents, motorcyclists are hurt because a driver opens the door of a parked car without checking for oncoming motorcycles.

Can I sue the driver who caused my motorcycle accident?

Yes. You can seek financial compensation for all of the damages you suffered as a result of the accident. These damages may include current and future medical expenses and lost wages if you couldn’t work. You may also be able to recover compensation for other types of damages, such as pain and suffering.

In North Carolina, you have three years from the date of your accident to take legal action. That sounds like a long time. But in a matter of months, evidence can be lost or destroyed and the memories of witnesses can fade. That’s why it’s important to get legal advice as soon as possible after you’ve been injured.

Will the insurance company pay for all damages?

Insurance adjusters have a job – and it’s not to pay you everything you are owed after being hurt in a motorcycle crash. Their job is actually to pay you as little as possible to help the insurance company save money and protect their profit margins. And there are many tactics they use to try to do that.

Insurance companies take the position that motorcyclists are often risky drivers, so they’ll try to blame you for what happened. Another tactic is to minimize your injuries or motorcycle accident claims that they were pre-existing. Or maybe they’ll offer you a lowball settlement. It’s in your best interests to have a motorcycle accident lawyer who knows how to respond to insurance company tactics.

Understanding Liability and Legal Actions in Motorcycle Accident Cases

When pursuing a personal injury lawsuit after a motorcycle accident, establishing liability is crucial. Liability means proving that the other driver or party was negligent and caused the accident. This can involve demonstrating that the other driver failed to follow traffic laws, was distracted driving, or was impaired.

In North Carolina, the law follows a strict contributory negligence rule. This means that if you are found to be even 1% at fault for the accident, you may be barred from recovering any compensation. Therefore, having an experienced motorcycle accident attorney who can thoroughly investigate the accident, gather evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and accident scene photos, and build a strong case is essential.

The Role of Insurance and Compensation Sources

Besides the at-fault driver’s liability insurance, there may be other sources of compensation available. For instance, if the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured, your own uninsured motorist coverage could provide benefits. Additionally, claims may be made against motorcycle manufacturers if a defect contributed to the accident.

An experienced North Carolina motorcycle accident lawyer can help identify all potential sources of compensation and ensure that you pursue the maximum recovery possible for your injuries and losses.

Importance of Timely Legal Action

While North Carolina law allows three years to file a lawsuit, acting promptly is important. Evidence can degrade over time, witnesses may become unavailable, and memories can fade, all of which can weaken your case. Early legal consultation helps preserve crucial evidence and strengthens your claim.

How a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Help

A skilled motorcycle accident attorney can handle communications with insurance companies and adjusters, who often use tactics to minimize payouts. They can negotiate fair settlements or take your case to court if necessary. Their knowledge of North Carolina motorcycle laws and experience with motorcycle accident claims can significantly improve your chances of obtaining fair compensation.

Having legal representation also helps alleviate the stress of dealing with insurance companies and the legal process, allowing you to focus on your recovery.

Can motorcycle accidents be prevented?

If you are reading this, you or someone you love was most likely injured in a North Carolina motorcycle crash. This is an emotionally traumatic time and we know it is difficult to focus on prevention when you are recovering or helping a loved one get well. We have created a few tips for you to share with friends and family to help prevent future motorcycle accidents:

Drive defensively. The more you watch out for what other drivers are doing, the better chances you have to avoid a collision.
Obey the speed limit. Obviously, if you’re involved in a motorcycle accident and it is proven that you were driving above the speed limit, your chances of your case coming out on top may be less.
Take into account the weather and/or road conditions. Motorcyclists can succumb to bad weather or poor road conditions more easily than those driving automobiles. Drive according to the environment you’re in.
Wear a helmet. North Carolina requires helmets, so obey the law and protect your head.
Stay calm. If you are in an accident, try to remain calm. Having a clear head when speaking to law enforcement officers can greatly help your case.

Are motorcycle accident injuries more serious than car accident injuries?

Generally speaking, the injuries received in motorcycle accidents are much more severe than those from car accidents. The frame of a car provides some protection for drivers and passengers in a collision. But motorcyclists have very little protection out on the road. They may be hit directly by a car or the impact may throw them off their bike and onto the ground.

It can take months or years to recover from injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident. Some motorcycle accident victims are left with a permanent disability. Many people need surgery, hospitalization, medication, physical therapy and multiple follow-up appointments with doctors. Medical expenses can become overwhelming.

Because motorcycles lack the protective shell that passenger vehicles offer, riders are exposed to greater risks during a crash. This exposure often leads to catastrophic injuries such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, and internal injuries that can have lifelong consequences. Even with the use of helmets and protective gear, the force of impact can cause severe damage.

Moreover, motorcycle accident victims frequently suffer from multiple injuries simultaneously, complicating their medical treatment and recovery process. The emotional trauma following such accidents can be profound, impacting mental health and overall quality of life.

In contrast, car crashes, while potentially serious, often provide occupants with airbags, seat belts, and a sturdy frame that help reduce the severity of injuries. This difference in protection is a major reason why motorcycle crashes result in a higher rate of severe injuries and fatalities.

Understanding the increased risks faced by motorcycle riders underscores the importance of safe riding practices, adherence to traffic laws, and the use of appropriate safety equipment. It also highlights why injured riders need experienced legal representation to navigate the complexities of their claims and secure the compensation necessary to cover extensive medical care and future medical costs.

Experienced attorneys who focus on maximum compensation

Many motorcycle accident cases are resolved through a negotiated settlement. Some law firms are settlement firms. Insurance companies know that these firms won’t take them to trial, so they offer lower settlements. We are not a settlement firm. If the insurance company tries to lowball you, we are not afraid to take them to court.

If a motorcycle accident has affected your quality of life, or if a loved one has been severely injured or killed in a motorcycle accident, we can help. Whether you drive a Harley or a Honda, a sport bike or a cruiser, our North Carolina motorcycle accident lawyers will do everything we can to make sure you are protected to the full extent under the law.

There’s no cost and no obligation when you talk to us. We can review the details of your motorcycle crash and go over your legal options for pursuing financial compensation. We can also answer any questions you have. If we do represent you, you still owe us nothing unless we get results. We work on a contingency fee basis.

Our firm is proud to represent safe and responsible motorcyclists who have been in accidents, and fight for them to get the maximum benefits available under North Carolina law. We want them to continue to be able to experience the unique freedom they have on the open road. today to schedule a free consultation at one of our office locations.

Common motorcycle accident injuries

Road Rash:
- Abrasions caused by the skin scraping against the pavement. This can range from mild to severe, often requiring medical treatment to prevent infection and minimize scarring.
Fractures:
- Broken bones are common in motorcycle accidents due to the impact force. Common fractures include arms, legs, wrists, and collarbones.
Head Injuries:
- These can range from concussions to traumatic brain injuries (TBI). Even with a helmet, the impact can cause significant brain trauma.
Spinal Cord Injuries:
- Damage to the spinal cord can result in partial or complete paralysis. These injuries often have long-term consequences and require extensive rehabilitation.
Internal Injuries:
- Internal bleeding and damage to organs such as the liver, spleen, or kidneys can occur due to the blunt force trauma of an accident.
Biker’s Arm:
- Nerve damage in the upper arms caused by falling on an outstretched hand. This can result in long-term nerve damage and loss of function.
Leg Injuries:
- Broken legs, knees, and feet are common due to the exposed position of the lower body. These injuries often require surgery and lengthy rehabilitation.
Facial Injuries:
- Without a full-face helmet, riders can suffer severe facial injuries, including fractures, lacerations, and dental injuries, often requiring reconstructive surgery.
Burns:
- Contact with the hot engine, exhaust pipes, or road surface can cause burns. These may be minor or severe, requiring medical treatment.
Lacerations and Bruises:
- Cuts and bruises are common and can range from minor to severe, sometimes needing stitches or other medical intervention.
Whiplash:
- A neck injury caused by the sudden jerking motion of the head. This can lead to chronic pain and mobility issues.
Dislocations:
- Joints, such as the shoulder or knee, can be dislocated due to the impact or from the force of falling.
Pelvic Injuries:
- The pelvis can be fractured or crushed in a motorcycle accident, often requiring extensive surgery and rehabilitation.

Understanding these potential injuries highlights the importance of proper safety gear and cautious riding. If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, seek immediate medical attention and consult with a legal professional to understand your rights.

Contact a North Carolina Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today to Discuss your Motorcycle Accident Claims

If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident in North Carolina, it is crucial to seek the guidance of an experienced motorcycle accident attorney as soon as possible. Navigating the legal process after a motorcycle collision can be complex, especially given the strict contributory negligence laws in the state and the unique challenges motorcyclists face.

An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can help you gather important evidence such as police reports, medical records, and accident scene photos to build a strong personal injury claim. They understand how to deal with insurance companies and insurance adjusters who may try to minimize your claim or place unfair blame on the motorcyclist.

With their assistance, you can pursue fair compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, emotional trauma, and other damages resulting from the accident.

Whether your case involves severe injuries like head injuries, spinal cord injuries, or catastrophic injuries, or even a wrongful death claim, having a knowledgeable attorney on your side can make a significant difference.

They will guide you through every step of the legal process—from filing a motorcycle accident lawsuit to negotiating a fair settlement or taking your case to court if necessary.

Don’t wait to get the help you need. Contact a trusted North Carolina motorcycle accident attorney today for a free consultation to discuss your rights and options. Protect yourself and ensure that your claim is handled with the care and expertise it deserves.