Motorcycles have become increasingly popular in South Carolina and across the nation in the past few decades. Especially in mild weather, these vehicles are seen more and more on the roads and highways as a form of transportation, recreation, and sport. Unfortunately, with this increase in registered motorcycles has come a rise in accidents.
At Christmas Injury Lawyers we have been called on to help motorcycle victims and their families in the wake of these often-deadly accidents. With more than 40 years of combined legal experience, our experienced injury lawyers know what it takes to obtain fair and just compensation for damages in cases of negligence-based accidents. Let our Charleston motorcycle accident lawyers at Christmas Injury Lawyers help you get fair compensation for your case.
Motorcycle Accident Statistics
The South Carolina Department of Public Safety (SCDPS) reported that 1,819 motorcycle crashes occurred in 2010. Ten percent of the total traffic fatalities that year consisted of motorcycle fatalities, although motorcycle accidents accounted for only 1.7 percent of total traffic crashes. That statistic reflects the dangers of riding motorcycles: the body of a rider or passenger does not have the same protection as occupants of cars and trucks. When a motorcyclist or passenger is involved in a crash, the impact of another vehicle, the road, or another object can be deadly. Serious injuries can follow, such as broken bones, internal bleeding, loss of limbs, brain injuries, and spinal damage. SCDPS also reported that traumatic brain injuries occurred in 74 percent of injured motorcyclists in 2008 who were hospitalized and later died.
The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety reports that while motorcycle deaths have decreased since 2008, they are still double what they were in 1997. It also reports that those who ride motorcycles without a helmet increase their risk for a traumatic brain injury by three times compared to helmeted riders.
Risks Of Motorcycle Accidents
As these statistics attest, operating a motorcycle carries high risks. Often, motorcycles are not seen by other motorists, are regarded as an irritation, or are not given the respect they deserve on the road. The majority of motorcycle accidents involve another vehicle. Where such an accident is caused by the negligence of the other party, that party can be held accountable for the damages you suffer. Your medical expenses, lost wages or income, property damage to your bike, pain and suffering may all be sought in a valid injury claim against the other driver.
Our Charleston motorcycle accident lawyers know how to protect your rights and aggressively pursue the compensation to which you are entitled in Charleston. We know how to build and substantiate your claim, how to engage in tough negotiations with insurance companies, or take your case to civil court. We will make every effort to ensure that your case is handled in the most professional manner to pursue the best possible result.
Contacting A Motorcycle Injury Lawyer
To learn more about the legal factors of your case and how Christmas Injury Lawyers can help you, contact our firm for a free case consultation. Our phone lines are answered 24/7. Let our Charleston motorcycle accident attorneys use our considerable experience to protect you and your family.
