In 2007, there were 7.1 million motorcycles registered for riding on the highways and byways of the United States. In 2008, 114 motorcycles on the road were involved in crashes that included property and other vehicles. The inattention of other drivers is a primary cause in such incidents. In fact, a motorcycle is more likely than any other motorized vehicle to become involved in a fixed object crash. In other words, the motorcycle does not come into contact with the vehicle responsible for causing the crash.
Common Causes Of Motorcycle Crashes
There are many different causes of motorcycle accidents. Some, however, are more common than others are. The list usually consists of:
- Lack of attention paid by another driver
- Traffic violations – cuts off the motorcycle
- Hits the motorcycle while passing it
- Fatigue
- Road conditions
- Weather
- Drugs and alcohol
What To Do After A Motorcycle Accident
The process an individual should follow, after a motorcycle accident occurs, mimics that demanded of any vehicle driver who wishes to file a claim with the insurance company. It is even more important in such an instance. If the evidence does not clearly indicate who is at fault – you can be sued for motorcycle accident.
- File a police report
- Talk to witnesses
- Compile information relevant to the accident
- Take photos
The important thing to do is to establish fault. If you do not do this, you can be sued for motorcycle accident even if no direct contact was involved.
What Is Needed To Establish Fault
Whether you were the driver of the motorcycle or the other vehicle involved in the motorcycle accident, you need to establish who is at fault. You need proof of liability. In other words, you need to establish the other driver caused the accident through negligence. It is essential to provide evidence irrefutably showing the other party was guilty of
- Reckless driving
- Aggressive Driving
- Driving Under The Influence (DUI) or Driving While Intoxicated (DWI)
- Driving without due regard for the safety of all individuals in vehicles or as pedestrians.
- Driving without consideration as to the security of property
If you do this, the other person will not be able to sue you. There is always a chance, however, the court will declare it was a situation of comparative fault with both parties equally or almost equally as guilty.
Hiring A Lawyer
If you have been involved in and are being sued for a motorcycle accident contact a skilled accident lawyer for clarification on what you can do.
