Motorcycle Wrecks

Motorcycle riders are among the most vulnerable people on the road. Without the structural protection of a car or truck, motorcyclists who are involved in collisions frequently suffer serious, life-altering injuries. Making matters worse, motorcycle wreck victims often face an uphill battle with insurance companies and juries who hold biased assumptions about riders.

At Maples, Connick & Brendel, we fight for motorcycle wreck victims and work to overcome the unfair prejudices that riders face.

The Dangers Motorcyclists Face

The most common cause of motorcycle wrecks is other drivers failing to see the motorcycle. Drivers making left turns across oncoming traffic, changing lanes without checking blind spots, pulling out from side streets, opening car doors into traffic lanes, and following too closely all create life-threatening situations for riders.

Despite advances in safety gear and rider training, the physics of a motorcycle collision remain unforgiving. Riders are exposed to direct impact with vehicles, pavement, and roadway obstacles — impacts that occupants of enclosed vehicles are largely protected from.

Injuries in Motorcycle Wrecks

The injuries we see in motorcycle wreck cases are frequently severe. Road rash ranging from minor abrasions to deep tissue damage requiring skin grafts. Broken bones, particularly in the legs, arms, wrists, and collarbones. Traumatic brain injuries, even with helmet use. Spinal cord injuries and paralysis. Internal organ damage. Amputations resulting from crush injuries. Permanent scarring and disfigurement.

These injuries often require multiple surgeries, extended rehabilitation, and may result in permanent disability that affects the rider’s ability to work and enjoy life.

Overcoming Anti-Rider Bias

One of the biggest challenges in motorcycle wreck cases is the perception that riders are inherently reckless or that they assumed the risk by choosing to ride. Insurance companies exploit this bias to reduce claims, and it can influence jury decisions at trial.

We counter this bias with thorough preparation. We document the rider’s training and experience, safety gear usage, riding history, and compliance with traffic laws. We present clear evidence establishing that the other driver — not the rider — was at fault. And we educate adjusters and jurors about the realities of motorcycle riding and the responsibilities that all motorists share on the road.

Motorcycle Laws Across the Southeastern United States

Helmet requirements and fault rules vary by state across the Southeastern United States. Some states follow comparative fault rules, others apply contributory negligence, and others use modified comparative fault. These distinctions can have a major impact on a motorcycle wreck claim, which is why strong evidence of the other driver’s fault is critical regardless of where the wreck occurred.

Understanding these distinctions is essential to building a strong claim. Our attorneys know how to navigate the legal landscape in each state where we practice.

If you have been injured in a motorcycle wreck, do not let bias cost you the compensation you deserve. Contact us for a free case review.