You’re riding along I-485 on your motorcycle, enjoying the wind in your face and the sun on your skin. Then, out of nowhere, a car cuts you off, sending you flying into traffic. You hit the pavement hard, sustaining serious injuries.
After a motorcycle accident, knowing what steps to take to protect yourself is important. Not having insurance can lead to serious legal trouble, so you must take the time to learn about your options. At The Law Offices of Jason E. Taylor, our Charlotte motorcycle accident lawyers have years of experience helping accident victims get the compensation they deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation.
Motorcycle Insurance is Required Charlotte, NC
Like car insurance, North Carolina also requires motorcycle operators to carry insurance. This requirement is in place to protect both riders and other motorists on the road. Motorcycle operators are required to carry:
- Bodily injury (one person) – $30,000
- Bodily injury (two or more people) – $60,000
- Property damage – $25,000
We always recommend that riders purchase insurance that exceeds the state minimums to protect yourself and others.
The Dangers of Riding Without Insurance in Charlotte, NC
Riding without insurance is extremely dangerous. If you are involved in an accident, you may be held personally liable for any damages that the other party incurs. This means that you could be sued and have to pay for the other party’s medical expenses, pain and suffering, and lost wages. You may also be responsible for your own legal fees.
North Carolina classifies driving without insurance as a misdemeanor which means riding without insurance also puts you at risk of being fined or having your license suspended.
Don’t take the risk of riding without insurance. Make sure you are properly insured before you get on the road.
What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident if You Don’t Have Insurance
If you are involved in a motorcycle accident and don’t have insurance, the first thing you should do is seek medical treatment. Even if you don’t think that you are injured, it is important to get checked out by a doctor. Some injuries, such as concussions, may not be immediately apparent. After seeing a doctor, the next step is contacting a personal injury lawyer.
An experienced personal injury lawyer will be able to help you navigate the legal process, handle communication with the insurance company, and ensure that you get the compensation that you deserve. If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact The Law Offices of Jason E. Taylor today for a free consultation. We will review your case and help you understand your legal options.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Charlotte, NC
Many different factors can contribute to a motorcycle accident. In some cases, the accident may be caused by another driver’s negligence. For example, if a driver fails to yield the right of way or cuts off a motorcycle while changing lanes, they may be held responsible for any resulting accident.
In other cases, the accident may be caused by road conditions or mechanical issues with the motorcycle. Regardless of the cause, it is important to contact an experienced personal injury lawyer who can help you file an insurance claim and get compensation for your injuries.
Common Injuries After a Motorcycle Accident
The injuries a motorcycle rider sustains in an accident will depend on the accident’s severity and whether or not they were wearing a helmet. Some common injuries after a motorcycle accident include:
- Road rash
- Broken bones
- Concussions
- Spinal cord injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries
Motorcycle accidents often result in serious injuries leading to costly medical bills, and injury victims should not have to suffer for an accident that they did not cause. If you were injured in a motorcycle accident, contact an experienced personal injury lawyer who can help you get the compensation you deserve.
Recovering Damages After a North Carolina Motorcycle Accident
After a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to receive compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering. You may need to file a personal injury claim to get this compensation. The other driver’s insurance company will likely send an insurance adjuster to investigate the accident.
The insurance adjuster will try to minimize the amount of money the insurance company has to pay. This is why it is important to have an experienced personal injury lawyer on your side. A lawyer will fight for your rights and ensure you get the full compensation you are entitled to. At The Law Offices of Jason E. Taylor, we will work tirelessly to get you the best possible outcome in your case.
Contributory Negligence in North Carolina Motorcycle Accidents
In some cases, the motorcycle accident victim may be found to be partially at fault for the accident and barred from recovery. In North Carolina, this is known as contributory negligence. We are one of only a few states in the entire country that still has this law. This is why it is so important to have an experienced lawyer on your side.
At The Law Offices of Jason E. Taylor, we will investigate the accident and gather evidence to prove that you were not at fault. We will do everything to help you get the compensation you deserve.
Can I Be Sued for a Motorcycle Accident?
Yes, if you are found at fault for a motorcycle accident, the other party may sue you to recover damages. Your personal assets, such as a car, property, boat, etc., can be used to pay for a crash victim’s personal injuries. That is why it is so essential to make sure that you have at least the minimum motorcycle insurance if you are riding on the roads of Charlotte, North Carolina.
Get Help From an Experienced Personal Injury Attorney in Charlotte, North Carolina
Whether you were in a car accident or motorcycle accident, it is important to get help from an experienced attorney. The Charlotte attorneys at The Law Offices of Jason E. Taylor have years of experience handling personal injury claims, including motorcycle accidents.
We value the attorney-client relationship and will work tirelessly to protect your rights, and we will do everything we can to ensure you get the compensation you deserve. Contact us today to schedule a free case review.
