What Happens in Motorcycle Accidents?
Motorcycle crashes accounted for 16.7 percent of all fatal motor vehicle accidents in Illinois in 2012, according to an Illinois Department of Transportation report. Understanding the root cause of fatal and personal injury accidents involving motorcycles can help you best protect yourself on the road and take the rights steps if you happen to get into an accident.
At-Fault Parties in Motorcycle Wrecks
Knowing who is at fault in a motorcycle wreck is of great importance, as it determines which insurance company or companies pay for medical bills and property damage. In a majority of these accidents, the at-fault party is the driver of the car or other vehicle. For instance, while drivers are often aware of motorcycles, they tend to fail to properly share the road. Additionally, drivers have increased distractions due to smartphones and other mobile devices. When riders are at fault for auto accidents, it is commonly due to improper training or inexperience. These riders take risks that experienced motorcyclists avoid.
As a rider, you can use this knowledge to help you stay safe while on the road. You can avoid tailgating, stay out of blind spots and always wear a helmet. If you are an inexperienced rider, enroll in a safety course and be sure to follow safe driving protocols while on the road.
Connect with The Rooth Law Firm at (847) 869-9100 or through our online contact form to schedule a free consultation about your case.
Steps to Take After Being Involved in an Accident
If you have suffered injuries or property damage as a result of a motorcycle accident, there are several things you should do to best take care of yourself and preserve your claim:
- Get medical care you need. The first thing you should always do is seek medical attention after an accident. This is true even if you aren’t sure that something is wrong. The sooner you can begin to document your physical condition, the better prepared you will be to address questions from the insurance companies.
- Do not give statements to the insurance companies. Both your insurance company and the other driver’s insurance company will want to speak with you as soon as possible after the accident. It is of the utmost importance that you do not make any statements until after you have talked to a personal injury lawyer, because the insurance companies will work to get answers out of you that they can hopefully use to limit or deny any damages claims.
- Make sure you know who will pay for your medical bills. The at-fault insurance company will not pay until they agree to a final settlement. This means your own auto insurance and/or medical insurance will need to cover your bills until that point.
- Get a copy of the police report. This report list any witnesses who saw your accident occur. These witnesses can provide important information that may help your claim later on.
Discuss Your Motorcycle Accident in a Free Consultation
At The Rooth Law Firm in Chicago, we provide assertive, dedicated representation to individuals who have suffered injuries or lost loved ones as a result of motorcycle accidents. We have more than 30 years of experience seeking fair compensation for our clients. Additionally, attorney Robert J. Rooth is a rider himself, and he puts his first-hand knowledge and experience of riding to use in reviewing and pursuing all motorcycle accident claims.
Contact us at (847) 869-9100 to make arrangements to discuss your case with our attorney today.