Why Motorcycle Accidents Are Different

All motor vehicle accidents are different depending on the vehicle and situation, and nowhere is this more true than when it comes to accidents involving motorcycles.

The nuances of motorcycle accidents often have a direct impact on the kind of case that may evolve, how it is litigated, and the verdict and results ultimately obtained. If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, be familiar with these differences so you can be prepared to find an attorney that is a good fit for your case.

Four Reasons Motorcycle Accidents Are Different

Accidents involving motorcycles differ from those involving cars, trucks, or other automobiles.

Public Perception

Part of the reason for these differences stem from public perceptions (and often misconceptions) about motorcycles and the people who ride them. Because of their portrayal in pop culture, motorcycles are often associated with speed and, at times, even reckless driving. Additionally, in an effort to justify their own actions, defendants will often claim that they did not see a motorcycle. Should a case go to litigation, preconceived notions of motorcycles and the ready excuses their smaller size may elicit can create significant jury selection implications.

Injuries

Motorcycle accidents tend to cause injuries that are more likely to be of the life-altering variety. The complexity of such cases is further exacerbated by whether or not the cyclist was or was not wearing appropriate headgear. More subtle injuries can often go undetected.

Insurance

Because motorcycle insurance is harder to obtain, the complexities of a specific plan can be more difficult to decipher and have serious consequences for how financial damages are calculated or awarded.

Evidence

The data left behind in motorcycle accidents tends to be quite subtle because there are usually fewer points of impact than in the typical automobile collision and hence less physical evidence.

What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident

So what are you supposed to do? Most importantly, you should work with an attorney who truly understands motorcycles and motorcycle accidents. It also means they should have a grasp as to how potential jurors will view both the individual as well as the activity of motorcycle driving/riding.

In addition, the attorney should be readily familiar with the types of injuries that can occur as a result of a motorcycle accident. They should be observant for signs of changes in memory function, balance, coordination, and fine motor skills. The presence of a concussion is always a possibility, and it is important that ligament injuries do not get overlooked. An evaluation by the right orthopedic specialist is absolutely essential.

Ultimately, you may be best served by the attorney who not only knows the law but who can also advocate enthusiastically on your behalf.

Contact a Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today

If you or a loved one have been injured as a result of a motorcycle accident, contact the Indianapolis Motorcycle Accident Attorneys of Wilson Kehoe Winingham. The lawyers at WKW can help you get the compensation you deserve. Call 317.920.6400 or fill out an online contact form for a free, no-obligation case evaluation.

Share This Article