What are Some Laws Particular to Motorcycles in Greenville, North Carolina?
The same rules govern motorcycle accidents as other motor vehicle accidents. However, some unique issues can come up in a motorcycle accident case.
Motorcycle License Requirements
If you are a motorcycle rider in North Carolina, you are required to have a motorcycle endorsement on your regular, commercial, or full provisional license before riding.
Protective Gear
All motorcyclists in North Carolina are required to wear a helmet with the chin strap safely secured and comply with testing and labeling requirements in Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard.
Motorcycles also must have:
- At least one headlight
- Rear lights that are visible from 500 feet
- A working brake operated by hand or foot
- Turn signals
- Functioning horn
- Rearview mirror
- An exhaust system that complies with emissions control standards
Lane Splitting and Sharing
Motorcycles are entitled to full use of a traffic lane. However, there should not be more than two motorcycles riding side by side in a single lane.
What are Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Greenville, NC?
Unfortunately, motorcycles are very common. According to the North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles, 43 motorcycle crashes occurred in Pitt County in 2019.
There are various reasons a motorcycle accident may happen, and most motorcycle accidents result from a negligent driver. Some other common causes of motorcycle accidents include:
- Driver error
- Defective equipment
- Road hazards
- Lack of experience
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Drunk driving
- Inattention or distraction by other drivers
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, don’t hesitate to contact our office today to schedule a free consultation with one of our attorneys.
What are some Common Motorcycle Crash Injuries?
Motorcycle accidents can result in various injuries, some of which are very serious. Some common motorcycle crash injuries include:
- Head trauma
- Neck and spine injuries
- Broken bones
- Lacerations/road rash
- Burns
- Traumatic brain injury
- Paralysis
- Death
If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, you need an experienced lawyer on your side, and our team is here to help. We have years of experience representing clients in motorcycle accident cases in North Carolina.
Who is Liable for Motorcycle Accidents in Greenville, NC?
Liability in a motorcycle accident case will depend on the facts of the case. In some cases, the other driver may be liable for your injuries. In other cases, a defective product may be to blame. For example, if you were involved in a motorcycle accident caused by a defective tire, you may be able to bring a claim against the tire manufacturer.
In some cases, multiple parties may be liable for your injuries. For example, if a drunk driver hits you, the driver may be responsible for your damages, as well as the bar or restaurant that served them alcohol.
Contributory Negligence in Greenville, NC
North Carolina is a contributory negligence state. This means that if you are even partially at fault for your injuries, you may be barred from recovery. For example, if you were involved in a motorcycle wreck and the other driver was 50% at fault, and you were found to be 50% at fault, you would be barred from recovery.
It is important to speak with an experienced attorney if you have been involved in a motorcycle accident, as contributory negligence can be a tricky legal doctrine.
Why Should I Hire a Greenville Motorcycle Accident Attorney?
If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident, it is important to speak with an experienced attorney who can help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights.
An experienced attorney will be able to:
- Investigate your case
- Gather evidence
- Interview witnesses
- Handle all paperwork and filings
- Represent you in court
- Negotiate with the insurance company
- Fight for your rights
If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident, please contact our office today to schedule a free consultation with one of our attorneys. We would be happy to answer any questions and help you get started on your case.
What Damages Our Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Will Fight For?
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries. This compensation can include:
- Economic Damages: These are the quantifiable financial losses you incurred because of your accident. This can include medical bills, lost wages, loss of future earnings, and property damage.
- Non-Economic Damages: These are the intangible losses you incurred because of your accident. This can include pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of consortium, and wrongful death benefits.
- Wrongful Death Damages: If someone died due to their injuries in a motorcycle accident, the family may be entitled to wrongful death damages. This can include medical bills, funeral expenses, pain and suffering, and loss of consortium.
The Statute of Limitations in Greenville, NC
The statute of limitations is the amount of time you have to file a lawsuit. In North Carolina, the statute of limitations for personal injury cases is three years. Therefore, it is important to speak with an experienced attorney as soon as possible after your accident to ensure that you do not miss the deadline.
Contact our Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Greenville, NC
Motorcycle accidents can happen at any time, and if you have been injured in one due to someone else’s negligence or recklessness, you deserve maximum compensation for your injuries.
Our Greenville motorcycle accident lawyers are well versed in North and South Carolina law. We take on insurance companies and negotiate with them to ensure that you receive fair treatment. We are also not afraid to go to trial when it’s in our client’s best interest.
Contact us today for your free case review and learn more about what we can do to help you. We will answer your questions and explain all of your legal options.
