Injured on a Motorcycle? Who Was Responsible?
If you suffered an injury while driving a motorcycle, stereotypes might make you believe you are responsible for the accident. However, another reckless driver can be at fault, but the motorcycle driver tends to suffer the most injuries.
Motorcycle accidents can be deadly or life alternating. In 2020, motorcyclists accounted for 14 percent of all traffic fatalities, according to Injury Facts. So understanding who is at fault can make the difference between receiving no money to pay for your medical bills and lost wages and no money at all.
Who Is At Fault In A Motorcycle Accident?
In North Carolina, motorcycle injury liability can be tricky. Regardless of who caused the accident, North Carolina enforces contributory negligence.
For example, this means that even if one driver side-swiped the motorcyclist, if the motorcyclist was speeding, then the motorcyclist would not be entitled to any damages because they contributed to the accident happening. So even if you are only 1 percent at fault for the accident, you won’t be entitled to any monetary damages or insurance payments.
Always practicing safe motorcycle driving is the best way to prevent an accident and ensure if you are injured, you’ll receive damages.
How do Typical Motorcycle Accidents Happen?
Understanding how most motorcycle accidents happen can help you avoid dangerous situations.
One of the most unsafe practices by motorcycle drivers is lane splitting or riding your motorcycle between two lanes of traffic on the line.
Next is left-turn accidents; almost half of all motorcycle and car accidents happen at intersections. Motorcycle drivers may proceed straight through the intersection to pass a car waiting to make a left, and then the car turns without seeing the driver.
Another dangerous situation for a motorcyclist is when a car changes lanes and doesn’t see the motorcycle in its mirrors.
Regardless of the type of vehicle you’re driving, speeding, driving under the influence, sudden stopping, and reckless driving poses a threat, particularly to motorcyclists because their body is exposed.
What Should I Do If I’m Confused About Motorcycle Injury Liability?
If you’re unsure who is at fault in a motorcycle accident you were a part of, contact Hyland & Padilla right away.
We offer complimentary consultations to help you understand motorcycle injury liability.
Motorcycle accidents can be life-altering, and we want you to get the money you deserve to recover.
