Motorcycle Accidents

What are common causes of motorcycle accidents?

Motorcycle accidents in West Virginia happen for many reasons. Drivers often claim they did not see the motorcycle, which may have been sideswiped while traveling in another lane on the highway. Not seeing a vehicle that is legally using the road is no excuse. Drivers have a responsibility to share the road and avoid accidents with motorcyclists. We encourage drivers to look out for motorcycles at all times, especially at intersections.

“Failing to see” a motorcycle may also be an excuse a distracted driver or driver who is impaired by drugs or alcohol might make. Some of the most common causes we regularly encounter at our law firm include:

• Distracted drivers – Many drivers think they can multitask and operate a vehicle. Studies show that multitasking creates a distraction and increases the chance of causing an accident. A distracted driver poses a threat to everyone sharing the road, including motorcyclists. Some of the most common reasons why drivers aren’t paying attention include:
  • Texting while driving
  • Talking on a cellphone
  • Operating a GPS device
  • Eating while driving
• Reckless drivers – Weaving between vehicles, changing lanes without warning and tailgating – these are some of the most common examples of reckless driving that often result in serious motorcycle accidents.
• Speeding drivers – When drivers exceed the speed limit, they often don’t have the time or space to stop safely. As a result, speeding trucks and cars sometimes crash into motorcyclists.

Important topics related to motorcycle accidents

• Why do I need a lawyer for my motorcycle accident?
• Cars turning in front of motorcycles in intersections
• Cars changing lanes and striking motorcyclists
• Motorcycle rider gets hit from behind
• Common injuries in motorcycle accidents
• How insurance companies view motorcyclists
• Why motorcycle accidents are so severe

Why do I need a lawyer for my motorcycle accident?

Cars turning in front of motorcycles in intersections

Speeding by the driver of the car may be a factor in an intersection motorcycle accident, but often these accidents occur at speeds of 30 mph our less. The motorcycle rider, however, may still sustain severe or fatal injuries due to little crash protection. A rider may apply the brakes as an evasive maneuver, which may result the rider being thrown over the top of the motorcycle or forcing him or her to lie down and slide across the pavement.

Cars changing lanes and striking motorcyclists

A motorcycle may be harder to see, but that’s no excuse. The motorcycle rider has a right to use the road. If the driver of the car swerves into the motorcycle’s lane, the rider may be unable to avoid getting struck.

Don’t settle for their excuses if you were cut off by a negligent driver. Take action. Let our experienced motorcycle accident attorneys in West Virginia help you seek justice.

Motorcycle rider gets hit from behind

The driver from behind is almost always at fault in a rear-end motorcycle accident in West Virginia. Discuss your rights with an experienced attorney.

Common injuries in motorcycle accidents

Motorcyclists often sustain a wide range of serious injuries in accidents. Some of the most common injuries motorcyclists sustain include:

• Head injuries
• Spine injuries
• Back injuries
• Neck injuries
• Broken bones
• Road rash
• Foot injuries
• Arm injuries

How insurance companies view motorcyclists

We know the truth. We know how important it is to mount a rock solid case to prove the driver was negligent. We take all the steps necessary to support an injury or wrongful death claim. To get the results our clients need, we carefully compile evidence and interview witnesses and first responders. In many cases, we work with medical experts and accident reconstructionists. We’re determined to show the insurance company that the motorcyclist did not cause the accident and hold the other driver accountable. While most cases settle, Klie Law Offices is prepared to file a lawsuit and take the case before a just and jury if necessary.

Why motorcycle accidents are so severe

According to the Insurance Information Institute, motorcyclists are about 26 times more likely than an occupant of a car to die in a crash. And motorcyclists are five times more likely to be injured.

If you or a loved one has sustained a serious injury in a motorcycle accident, you might be unable to work for many weeks or months – or even longer. You may face permanent disabilities. In cases of wrongful death, families often worry about the long-term financial impact of the loss. When so much is at stake, it’s important to have an experienced West Virginia motorcycle accident attorney on your side, vigorously fighting for your rights.