The exact percentage of motorcycle accidents caused by motorcyclists varies on a yearly basis. Numerous factors influence the distribution of fault, though typically other motorists are more likely to cause these collisions.
You can learn more about what percentage of motorcycle accidents are the riders’ fault from a North Charleston motorcycle accident lawyer from our team. You can trust us to provide the answers you need and to represent you after a crash.
How Often Are Motorcycle Accidents the Riders’ Fault?
According to a major study on motorcycle accident cause factors and identification of countermeasures (the Hurt Report), motorcycle accidents are rarely the rider’s fault. In fact, the study found that other motorists violated a motorcyclist’s right of way in 66% of the accidents studied.
This study established that other motorists are at fault for the majority of multi–vehicle motorcycle crashes, not riders. However, fault can vary on a case-by-case basis. It’s more useful for attorneys to focus on the specific causes of each individual crash, instead of making decisions about cases based on statistics.
An attorney from Team Shelly Leeke can provide you with the personalized legal assistance you need after a crash. You do not have to try to go through the legal process alone.
How Do Riders Cause Motorcycle Accidents?
A rider losing control of their motorcycle represents one of the primary causes of motorcycle crashes. Motorcyclists may lose control of their vehicles for many reasons. Some lose control while:
- Speeding
- Weaving in and out of traffic
- Taking a turn too fast
In other cases, loss of control may come from poor weather or dangerous road conditions. An attorney from Shelly Leeke Law Firm can review the causes of a crash to determine if a motorcyclist caused the collision.
How Do Motorists Cause Motorcycle Accidents?
Motorists have historically caused over two–thirds of multi–vehicle motorcycle crashes by violating a biker’s right of way. Drivers can cut off motorcyclists as they try to make turns or ignore them at intersections, causing catastrophic collisions.
In many cases, motorists simply ignore motorcycles, failing to pay enough attention to other vehicles on the road. Drivers can also open their doors into the path of motorcyclists, cut them off in traffic, or engage in other dangerous driving behaviors.
Lawyers need to investigate to determine the causes of each crash that they handle. Team Shelly Leeke may focus on:
- Visiting the scene of the crash
- Taking statements from anyone who saw the collision
- Getting a copy of the police accident report
Once an attorney understands who caused a motorcycle crash, they can proceed with the legal process.
Why Does It Matter Who Caused a Motorcycle Accident?
Fault matters in motorcycle crashes because it determines who has to cover the losses caused by a collision. The liable party typically has to pay all accident victims for their economic and non-economic damages.
Depending on the circumstances surrounding a crash, the liable party may have to pay for:
Medical Expenses
Motorcycle crashes often result in catastrophic injuries, like paralysis, broken bones, and even amputations. The party responsible for the accident may have to cover all expenses associated with the treatment of these injuries, including the costs of surgeries and hospital stays.
Lost Wages
The at-fault party may also have to cover any wages an injury victim lost while off work and healing. Sometimes, filing an accident claim allows victims to obtain additional compensation for their reduced earning potential.
Pain and Suffering
The responsible party may also have to cover the non-economic damages associated with a collision. These losses can include things like an accident victim’s pain, emotional distress, and mental suffering.
Property Repairs
Finally, the liable party may have to pay to repair any property damaged in a motorcycle crash. Sometimes, the injured party can get money to replace property if it sustains enough damage. Team Shelly Leeke can track all of the losses associated with this kind of crash.
More Than One Party Can Cause a Motorcycle Crash
South Carolina’s laws on comparative negligence mean that more than one person can hold liability for a collision. These laws also allow you to seek compensation for your losses even if you partially contribute to a crash.
However, your compensation will decrease based on your percentage of fault, so it’s important that you allow a lawyer to investigate and gather evidence that establishes another person’s liability.
Why Contact Us After a Motorcycle Crash?
Our team at Shelly Leeke Law Firm understands what percentage of motorcycle accidents are the rider’s fault. We take these claims seriously and can immediately step in to help with your legal needs after a crash.
We have over a decade of legal experience and the resources to assist with any legal challenges you face after a collision. We’ll maintain open communication throughout the legal process and support you as we work tirelessly to bring you fair compensation.
Call Shelly Now! We’re here and ready to help with your personal injury claim.
