Riding a motorcycle is a unique experience, but it comes with risks. In Oklahoma City, like everywhere else, accidents happen, and they can be life-altering. The trauma from these accidents isn’t just physical but emotional and financial. If you’re involved in a motorcycle crash, having a knowledgeable Oklahoma City motorcycle accident lawyer like those at Hasbrook & Hasbrook is essential.
How Our Oklahoma City Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Can Help You After You’re Involved in a Crash
A motorcycle wreck can lead to catastrophic injuries and wrongful death cases. There are several ways we can help you after a crash, including:
Initial Consultation and Case Evaluation
We’ll listen to your story when you first meet with our team. We want to understand every detail of the motorcycle accident. This initial chat helps us gauge the strength of your case. Plus, you can ask questions and understand your legal position.
Investigation and Evidence Collection
After the initial meeting with your motorcycle accident attorney, we’ll start our investigation. We’ll visit the crash site, look for CCTV footage, and talk to witnesses. Collecting solid evidence is vital to proving your case. With it, we can show who was at fault and why.
Communication With Insurance Companies
Dealing with insurance companies can take time and effort. They often look out for their bottom line, not your best interest. Our motorcycle accident attorneys will handle all talks with them, ensuring you’re not taken advantage of. We’ll push for a settlement that genuinely reflects your losses.
Negotiation and Settlement Discussions
Most motorcycle accident cases settle out of court. Our team is skilled at negotiation. We’ll talk with the other party, working to get you a fair settlement. If we can settle, it saves you time and stress.
Litigation Process and Trial Representation if Necessary
Sometimes, a fair agreement needs to be reached. If that happens, we’re ready to take your case to court. We’ll represent you, fighting for your rights and ensuring your voice is heard. Our motorcycle accident attorneys have the experience and knowledge to navigate the courtroom confidently.
Motorcycle Laws in Oklahoma City
Oklahoma City has clear laws for motorcyclists. These laws aim to keep everyone on the road safe. For instance, riders and their passengers must wear helmets if they’re under 18. This rule reduces head injuries, which can be severe in motorcycle crashes.
Also, all motorcycles need eye protection unless they have a windscreen. Oklahoma City’s laws also discuss motorcycle equipment standards, rights and responsibilities on the road, and licensing requirements. Staying informed about these laws can make your rides safer and keep you on the right side of the law.
Motorcycle Accident Statistics in Oklahoma City
Motorcycle accidents are sadly common in Oklahoma City. Recent years have seen hundreds of motorcycle-related crashes in the state. Not all are fatal, but they may lead to serious injuries. These motorcycle crashes remind us of the need for safe riding and driving habits. Of note, Oklahoma City has one of the lowest helmet usage rates in the country.
According to the NHTSA, only 20% of the fatalities in Oklahoma City involving a motorcycle were wearing a helmet at the time of the accident.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Accidents don’t just happen; there’s usually a reason. When it comes to motorcycles, the causes can be varied.
Vehicle-Driver Negligence
Cars, trucks, and other larger vehicles often overlook motorcyclists. Whether it’s due to blind spots or just inattention, this negligence leads to crashes. When drivers don’t check mirrors or signals before turns, it can spell disaster for motorcyclists nearby. Motorcycles might be smaller, but they have the same rights on the road.
Distracted Driving
Smartphones and in-car entertainment systems are just two of the many sources of distractions today. When drivers divide their attention, they miss vital details, like a motorcycle beside them. One moment of distraction can have lifelong consequences for a motorcyclist. Drivers must stay focused and avoid using phones or other gadgets while driving.
Lane Changing Accidents
Lanes seem simple, but they’re often the site of motorcycle accidents. When a car switches lanes without checking or signaling, the driver can hit a motorcyclist. Motorcycles are smaller, making them easy to miss if a driver isn’t careful. Constantly checking blind spots and signaling can prevent a motorcycle crash, which is typically more severe than a standard car accident.
Speeding and Reckless Driving
Speed thrills, but it also kills. When drivers speed or drive recklessly, they make the road dangerous for everyone, especially motorcyclists. Fast driving reduces reaction time and increases crash impact. Reckless behaviors, like tailgating or weaving through traffic, can lead to severe collisions.
Factors Contributing to Motorcycle Accidents
Occasionally, motorcycle accidents will occur due to matters outside of human control. These may include the following:
- Road Conditions and Hazards: Potholes, debris, and wet leaves can be dangerous for motorcyclists. Unlike cars, motorcycles have only two wheels, making them more vulnerable to slipping. Being aware of road conditions can help riders avoid accidents.
- Weather Conditions: Rain, fog, or icy conditions can make riding tricky. Slippery roads can lead to skidding. Limited visibility in fog means riders and drivers must be extra cautious. Weather-appropriate gear can also help riders stay safe.
- Vehicle Defects: Sometimes, it’s not the rider or the driver but the motorcycle itself. Faulty brakes, engine issues, or tire defects can cause accidents. Regular maintenance checks can prevent these mechanical failures.
- Impaired Driving: Alcohol or drugs dull reflexes and judgment. Whether it’s the motorcyclist or another driver, impaired driving is dangerous. Always avoid riding or driving under the influence.
Common Injuries Sustained in Oklahoma City Motorcycle Accidents
A motorcycle accident can lead to catastrophic injuries. The lack of protection means riders can get seriously hurt even in minor collisions. A few common motorcycle accident injuries include the following.
- Head Injuries: Helmets are crucial in protecting riders from severe injuries. However, riders can still sustain head injuries, including concussions, despite their use.
- Road Rash: Motorcycle accidents can cause riders to slide on the pavement. This sliding can result in road rash, leading to severe skin abrasions.
- Broken Bones: The impact of a motorcycle fall can be intense. Such falls often result in broken bones or fractures.
- Spinal Injuries: Accidents involving motorcycles can sometimes result in spinal injuries. These injuries can be severe, leading to life-altering consequences like paralysis.
- Burns: There are instances where motorcycles can catch fire post-accident or expose riders to hot metal. In such situations, riders can sustain serious burns.
- Internal Injuries: Not all injuries from a motorcycle crash are externally visible. Riders can suffer from internal injuries, which, while hidden, can be critically serious.
- Leg and Foot Injuries: The weight of a motorcycle is substantial. If it falls onto a rider’s leg or foot during an accident, it can cause significant injuries.
Accidents can change lives in seconds. See a doctor after a crash and consult an experienced motorcycle accident attorney to learn your rights.
What To Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Oklahoma City
After a motorcycle accident, the following steps are crucial. They can affect your recovery and any legal action you might take. A few steps to take include the following.
- Stay Calm: It’s natural to feel overwhelmed. However, panicking won’t help; instead, take deep breaths and stay calm.
- Check for Injuries: Your safety is paramount. Before you make any movements, quickly assess yourself for any injuries, and if you can move without causing harm, find a safe location.
- Call 911: It’s essential to promptly report the accident to the authorities. Dial 911, and if you’ve sustained injuries, ensure you request medical assistance.
- Document the Scene: Accurate documentation can prove invaluable later on. Take clear photos of the accident scene and jot down any relevant details.
- Get Witness Details: Witnesses can provide an unbiased account of what transpired. If anyone saw the accident, approach them and politely ask for their contact information.
- Seek Medical Attention: Some injuries aren’t immediately apparent post-accident. Even if you feel alright, see a doctor to ensure no underlying issues might surface later.
Remember, your health comes first. Once you’ve done that, consult a motorcycle accident attorney to review your case.
Establishing Liability and Proving Negligence for Your Motorcycle Accident
To win a motorcycle accident case, you must prove negligence. First, you need to show that the other party had a duty of care towards you. This means they should have acted reasonably to prevent harm. Next, you need to prove a breach of that duty. This is where you show that the other party acted carelessly or recklessly.
Further, it would help if you linked that breach directly to your injuries. This is known as direct causation. Finally, you need to prove that you suffered damages, be it physical, emotional, or financial. With these elements, you can establish liability and seek compensation.
Dealing With Insurance Companies
Insurance companies can be challenging. Their primary goal is often to pay out as little as possible. They might offer a quick, low settlement when you file a motorcycle accident claim. It’s tempting, especially with mounting bills, but it might only cover some expenses. Remember, once you accept, you can’t ask for more later.
Your motorcycle accident lawyer will know how to negotiate with insurance companies. They’ll ensure all your damages, from medical bills to lost wages, are considered. With expert help, you can get a fair settlement reflecting your losses.
Statute of Limitations for Motorcycle Accident Lawsuits in Oklahoma City
Like the rest of the state, Oklahoma City has a time limit for filing motorcycle crash lawsuits. Generally, you have two years from the accident date. You might lose the right to seek compensation if you miss this window.
There are some exceptions, but they’re rare. It’s crucial to act quickly after an accident. The sooner you consult a motorcycle accident lawyer, the better your chances of recovering the compensation you deserve.
Damages Oklahoma City Motorcycle Accident Victims Can Recover
Motorcycle accident victims often face various losses. From medical bills to emotional trauma, the impacts can be extensive. Understanding these damages can help victims get fair compensation in their motorcycle accident claims and lawsuits.
Economic Damages
After a motorcycle accident, you’ll notice it costs money to deal with the consequences. These “economic damages” include:
- Medical Bills: These encompass all your medical treatment costs. Attending to injuries immediately can sometimes lead to unexpected medical bills.
- Therapy Costs: Rehabilitation might be necessary depending on your injuries. Recovery can be a long journey, and therapy sessions are pivotal.
- Lost Wages: Missing work means missed income during your recovery. The time off work to heal can significantly reduce your regular earnings.
- Lost Future Earnings: If the accident alters your ability to work or necessitates a job change, your potential future income shouldn’t be compromised.
- Straightforward Calculation: Economic damages are typically easier to quantify. A precise tally of bills and missed income provides a direct figure.
Financial recovery is vital. Ensuring you’re compensated for these tangible losses aids in restoring some semblance of normalcy.
Non-Economic Damages
The repercussions of an accident aren’t just financial; there’s a profound emotional and mental toll:
- Pain and Suffering: The physical and mental distress post-accident. Healing is more than just mending bones; it’s about finding peace, too.
- Loss of Enjoyment of Life: If the accident hinders you from enjoying daily activities. Every individual deserves to relish life’s moments, big or small.
- Emotional Distress: Trauma, anxiety, or depression arising from the accident. Accidents can leave mental scars, sometimes more lasting than physical ones.
- Difficult to Quantify: Assigning a dollar amount to these damages is challenging. There’s no direct price tag for emotions and experiences.
- Evidence and Testimony: With robust evidence and expert insights, you can claim these damages. The intangibility of these damages requires strong representation and validation.
While these damages might seem elusive, you can ensure that your emotional and psychological well-being is acknowledged and compensated for with the proper support.
Punitive Damages
Punitive damages are meant to punish the offender and deter similar behavior in the future. The court might award punitive damages if the other party’s behavior was incredibly reckless or malicious.
Contact Our Oklahoma City Motorcycle Accident Lawyer at Hasbrook & Hasbrook for an Initial Consultation Today
If you or a loved one faces the aftermath of a motorcycle accident in Oklahoma City, you don’t have to face it alone. At Hasbrook & Hasbrook, we understand the challenges and the trauma. Our motorcycle accident attorneys are here to help and guide you through the legal process.
With our expertise, we’ll fight for your rights and ensure you get the compensation you deserve. Every accident is unique, and we treat every client with the individual attention they deserve. Don’t wait.
Contact us today, and let our Oklahoma City motorcycle accident lawyers be your ally in this challenging journey.