Charleston attracts millions of tourists to visit landmarks, patronize local businesses, and experience our beautiful vistas. This means more traffic on the road and more potential for accidents, especially for motorcyclists. Motorcycle accidents happen with similar frequency to other vehicle accidents but are more likely to end in serious physical harm, financial loss, or fatalities.
Accidents happen, but inattentive drivers should be held accountable. If you or someone you care about has been hurt in a motorcycle accident, speak with a Charleston personal injury lawyer at Shelly Leeke Law Firm to get the justice you deserve. Call today to schedule a free case consultation with a Charleston motorcycle accident lawyer.
Why You Should Work with a Charleston Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Being involved in an accident can be a traumatic experience, sometimes resulting in years of medical treatment and mounting expenses that insurance companies will fight to pay out. Details and documentation become very important in this process. Obtaining legal representation from a motorcycle accident attorney in Charleston can help:
- Evaluate whether your injuries qualify for legal action and calculate the potential settlement amount from medical expenses, loss of wages, property loss, punitive damages, and even wrongful death.
- Investigate the accident and determine the party or parties who may be liable.
- Compile documentation and supporting evidence to use as proof of the damages you have suffered.
- Ensure all necessary paperwork is promptly completed and filed to meet relevant deadlines for taking action.
- File a lawsuit if required to defend your interests in court if negotiations fail to secure your complete recovery.
Our firm has handled complex personal injury cases throughout South Carolina for over a decade, and we know what you are going through. Trust the Shelly Leeke Law Firm to be on your side, and stop stressing about the legalities of your claim.
The statute of limitations for filing a personal injury or property damage lawsuit in South Carolina resulting from an accident is three years, so it’s imperative to take steps to secure a motorcycle accident attorney in Charleston right away.
Common Injuries in a Motorcycle Accident in Charleston
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcyclists are 24 times more likely to have a fatal accident and four times as likely to sustain an injury compared to passenger car drivers. Motorcycle accident injuries vary, but injuries can be severe and frequently include:
- Internal Injuries such as damaged organs, internal bleeding
- Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
- Spinal cord injury
- Broken bones
- Road rash, abrasions, and scarring
Serious injuries can result in extensive medical bills and change a victim’s life forever. Access to high-quality medical care is essential and a part of what a lawyer will go after in your motorcycle accident injury case.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in South Carolina
Every motorcycle accident is unique and contains its own set of aspects and conditions, but some common causes occur more.
Distracted Drivers
Driver negligence is the leading cause of motorcycle accidents and occurs when a driver fails to yield, does not use proper signals, uses a mobile device, speeds, and does not check mirrors properly. Motorcycles take up significantly less space than cars and are often not seen because of this.
Inclement Weather
Motorcycles have less traction than other vehicles and can be particularly dangerous to ride during severe weather conditions, especially when other cars and trucks are on the road. Slippery or icy environments can lead to a loss of control, no matter how cautious all drivers are.
Road Hazards
Hazardous road conditions, such as potholes or dangerous intersections and roadways that lack speed or traffic signs, can make accidents more likely to occur. Charleston streets can be very narrow, and many do not have adequate street lights. A Charleston motorcycle attorney can assist you in determining whether a municipality was at fault for your accident.
Driving Under the Influence
Drivers who are under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol continue to cause accidents along Charleston streets and highways. According to the South Carolina Department of Public Safety, nearly half of all fatal accidents in South Carolina involve a driver under the influence, landing them in the slammer.
What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident
Immediately after an accident, the priority is to care for anyone needing medical attention. After that, knowing what not to do and what you need to do after a motorcycle accident is important. A motorcycle accident lawyer in Charleston can help you take steps to protect your rights and obtain compensation from the party at fault.
1. Contact the Local Authorities to File an Accident Report
Dial 911 to report the accident and request assistance if you are able. The Charleston police will help record details of the crash, provide documentation for insurance, and ensure that no one leaves the scene before the other driver’s information is obtained. You’ll want to write down their name, contact information, insurance company name and policy number, and vehicle description. Be sure not to admit fault or apologize for any part of the incident.
2. Seek Medical Treatment
Whether or not you feel injured immediately, it is important to get checked out by a medical professional who can document as well as treat any injuries you may have sustained. Some injuries can take time to notice, especially after the adrenaline and shock of an accident.
3. Gather All Records and Information Available
Keep notes on everything you can and compile documentation you have received, including the police report, photos from the accident scene, medical treatment and insurance documents, and vehicle repair estimates. Documentation is vital if you decide to pursue a personal injury claim.
Schedule a Free Consultation with a Charleston Motorcycle Accident Attorney
If you or a loved one has been in a motorcycle accident in Charleston, South Carolina, the personal injury attorneys at the Shelly Leeke Law Firm can help. With over a decade of experience, our Charleston motorcycle accident lawyers are dedicated to building your case and securing the compensation you deserve. Contact us to schedule your free case consultation, and rest assured you will not owe us anything until we win.
