Charleston motorcycle accidents frequently happen when car and truck operators violate standard traffic laws or drive recklessly. In a motorcycle accident scenario, the motorcyclist usually suffers injuries.
Motorcyclists have extremely limited protection. If they strike the ground with a significant amount of force in an accident, they stand to suffer debilitating and sometimes permanent injuries.
If you recently sustained injuries in a motorcycle crash, you may be eligible for compensation. The skilled Charleston motorcycle accident attorneys at Morris Law Accident and Injury Lawyers can aggressively advocate for your interests at every stage of the proceedings and work to secure the compensation you need.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with our experienced Charleston motorcycle accident attorneys, please reach out to our firm today.
Charleston Motorcycle Accident Guide
- Why Select Our Charleston Motorcycle Accident Lawyers to Represent You?
- How Much Is a Charleston Motorcycle Accident Case Worth?
- Most Common Locations for Motorcycle Accidents in Charleston
- Types of Charleston Motorcycle Collisions
- Injuries in Charleston Motorcycle Accidents
- Fighting the Insurance Company after a Motorcycle Accident in Charleston
- Steps to Take after a Charleston Motorcycle Accident
- Contact Our Charleston Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Today
Why Select Our Charleston Motorcycle Accident Lawyers to Represent You?
When it comes to legal representation following a motorcycle accident, you want a strong team of attorneys in your corner. At Morris Law Accident and Injury Lawyers, we understand how insurance companies work – and that they frequently make lowball offers.
We can aggressively negotiate on your behalf or threaten the insurance company with litigation if they refuse to offer you fair compensation. We are also not afraid to take your case to trial, assuming that step becomes necessary in your case.
Our legal team members limit the number of cases that they take on annually. This allows them to approach each motorcycle accident case with the individualized attention it deserves.
Some of our most recent client testimonials can be found by clicking here.
Let us help you recover the compensation you need for your motorcycle accident injuries right away. We have convenient offices throughout the state to best serve our injured clients and their families.
How Much Is a Charleston Motorcycle Accident Case Worth?
When someone is in a motorcycle accident in Charleston due to another person’s carelessness, they can seek compensation for the losses they’ve suffered. These losses fall into three main categories: economic damages, non-economic damages, and punitive damages.
First, economic damages refer to the financial losses directly tied to the motorcycle accident. This includes medical bills, which can cover ambulance rides, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and any ongoing treatment – like physical therapy.
Additionally, economic damages may cover lost income if the injured motorcyclist is unable to work due to their injuries. If the injuries are severe enough to affect future earning potential, compensation for diminished earning capacity may also be included.
Secondly, non-economic damages are more intangible losses that are not easily quantifiable. These can include pain and suffering, which encompasses physical pain and emotional distress resulting from motorcycle accidents and injuries.
Other non-economic damages may include loss of life enjoyment, which refers to the inability to participate in activities or hobbies that were once enjoyed prior to the accident. Disfigurement or permanent disability resulting from the motorcycle accident may also be a consideration in non-economic damages.
Lastly, punitive damages are less common and are awarded to punish the at-fault party for particularly egregious behavior. These damages are meant to deter similar behavior in the future and are typically awarded in cases where the at-fault party’s actions were willful, wanton, or reckless.
In a motorcycle accident case, you may receive punitive damages if the at-fault party drove under the influence of drugs or alcohol or if they engage in reckless behavior, such as excessive speeding or street racing.
The skilled Charleston motorcycle accident attorneys at Morris Law Accident and Injury Lawyers will work hard to maximize the compensation award you receive for your losses.
Most Common Locations for Motorcycle Accidents in Charleston
In Charleston, South Carolina, motorcycle accidents often occur in various locations, with certain highways and roads standing out as particularly common hotspots for these occurrences.
One of the most common locations for motorcycle accidents in Charleston is on major highways, such as Interstate 26 (I-26) and Interstate 526 (I-526).
These highways see high volumes of traffic, including motorcycles, and the higher speeds involved can increase the severity of accidents. Additionally, the interchange areas where these highways meet other roads can be prone to collisions as vehicles merge and change lanes.
Another frequent site for motorcycle accidents is on local roads with heavy traffic, such as Savannah Highway (US-17) and Sam Rittenberg Boulevard.
These roads often have multiple lanes of traffic moving in different directions, presenting challenges for other drivers who must navigate safely around motorcyclists. Intersections along these roads can also be particularly hazardous, as drivers may fail to yield or make left turns in front of oncoming motorcycles.
Parking lots and residential areas are also common sites for motorcycle accidents in Charleston. Drivers backing out of parking spaces or making turns within neighborhoods may not always be on the lookout for motorcycles, leading to collisions.
If you suffered injuries in a motorcycle collision that occurred at one of these locations, our legal team can promptly investigate your circumstances and file a claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company.
Types of Charleston Motorcycle Collisions
In Charleston, South Carolina, motorcycle accidents can occur in some places more than others.
- One of the most common types of motorcycle accidents in Charleston involves traffic intersection collisions. These accidents often occur when a motorcyclist is passing through an intersection and a vehicle driver fails to yield the right-of-way, such as by running a stop sign or red light. In these situations, the effects can be severe – especially if the vehicle strikes the motorcycle at a high speed.
- Head-on collisions are another significant category of motorcycle accidents in Charleston. These collisions occur when a motorcycle and another vehicle collide front to front. Head-on collisions are often catastrophic for motorcyclists due to the disparity in size and protection between motorcycles and other vehicles. Factors such as distracted driving, impaired driving, or reckless overtaking on two-lane roads can contribute to these accidents.
- Rear-end accidents involving motorcycles are also common in Charleston. These accidents occur when a vehicle strikes the rear of a motorcycle, often while both vehicles are traveling in the same direction. Rear-end accidents can happen at intersections, stoplights, or in heavy traffic when drivers fail to maintain a safe following distance or become distracted.
- Sideswipe accidents, where a vehicle collides with the side of a motorcycle, are prevalent on Charleston roads as well. These accidents can occur when a driver changes lanes without properly checking blind spots or fails to give enough space when passing a motorcycle. Sideswipe accidents can cause motorcyclists to lose control and crash, leading to serious injuries or fatalities.
- Broadside collisions, also known as T-bone accidents, are another category of motorcycle accidents in Charleston that result from driver negligence. These accidents occur when a vehicle strikes the side of a motorcycle, often at an intersection, or when a vehicle driver fails to yield to the motorcyclist while making a turn. Broadside collisions can be particularly dangerous for motorcyclists due to the lack of protection from the impact.
At Morris Law Accident and Injury Lawyers, our team can determine the potential legal options for your case, based upon your accident circumstances and the injuries which you suffered.
Injuries in Charleston Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents in Charleston, South Carolina, can lead to a range of physical, mental, and emotional injuries for those involved.
- Physical injuries commonly include abrasions, cuts, and bruises, often referred to as road rash, due to the lack of protection afforded by motorcycles.
- Fractures and broken bones are also frequent, particularly in the limbs and extremities.
- More severe injuries – such as spinal cord damage or traumatic brain injuries – can also occur, frequently leading to long-term disabilities or even paralysis.
- Mentally, the trauma of being involved in a motorcycle accident can lead to conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Flashbacks, nightmares, and anxiety about riding again are common symptoms that motorcycle accident survivors experience. Additionally, the stress of dealing with medical bills, insurance claims, and legal proceedings can exacerbate mental health issues.
- Emotionally, the aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be overwhelming. Feelings of anger, frustration, and sadness are normal reactions to the physical pain and emotional trauma that victims experience. For some, the loss of independence or the inability to engage in activities they once enjoyed can lead to feelings of depression and hopelessness.
The effects of a motorcycle accident aren’t limited to the immediate aftermath; it can have lasting effects on the individual’s life and relationships. Support from loved ones, counseling, and therapy are essential for coping with the emotional toll of a motorcycle accident in Charleston.
Fighting the Insurance Company after a Motorcycle Accident in Charleston
After a motorcycle accident in Charleston, South Carolina, fighting the at-fault driver’s insurance company for fair compensation can be daunting. However, an experienced Charleston motorcycle accident attorney can greatly assist in this endeavor.
First, a motorcycle accident lawyer understands the complications of insurance policies and can handle the legal process on behalf of the injured motorcyclist. Specifically, they know how to gather evidence, negotiate with insurance company adjusters, and advocate for their injured client’s rights.
Additionally, an attorney can assess the full extent of damages that the victim suffered in the accident. This includes not only current medical expenses and lost income but also future medical treatments, rehabilitation costs, and any long-term disabilities that may result from the injuries sustained.
Moreover, a motorcycle accident attorney can protect the injured party’s interests by handling all communication with the insurance company. This prevents the individual from inadvertently saying or doing something that may jeopardize their claim.
Furthermore, if the insurance company refuses to offer a fair settlement, an attorney can file a lawsuit and represent the injured party in court. They have the legal knowledge and trial experience to effectively present the case and pursue maximum compensation for their client’s injuries and losses.
At Morris Law Accident and Injury Lawyers, we can provide invaluable support and guidance throughout the claims process, ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive the full compensation you deserve.
Steps to Take after a Charleston Motorcycle Accident
After leaving the scene of a motorcycle accident and seeking initial medical treatment for your injuries:
- Document the Accident – If possible, take photos of the accident scene, including any damage to your motorcycle and the other vehicle(s) involved. Gather contact information from witnesses who saw what happened.
- Report the Accident – Notify the police about the accident, even if it seems minor. A police report can provide valuable documentation for your insurance claim.
- Seek Medical Attention – Even if you don’t feel seriously injured, it’s essential to undergo a thorough medical evaluation. Some injuries, like internal bleeding or a concussion, may not immediately manifest but can have serious consequences if left untreated.
- Follow All Medical Advice – Adhere to all treatment recommendations from your healthcare provider. Attend follow-up appointments, take prescribed medications, and follow any physical therapy or rehabilitation plans.
- Notify Your Insurance Company – Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. Provide them with accurate details about the accident and your injuries, but avoid admitting fault.
By taking these important steps after leaving the scene of a motorcycle accident and seeking medical treatment, you can ensure that your well-being is prioritized and begin the process of recovering physically, emotionally, and financially from your motorcycle collision.
At Morris Law Accident and Injury Lawyers, we can protect your rights, negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf, and pursue compensation for your accident-related damages.
Contact Our Charleston Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Today
If you recently sustained injuries in a Charleston motorcycle crash, you need to retain legal counsel as quickly as possible. The skilled attorneys at Morris Law Accident and Injury Lawyers can aggressively advocate for your interests – and, if necessary, pursue litigation in the court system – to secure the compensation you need for your losses.
For a free case evaluation and legal consultation with a Charleston personal injury lawyer, please contact us today at (843) 466-4444.
