Coastal Virginia’s scenic roadways often draw motorcyclists from across the country. Tragically, motorcyclists are more vulnerable to serious injury or death when they drive. Motorcycle operators are significantly more likely to die in a crash compared to passenger car crashes. If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, you need an attorney that will fight for you.
At Coletrane & Messersmith, our lawyers represent individuals who have been seriously hurt or killed in motorcycle accidents. We proudly serve the communities of Newport News, Hampton, and Hampton Roads. If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, call our office at (757) 223-4455 for a free consultation.
Virginia Motorcycle Accident Statistics
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcycle operators are nearly 29x more likely to die in a crash when compared to occupants of a passenger vehicle. Motorcyclists are less protected by their vehicles and more susceptible to serious if not fatal injuries.
The most recent Virginia traffic crash data reveals:
- There were 1,960 motorcycle crashes in a single year.
- Motorcycle accidents accounted for 1.5% of all traffic crashes in the Commonwealth.
- Of the 1,960 motorcycle crashes, 83 were fatal and 1,529 involved injuries.
- Motorcycle drivers are substantially more likely to be injured compared with passengers.
- 668 motorcycle riders were seriously injured, representing 9.3% of all traffic serious injuries.
- Nearly 40% of all motorcycle accidents occurred due to no improper action by the motorcycle driver.
- Only 6.2% of motorcycle crashes involved motorcycle operators that had been drinking.
If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, you need representation you can trust. Our motorcycle accident lawyers can help you understand your rights and pursue a claim for damages based on your injuries.
Motorcycle Accident Injuries
While collisions involving motorcycles can be minor, involving only property damage, the vast majority result in serious injury. Research from NHTSA shows that in the United States, more than 80% of all motorcycle crashes result in injury or death to the motorcycle operator. Data from the Virginia Highway Safety Office reflects similar percentages for Virginia motorcycle crashes.
Motorcycle accident injuries may include:
- Spinal cord trauma
- Head and neck injuries
- Paralysis
- Broken bones
- Facial fractures
- Road rash
- Severe burns and lacerations
It may be difficult to determine the extent of your injuries in the immediate aftermath of your accident. You should always seek emergency medical treatment and continue care until advised to stop by a healthcare professional.
What Causes Motorcycle Accidents?
Many motorcycle accidents are preventable, caused by another’s driver’s negligence or wrongdoing. For example, operators of passenger vehicles may underestimate the speed of a motorcycle or fail to check their blind spot before changing lanes resulting in a catastrophic collision.
Common causes of motorcycle accidents:
- Driver inattention
- Distracted driving
- Failure to yield
- Improper lane change
- Following too closely
- Driving under the influence (DUI)
- Defective motorcycle parts
- Dangerous roads
It is critical to consult with a motorcycle accident lawyer immediately after your accident. An insurance company may try to force you into a settlement that is far less than what your case is worth. Do not sign anything or accept payment until you speak with an attorney.
What Will I Receive Compensation After a Motorcycle Accident?
Depending on the circumstances of your motorcycle accident and your injuries, you might be entitled to compensation. An attorney can conduct an independent investigation to determine if you have a valid claim for damages against a negligent party.
Individuals injured in motorcycle accidents may be entitled to compensation for:
- Medical bills
- Lost wages
- Loss of future earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Mental anguish
- Disfigurement
- Punitive damages (in rare cases)
Our motorcycle accident lawyers can walk you through the legal process and file a lawsuit based on personal injury. Under Virginia law, you only have two (2) years from the date of the accident to file a claim, or you may lose your right to compensation. Do not wait until it is too late.
Should I Hire a Lawyer?
Generally, it is in your best interest to consult with an attorney as soon as possible after a motorcycle accident. If another party was at fault for your injuries, they (usually through their insurance company) might try to contact you. Insurance adjusters use numerous tactics to downplay a person’s injuries or even put them at fault for the accident.
Without the help of an attorney, you may end up settling for less than your case is worth. Or worse, you may get nothing at all. If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident and have suffered a severe injury, you need legal representation to get the compensation you deserve.
Injured in a Motorcycle Accident? Contact Our Office.
Have you or a loved one been injured in a motorcycle accident? Contact our Hampton Roads motorcycle accident lawyers for a free, no-obligation consultation. We will come to you at no additional cost.
Cases are accepted on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no fees unless we win. When you have suffered harm or have lost a loved one, you need superior legal representation. Call our award-winning legal team today at (757) 223-4455.
