How To Strengthen Your Motorcycle Accident Case

It is important to know the statutes that relate to motorcyclists as there are differences that are critical when handling a motorcycle accident case.

Motorcyclists have some laws specifically directed toward them that must be followed and reviewed following a motorcycle accident.

1. The driver must complete motorcycle training and pass a test to have an endorsement or motorcycle license in North Carolina
2. They must have a motorcycle learner’s permit or motorcycle endorsement
3. All motorcyclist and their passengers must wear helmets
4. The motorcycle should be considered legal by having all the necessary equipment (brake light, headlight, taillight, horn, 2 mirrors, turn signals, brakes, the exhaust system in good working order, and illuminated registration plate)

Motorcycle Accidents Require Evidence

After a motorcycle accident has occurred, you want to make sure that you have all the above items in place. You’ll also want to make sure you preserve every bit of evidence following the accident. You want to make sure you can show you were not at fault. This evidence includes:

1.  Pictures of all vehicles involved in the accident
2. Pictures of the scene of the accident (as debris in the road can be key)
3. Names of all witnesses and statements from them regarding the accident
4. Crash computer data from all vehicles involved (accident reconstructionist can use)
5. All defective parts from the motorcycle and cars involved (engineers can use)
6. Medical records documenting your injuries

No Motorcycle Accident Is Equal

The injuries that come from motorcycle accidents are often much worse than ones where someone is in a car. The reason for that is a motorcycle provides very little protection for riders during a collision. Therefore, you want to make sure you purchase sufficient insurance to cover your injuries. It is very important to purchase enough underinsured insurance coverage because North Carolina’s minimum limits won’t cover a motorcycle accident with severe bodily injuries. In North Carolina, all motor vehicles must have coverage of at least:

• $30,000 per person for bodily injury, up to $60,000 per accident
• $25,000 for property damage
• $30,000 per person for uninsured bodily injury, up to $60,000 per accident
• $25,000 for uninsured property damage

There are, however, many drivers on our roadways that don’t have insurance at all. Therefore, motorcyclists should purchase additional insurance on their policy in case they are hit by someone without insurance or with only minimum limits from whatever state they are from. Note: Some states have minimum limits lower than $30,000 per person.

Seek Medical Treatment For Your Injuries

Injuries from motorcycle accidents are all over the place. Due to the lack of protection for those on motorcycles, they can have severe injuries or any degree of injuries all over their body. It is very important following a motorcycle accident to be evaluated by a physician so that you can get treatment, as well as document all your injuries. Insurance companies don’t want to pay for claims so it is very important that a motorcyclist gets medical treatment quickly. This way, insurance companies don’t have an excuse to doubt your injuries.

If you or a family member have questions about injuries you’ve sustained in a motorcycle accident, contact Cardinal Law Partners’ personal injury lawyers today. Our staff is experienced in handling motorcycle accidents and will help you navigate your claim in North Carolina and the surrounding areas. Call (833) 444-4127 to contact us today!