Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Motorcycle accidents pose distinct legal challenges that can leave riders in difficult situations. Navigating issues such as helmet laws, comparative negligence (shared fault), wrongful accusations, and serious injury claims requires specialized legal expertise. For those seeking legal assistance, Price & Beckstrom offers insights into these critical areas to help you make informed decisions and find the right representation.
Understanding Helmet Laws and Their Impact on Claims
Helmet laws differ widely from state to state, making it essential for motorcyclists to know the rules where they ride. In Nevada, for instance, DOT-certified helmets are mandatory for all riders and passengers. This requirement can play a significant role in personal injury claims after an accident.
If you’re involved in a motorcycle accident, whether you wore a helmet can affect your compensation. Not wearing one might lead to claims that your injuries were more severe than they would have been otherwise, which could potentially reduce your compensation. Insurance companies and courts often assess how a helmet might have lessened injuries.
Still, not wearing a helmet doesn’t automatically bar you from receiving damages. A knowledgeable motorcycle accident lawyer can argue that the other party’s negligence was the primary cause of the accident and that helmet use didn’t significantly worsen your injuries.
Comparative Negligence (Shared Fault) in Motorcycle Accidents
In motorcycle accidents, determining who is at fault can be complicated, especially when both parties share some responsibility. Nevada follows a modified comparative negligence rule, allowing you to recover damages if you’re less than 51% at fault. However, the court will adjust your compensation based on your level of fault.
Consider a scenario where a motorcyclist is 20% responsible for an accident due to slightly exceeding the speed limit. If the total damages are $100,000, the motorcyclist’s verdict would be $80,000 after the reduction. This highlights the importance of having a skilled bike crash attorney in NV to argue your case effectively and minimize your fault percentage.
Determining fault requires a detailed investigation, including gathering eyewitness accounts, reconstructing the accident, and analyzing traffic laws. A proficient biker injury lawyer can navigate these complexities, ensuring that you receive the compensation you deserve.
Addressing Wrongful Accusations in Bike Crashes
Motorcyclists often find themselves unfairly blamed after a crash, facing accusations of reckless driving or ignoring traffic signals. These claims can stem from biases against bikers or misunderstandings about how motorcycles operate. To counter these accusations, it’s essential to gather solid evidence from the scene, such as photos, videos, and witness statements that support the motorcyclist’s version of events.
Hiring an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer helps. They can scrutinize police reports, work with accident reconstruction experts, and pinpoint flaws in the other party’s claims. Knowing your rights and available legal defenses is also vital.
Serious Injury Claims in Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents often lead to severe injuries because riders lack the protection that cars provide. Injuries like traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord damage, fractures, and road rash can have lasting effects on victims’ lives. Knowing how to file a serious injury claim is vital to securing compensation for medical bills, lost income, and other damages.
If possible, collect evidence from the accident scene, such as photos, witness accounts, and police reports, to strengthen your claim. If you are injured, seek immediate medical attention to treat and document your injuries. Medical records will prove the severity of your injuries.
It’s essential to consult a skilled biker injury lawyer as soon as possible. They can navigate the legal complexities, assess the full extent of your damages, and negotiate with insurance companies. An experienced attorney ensures that all paperwork is filed correctly and on time, as Nevada typically has a two-year statute of limitations for personal injury claims.
The Importance of a Quality Bike Crash Attorney in NV
Dealing with the aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be overwhelming, especially when legal complexities like helmet laws and shared fault come into play. To protect your rights and secure fair compensation for any injuries and losses, you must understand these issues.
If you or someone you know has been in a motorcycle accident, seeking legal advice is crucial. Reach out to us at Price & Beckstrom for expert assistance and begin your journey toward the compensation and justice you deserve.
Image credit: // Shutterstock // dangrasan9