Motorcycle accidents have the potential to be horrifically catastrophic. Motorcycles are small vehicles with very minimal protection for the drivers. Crashing into anything, from larger vehicles to debris in the road, could result in terrible injury, rampant property damage, and legal action. It is important that you take the proper steps to protect yourself in the event of a motorcycle accident by consulting with our Kane County motorcycle accident attorneys.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Not every motorcycle accident is the fault of the rider. Motorcycles are small and sometimes difficult to notice, especially if car and truck drivers are distracted. When you have been involved in a motorcycle crash, it is imperative that you contact a crash lawyer who can help you determine fault and receive proper compensatory damages for the accident.
Around 90,000 motorcycle accidents happen in the United States every year. That may seem like a low statistic, but it does not take much for you to wind up in a motorcycle accident.
Motorcycle accidents can be the direct result of multiple situations that arise while driving, not just for the rider but for the drivers around the rider as well. Here are some of the more common causes of motorcycle accidents that you can be aware of and attempt to avoid if possible:
- DUIs: Driving while under the influence (DUI) is illegal in every state in the country, including Illinois. Driving while under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol seriously impedes your judgment and impairs your ability to operate a vehicle effectively. If you are pulled over for a DUI, you could be facing hefty fines, potential jail time, and a revocation of your driver’s license. If it turns out the other driver involved in the accident was under the influence, you may have a substantial case on your hands. Contact a motorcycle accident lawyer and find out what your options are for pursuing liability and compensatory damages.
- Speeding: It is no secret that motorcyclists enjoy driving fast. A motorcycle is a stylish, sporty vehicle that goes way beyond the speed limit. It’s a thrilling hobby that can get out of hand really quickly. Speed limits exist to minimize the speed of the road in question, which in turn helps reduce the amount of fatal or injury crashes that occur on that stretch of road.
- Faulty Equipment: If some mechanical failure occurs on the motorcycle, it can cause a devastating accident for the rider and for the drivers around them. It is vitally important to maintain your motorcycle properly and ensure that every part of it is in proper working order. The last thing you want is for your motorcycle’s brakes to fail on the highway because you didn’t bother getting them checked. Mechanical failure could lead to significant legal action that could award you compensatory damages.
- Poor Road Conditions: The condition of the road plays a big part in identifying fault in a motorcycle accident. There are certain elements of a poorly maintained road that might not affect a car that much but could cause a motorcycle some irreparable damage, both to the rider and the vehicle itself. It is crucial to recognize construction and pavement defects as they become known.
What Do You Do if There Is a Motorcycle Accident?
Motorcycle accidents in Kane County are no laughing matter. They can cause significant destruction and result in serious injury or even death. If you are ever involved in a motorcycle accident, it is important to take the proper precautions to both ensure your safety and document the accident scene. Here are some steps you can take to make sure everything goes as smoothly as possible:
- Stay Calm: When you have been in a serious motorcycle accident, the most important thing you can do is stay calm. Your first instinct may be to panic. Panicking does not help the situation and may, in fact, make it worse. Take a few deep breaths, get yourself together, and assess the immediate situation.
- Get Yourself to Safety: A motorcycle crash will likely leave you exposed and in the middle of the road. If you are not seriously injured, get yourself to safety. Do not attempt to move the motorcycle. You could risk further injury, further damage to the vehicle, or compromising any pertinent evidence. At the moment, your priority is your own safety.
- Don’t Remove Your Gear: After a crash, your first instinct may be to remove your riding gear, including your helmet and any pads. It is recommended that you do not do this. Removing your helmet could cause additional neck, head, or spine damage. Removing your gloves and boots could exacerbate your injury if one is already present. You will want to limit movement as much as you can until the EMTs arrive to look you over.
- Call 911: If you are physically able, call emergency services as soon as possible. If you are too injured to do so, try to get anyone else’s attention and have them call 911 instead. Once police and EMTs arrive, allow the EMTs to look you over for any immediately obvious injuries. You will want to visit a doctor’s office later to look for any further, possibly internal injuries that may be overlooked during this initial examination.
- Document the Scene: If you are physically able, you can begin documenting the scene of the accident after the authorities have arrived. Take photos of any vehicle damage, injuries, property damage, road conditions, and insurance information provided by any of the other drivers involved in the accident. Be sure to gather witness statements as well.
Reach Out to a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today
Being involved in a motorcycle accident can be a traumatizing experience, as well as a physically exhausting one. If you are involved in one, you may be able to seek compensatory damages from any liable parties. The legal team at Franks Gerkin Ponitz & Greeley is prepared to help you develop your case and advocate on your behalf. Contact us to schedule a consultation as soon as you can.
