Raleigh Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

Raleigh Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

For those who ride motorcycles, there is nothing like the freedom of the open road. There are few states with the beauty and variety of riding environments of North Carolina. From winding mountain roads to wide open coastal highways, it is hard to think of a better way to enjoy our state than from the saddle of your bike.

Unfortunately, motorcycle riders are too often the victims of motorcycle wrecks resulting from the negligence of cars, trucks, and other riders. Motorcyclists face high risks on the road. The lack of protection from other vehicles makes severe motorcycle accidents a constant danger. When accidents do occur, riders are not protected by crumple zones or airbags. This creates a serious risk for bikers to sustain severe injuries even when proper protective gear is worn. Riders are more than 25 times more likely than passengers in cars or trucks to be killed if they are involved in a crash.

Since 1993, our trusted team at Edwards Kirby has served those involved in these personal injury cases, recovering over $500 million for our clients. Our record-setting verdicts and settlements combined with the care and compassion we show our clients are why we’re considered one of the top North Carolina motorcycle accident attorney firms.

Looked But Didn’t See LBDS

Unfortunately, even when riders do everything in their power to be safe, motorcycle accidents can still occur. In most accidents involving a motorcyclist and another vehicle, the accident is caused by the driver of the other vehicle entering the motorcyclist’s right of way. One of the most common causes that police record for motorcycle accidents is “LBDS” – looked but didn’t see . Car and truck drivers involved in accidents with riders often state that they looked for other vehicles before they entered the rider’s right-of-way but didn’t see the rider.

What Should You Do When a Motorcycle Accident Happens?

At the Scene: Your safety is the priority.

• If you are able to do so, move yourself out of traffic.
• Call 911 if possible to alert law enforcement and first responders .
• Keep your safety gear on including your helmet.
• Collect information about the other vehicles involved including pictures and insurance information.
• Collect information from bystanders and witnesses if possible.
• Not any strange behavior from other driver.

*Having an In Case of Emergency contact saved in your phone can allow responders to identify you and contact loved ones should you lose consciousness because of the accident.

After the Accident: Seek medical assistance and document your injuries and any treatment you receive.

If you are able, you should also obtain a police accident report.

Once you are safe and have received any emergency treatment you may need, contact an Edwards Kirby motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible. During this time, you will likely be contacted by an insurance company ‘s claims adjuster. Do not speak to this person without first consulting an Edwards Kirby motorcycle accident attorney or lawyer about your case. Any admission of fault or negligence by you could put your claim and recovery in jeopardy.

Even when riders do everything in their power to be safe, accidents still happen. When an accident occurs, riders should focus first on their health and recovery. An Edwards Kirby motorcycle accident attorney can help you by investigating your accident, finding and maintaining evidence, determining fault and ensuring that insurance companies play fair.

Do I Have a Motorcycle Accident Claim to Pursue?

When a preventable accident occurs, victims and their families are entitled to financial compensation for the damage and losses that result. Our motorcycle accident lawyers evaluate cases carefully to determine whether the accident was preventable and who is at fault. When you are the victim of another party’s wrongdoing, we work to get you the recovery that you deserve, fighting against insurance carriers who often try to undermine those who are injured.

To win a motorcycle lawsuit, the plaintiff must prove the following:

• That the defendant owed them a legal duty (responsible driving, proper road maintenance, safety in manufacturing, etc.)
• That the defendant was negligent in this duty
• That the defendant’s negligence directly caused your injury
• That you have suffered damage and loss as a result of the accident

Common Causes of Motorcycles Accidents in North Carolina

A primary aspect of our role is to determine the cause of your motorcycle accident. Though every case is different, there are common collision causes of motorcycle accidents that result in proving negligence and determining fault, including:

• Driving while impaired by alcohol or drugs
• Driving while distracted
• Speeding
• Running red lights
• Changing lanes recklessly
• Securing cargo improperly
• Overloading large trucks
• Manufacturing defective auto parts
• Failing to properly maintain roadways
• Left-turn accidents
• Head-on collisions
• Sudden stops
• Tailgating / Following too closely
• Lane splitting
• Open car doors (“dooring”)
• Road hazards (e.g., potholes, debris, loose gravel)
• Motorcycle defects or poor maintenance
• Inexperienced or unlicensed drivers

What is My Motorcycle Accident Claim Worth?

Determining damages in a motorcycle accident lawsuit is a complicated process and will be different in every case. An Edwards Kirby motorcycle accident lawyer can work with you to determine the value of your claim. Factors that go into this determination include details of the accident, insurance policies of the parties involved, liability analysis, property damage, medical expenses, lost wages from missed work, pain and suffering and whether there are permanent injuries.

Getting Compensation For Injured Motorcyclists

Easing the Burden for Victims and Their Families

Motorcyclists often face life-changing injuries when involved in an accident. Many motorcycle accidents result in severe trauma, including:

• Brain injuries
• Neck, back, and spinal cord injuries
• Permanent disability or paralysis
• Disfigurement
• Loss of limbs
• Severe burns

These injuries require significant and often ongoing medical care, and recovery is long and painful. It’s not uncommon for injuries of this kind to require life-long medical needs. Because of that, we at Edwards Kirby fight to get victims the compensation required to ease financial burdens and help improve quality of life. We not only work to prove a defendant’s fault and liability, but also with medical experts to determine the nature and extent of damage caused to our clients, whether it be past, present, or future.

Recoverable damages in the case of motorcycle accidents may include:

• Medical bills
• Expenses for medications and medical devices
• Expenses for continuing care
• Past and future income loss due to injury
• Physical and emotional suffering
• Other economic or non-economic damages

Contact Edwards Kirby Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

Edwards Kirby’s motorcycle accident attorneys have a proven track record of success throughout North Carolina and have achieved record-setting verdicts and settlements in the state. If you or a loved one have suffered an injury in a motorcycle accident as a result of another’s negligence, you are entitled to compensation for injuries suffered, medical expenses incurred as a result of the injury, lost wages from missed work, and pain and suffering. If you have suffered an injury because of the negligence of another, Edwards Kirby has experienced motorcycle accident attorneys who can help you navigate the complexities of your lawsuit. Remember, you don’t pay us unless we recover.

How does North Carolina’s contributory negligence law affect motorcycle accident claims in Raleigh?

We know that riding in North Carolina comes with its own set of challenges, and the state’s “contributory negligence” law adds another layer. If you’re found to be slightly responsible for your motorcycle accident, it could affect your ability to get the compensation you deserve. Even if the other driver was clearly in the wrong, sharing a small percentage of the blame could make a big difference.

At Edwards Kirby, we’ve been navigating these legal roads for years. We understand the intricacies of contributory negligence and how to build a strong case that protects your rights. We’ll thoroughly investigate the accident, gather evidence, and work tirelessly to demonstrate the other driver’s fault.

Ready to talk strategy? Contact us for a free consultation. We’re here to help you get back on the road to recovery.

How long do I have to file a claim after a motorcycle accident?

After a motorcycle accident, it’s important to act quickly. In North Carolina, there’s a limited window of time to file a claim for your injuries. The statute of limitations is generally three years from the date of the accident, so if you miss that deadline, you could miss out on getting the compensation you need to heal and rebuild.

While this rule has some exceptions, it’s always best to be proactive. The sooner you reach out to us, the sooner we can build your case and preserve crucial evidence. We’re here to guide you through the legal process, answer your questions, and make sure you don’t miss any important deadlines. Contact us today for a free consultation.

Motorcycle Accident FAQs

Can I still file a claim if I wasn’t wearing a helmet in North Carolina?

Yes, you can still file a claim — but not wearing a helmet can affect your case. North Carolina law requires all motorcyclists and passengers to wear helmets. If you weren’t wearing one at the time of the accident, the other party’s insurance company may try to argue that your injuries were partially your fault, even if they caused the crash.

How much is my motorcycle accident case worth?

There’s no fixed value for a motorcycle accident claim, as every case is different. The final amount depends on the specific details of your accident, the impact it has had on your life, and the circumstances surrounding who was at fault. At Edwards Kirby, we take the time to fully evaluate your situation — working closely with experts to determine the true extent of your losses — so we can fight for the compensation you deserve. Whether through settlement or trial, our goal is always to maximize your recovery.