Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Lexington, NC
Riding a motorcycle offers unparalleled freedom and connection to the open road. However, that freedom comes with increased risks. Unlike cars, motorcycles provide little protection in the event of a crash. This vulnerability means that even minor accidents can lead to severe injuries.
Motorcycle accidents often involve unique factors such as road hazards, limited visibility, and driver negligence. Whether it’s a distracted driver failing to see you at an intersection or hazardous road conditions causing a skid, the consequences can be catastrophic. Our Lexington motorcycle accident lawyer understands these challenges and is ready to help you seek justice.
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Hurt in the middle of the night? Don’t wait to call an attorney. A real person is available 24/7 and will answer your call.
Years of
Experience
Our team has decades of experience fighting insurance companies and has successfully completed thousands of cases.
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Working on a contingency fee basis allows our clients to retain our services without worrying about hourly legal fees. You won’t owe us a penny unless we win.
Table of Contents
What To Do If There Is a Motorcycle Accident
A motorcycle accident in Lexington, NC, can be chaotic, but taking the right steps immediately afterward can positively impact your recovery and potential legal case. Here’s what to do:
- Ensure Safety First:
Move yourself and your bike out of traffic if possible. Turn on your hazard lights and ensure you’re in a safe place. If you or others are seriously injured, avoid moving and wait for emergency responders. - Call 911:
Reporting the accident ensures that law enforcement will document the scene and emergency services will provide medical care. This official police report can be vital for your case. - Gather Evidence:
Take photos of the accident scene, your motorcycle, any involved vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses and involved parties. - Seek Medical Attention Immediately:
Even if you feel fine, injuries like internal bleeding, concussions, or spinal damage may not be immediately apparent. A thorough medical evaluation will protect your health and provide documentation for your claim. - Contact a Lexington Motorcycle Accident Lawyer:
The best motorcycle accident lawyer should have the ability to help you navigate complex legal and insurance processes. By contacting us early, we can help preserve evidence, deal with insurance adjusters, and build a strong case for you.
What To Expect From a Motorcycle Accident Settlement
Motorcycle accident settlements are designed to compensate victims for the unique and often severe injuries they suffer. Unlike other types of vehicle accidents, motorcycle crashes frequently involve catastrophic injuries due to the lack of protective barriers. Here’s what may be covered:
- Medical Expenses:
This includes emergency care, surgeries, hospital stays, physical therapy, and long-term care for severe injuries like spinal cord damage or traumatic brain injuries. - Lost Wages and Earning Potential:
Motorcycle accidents often result in long recovery periods or permanent disabilities. Settlements can cover both past income lost and future earning potential if your ability to work is impacted. - Pain and Suffering:
Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident. This is especially relevant in cases involving disfigurement or chronic pain. - Property Damage:
Coverage for repairs or replacement of your motorcycle, as well as damaged gear like helmets, jackets, and other protective equipment. - Punitive Damages:
In cases of gross negligence or reckless behavior by the at-fault party, additional punitive damages may be awarded to deter similar conduct in the future.
Each case is different, and a skilled Lexington motorcycle accident lawyer can help ensure your settlement reflects the full extent of your losses.
Our Results Speak For themselves
$
7000000
Motorcycle accident resulting in paralysis.
$
3000000
Auto accident resulting in post traumatic stress disorder.
$
1393000
Workplace accident resulting in a traumatic brain injury.
North Carolina Motorcycle Laws
Understanding the specific motorcycle laws in North Carolina can help protect your rights and ensure compliance on the road:
- Insurance Requirements: Riders must carry liability insurance that meets state minimums. However, underinsured motorist coverage is crucial as it protects you when the at-fault driver lacks sufficient insurance.
- Contributory Negligence Law: North Carolina follows a strict contributory negligence rule. If you’re found even 1% at fault, you may be barred from recovering damages. A skilled lawyer can challenge claims of contributory negligence to ensure you get the compensation you may deserve.
- Helmet Law: North Carolina mandates that all motorcyclists and their passengers wear helmets that meet DOT standards. This is not only a legal requirement but also a critical safety measure.
- Full Lane Use and Passing: Motorcycles are entitled to the full use of a lane, and it’s illegal for a vehicle to infringe upon that space. Riders should also avoid lane splitting, as it’s prohibited in NC.
- Statute of Limitations: You have 3 years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury claim. Missing this deadline can result in losing your right to compensation.
These laws can impact your case significantly, and our Lexington motorcycle accident lawyer is here to help you navigate them.
Safety Tips: Motorcycle Riders & Drivers
Motorcycle safety requires vigilance from both riders and drivers sharing the road. Here’s how to stay safe:
For Motorcycle Riders:
- Wear Protective Gear: Invest in high-quality helmets, jackets, gloves, and boots to minimize injury risks.
- Be Visible: Use reflective clothing and keep your headlights on, even during the day.
- Practice Defensive Riding: Assume drivers may not see you and keep a safe distance.
- Stay Sober and Alert: Avoid riding under the influence of drugs or alcohol, and stay focused.
For Drivers Sharing the Road:
- Check Blind Spots: Motorcycles are smaller and can easily be missed when changing lanes.
- Give Space: Leave a safe following distance, especially in adverse weather conditions.
- Respect Motorcyclists’ Right to the Lane: Never try to share a lane or pass too closely.
These tips can reduce the risk of accidents and help everyone stay safe on the road.
Our Experienced Attorneys Are on Your Side
Choosing the right motorcycle accident lawyer in Lexington can make a significant difference in your case. At Lewis & Keller, we bring years of experience handling motorcycle accident claims. We understand the unique challenges these cases present and are dedicated to maximizing your compensation. From dealing with insurance companies to representing you in court, we are with you every step of the way.
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Motorcycle Accident Injuries & Causes
Motorcycle accidents can result in severe and often life-altering injuries, such as:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Even with a helmet, the impact of a crash can cause serious brain injuries.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: These can lead to partial or complete paralysis.
- Road Rash: Severe abrasions can cause permanent scarring or infections.
- Fractures and Broken Bones: Common in accidents where riders are thrown from their bikes.
Accidents are often caused by negligent behaviors such as distracted driving, impaired driving, or failure to yield. They can even be caused by factors like road conditions or defective parts. Our Lexington motorcycle accident lawyers can investigate the exact cause of your accident to hold the responsible party accountable.
our Lexington Motorcycle accident attorneys
Lexington, NC, Motorcycle Accident FAQs
How Much Are Most Motorcycle Accident Settlements?
The average motorcycle accident settlement varies depending on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, the extent of property damage, and the level of negligence by the other party. Settlements can range from a few thousand dollars for minor injuries to millions for catastrophic cases involving long-term disability.
Factors that could increase your settlement:
- Severe or permanent injuries (e.g., spinal cord damage or traumatic brain injuries).
- Significant medical expenses, including surgeries, rehabilitation, and long-term care.
- Clear evidence of negligence by the other party, such as DUI or reckless driving.
Factors that could decrease your settlement:
- Contributory negligence (if you’re found partially at fault).
- Limited insurance coverage from the at-fault driver.
Our Lexington motorcycle accident lawyer can evaluate your case to provide a better understanding of what your settlement could look like.
What Does a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Do?
A motorcycle accident lawyer helps accident victims secure fair compensation. Here’s what a Lexington motorcycle accident lawyer from Lewis & Keller can do for you:
- Investigate Your Case:
We gather evidence, including accident reports, witness statements, and medical records, to build a strong case. - Negotiate with Insurance Companies:
Insurance companies often try to minimize payouts. We handle all negotiations to help ensure you’re not pressured into accepting a low settlement. - Assess Damages:
Beyond immediate medical bills, we consider future medical costs, lost wages, and non-economic damages like pain and suffering. - Represent You in Court (If Necessary):
While many cases are settled out of court, we’re prepared to take your case to trial to fight for the compensation you may deserve.
What Does a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Cost?
Our motorcycle accident lawyers operate on a contingency fee basis. This means:
- No Upfront Costs: You won’t pay anything unless we win your case.
- Contingency Fee: Our fee is a percentage of your settlement or court award.
- Transparent Agreement: We’ll explain the fee structure clearly during your consultation, so there are no surprises.
This structure allows you to pursue justice without worrying about the financial burden of hiring a lawyer.
Do Motorcycle Riders Have To Wear a Helmet in NC?
Yes, North Carolina law requires all motorcycle riders and passengers to wear helmets that meet DOT (Department of Transportation) standards. Failing to wear a helmet can result in fines and may impact your case.
PUT AN AWARD-WINNING FIRM ON YOUR SIDE
Lewis & Keller is a recognized Best Law Firm in Eminent Domain and Condemnation Law, as well as Personal Injury Litigation-Plainitffs by U.S. News and World Report. The firm has also been given an AV rating from Martindale-Hubbell.
Founding partner Mike Lewis has procured the title of one of the Best Lawyers in America for personal injury litigation and eminent domain, and was also distinguished as a North Carolina Super Lawyer in personal injury. These accolades wouldn’t have been possible without the hard work of all of the attorneys at Lewis & Keller and their clients who placed their trust in them.
