As the hot summer months approach, the use of motorcycles in South Carolina will increase. Motorcycles are a common method of transportation both for getting to work as well as for recreation. Unfortunately, motorcycle accidents are on the rise, with more than 119 deaths in 2015 and many more injuries. The occurrence of many of these accidents could have been avoided if the driver of the other vehicle had been more attentive. Collisions between motorcycles and cars or trucks can have very serious consequences.
Accident Injuries
Motorcyclists are often severely injured in a crash with another vehicle. Broken bones, scrapes and cuts are common, but of all the medical problems caused by motorcycle accidents, head injuries can be the most severe. While motorcyclists aged 21 and over in South Carolina are not required by law to wear a helmet, it is strongly recommended that one be worn. Traumatic brain injuries occur when the head is jolted such as in a hard hit with the pavement. Immediate treatment is essential to survivability and recovery from this type of injury.
Prevention of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycles are often difficult for other drivers to see because they invisible in mirrors, and are instead in drivers’ blind spots. Drivers must be vigilant in watching for motorcycles whenever they drive. Changing lanes into a motorcycle is one of the most common causes of accidents. Prevention includes simply turning your head to look in addition to checking your mirrors before you move into another lane. Motorcyclists should take care to follow the rules of the road and always maintain a safe distance between you and other vehicles. Do not travel between lanes or on the shoulder of the highway.
After a Motorcycle Accident
Those who are seriously hurt as the result of a motorcycle accident that was not their fault may be entitled to compensation for damages. Medical care costs and rehabilitation expenses can be high and should be paid by the responsible party. Immediately following an accident get checked out by a doctor. Make sure that the police respond to take a report and statements. Witnesses may be vital to understanding and proving how the accident occurred.
Get Legal Help
If you were seriously hurt in a motorcycle accident talking to an attorney is probably not something you are thinking about. However, if the accident was not your fault you need to protect your rights so you can get compensation for your medical costs. Medical treatment can be very expensive and you may require ongoing care. Also, you may be unable to work so you should get money to cover living expenses while you recover. If you are permanently injured you will need lengthy medical and rehabilitation costs.
The sooner you speak with an attorney the better, because there are limits to the time you can file a claim. Do not accept payment from the insurance company until you have first reviewed the offer with your lawyer. Many times the initial offer is far less than is needed to cover your ongoing needs. You and your family will have many questions concerning how to file a lawsuit. Contact the compassionate Columbia SC legal team at Connell Law Firm to speak with someone about your case.