Motorcycle accidents can be devastating to a family, both emotionally and financially. Because of the nature of these accidents and the fact that protection from injury is minimal (besides a helmet, pads, jacket), the likelihood of traumatic injury is extremely high. When involved in a motorcycle accident, upon contacting your inssurance, you may be offered an enticing settlement. However, more often than none, the settlement you are offered is a much smaller amount than what you could be getting for property, medical, and emotional damages. Even if you were partly responsible for the accident, you may still be entitled to compensation because of the other parties involved. Be sure to contact Portland Personal Injury Attornyes when the massive misfortune or negligance of another person results in a motorcycle accident.
Quick Statistics: Motorcycle Accidents
- In 2007, motorcyclists were 37 times more likely than other motor vehicle operators to be involved in an accident and lose their lives because of it. The fatality rate of motorcyclists is much higher than that of other motor vehicle drivers.
- Under Oregon law, anyone on or operating a motorcycle must wear a helmet.
- According the the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration estimates that approximately 1,829 motorcyclists lives could have been saved if the individual had been wearing a helmet.
- It is reccommended by many that motorcyclists, due inpart to the vast differences between motorcycles and traditional cars, partake in an extended safety course.
A Brief Example
One a beautiful, sunny day in the middle of July, you decide to take a motorcycle roadtrip with your brother to Los Angeles. After setting aside the necessary provisions needed for the trip, you set off in the early hours of the morning and embark on your trip. 2 hours in, while travelling South on I-5, you encounter an erratic driver. The driver slams on the breaks suddenly, you turn to avoid the collision and end up in a ditch on the side of the road. While you are not seriously injured, the bike is completely totalled, and your family member reports having severe back pain. Both of you were wearing helmets, and the driver is cooperative when you ask for his information. Upon contacting your inssurance, they offer a seemingly fair amount to help pay for the medical and property expenses. However, you remember to call Portland Personal Injury Attorneys, are directed to an experienced lawyer, and given a settlement much larger than originally offered, all in a reasonable timeframe.
A Final Word
The sense of freedom owning and operating a motorcycle creates is an experience that anyone can appreciate. But this sense of freedom also comes with extra safety risks and precautions that you must take in order to prevent injury to yourself or others. Even when you are 100% not at fault in a motorcycle accident, the possible injuries and damages associated with the accident can leave scars that take a lifetime to heal. Let the pros at Portland Personal Injury Attorneys help direct you to a lawyer that will get you the settlement you rightfully deserve.