Roanoke Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

Compassionate Advocacy for Injured Riders & Passengers

Motorcyclists face a much higher risk of injury and death in an accident than those in cars or trucks. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, motorcyclists have a fatality rate per vehicle mile traveled that is more than 27 times higher than that of car occupants. In fact, motorcyclists are about 5 times more likely to be killed in a crash than those in passenger vehicles.

At Kalfus & Nachman PC, our Roanoke motorcycle accident lawyers understand the dangers motorcyclists face on the road. We are committed to helping those who have been injured or have lost a loved one in a crash caused by another person's negligence.

Do you need a motorcycle accident lawyer in Roanoke? Call (855) 880-8163 or contact us online today for a free consultation!

What Causes Motorcycle Accidents?

Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable to injury and death due to a number of factors. First, they have much less protection than those in cars or trucks. Unlike passenger vehicles, motorcycles have little to no safety equipment. This includes airbags, seatbelts, and even a roof. Second, they are much more difficult to see. Motorcycles are much smaller than cars and trucks and can easily get lost in a driver's blind spot. Third, they are less stable. Motorcycles are more prone to tipping over than cars and trucks.

The following are some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents:

• Left Turn Accidents: One of the most frequent types of accidents occurs when a motorist makes a left turn in front of an oncoming motorcycle. This often happens because the driver fails to see the motorcycle or misjudges its speed.
• Intersection Collisions: Accidents at intersections are prevalent. This includes situations where a car or truck fails to yield the right-of-way, runs a red light, or stops suddenly, leading to a rear-end collision with the motorcycle.
• Lane Changes: When drivers change lanes without properly checking their blind spots, they can collide with motorcycles in adjacent lanes. Motorcycles are smaller and may be less visible, making it crucial for drivers to be extra vigilant when changing lanes.
• Failure to Yield: Drivers may not yield the right-of-way to motorcycles, especially at intersections or when merging onto highways. This can lead to T-bone accidents or rear-end collisions.
• Distracted Driving: Drivers using their smartphones, eating, or engaging in other distracting behaviors are a significant hazard to motorcyclists. Distracted drivers are less likely to notice motorcycles in their vicinity.
• Speeding: Speeding by either the motorcyclist or the driver of a motor vehicle can reduce reaction time and increase the severity of the collision in case of an accident.
• Impaired Driving: Alcohol or drug impairment can severely affect a driver's judgment, reaction time, and coordination. Impaired drivers are more likely to cause accidents, and motorcyclists are at high risk when involved.
• Failure to See the Motorcycle: Motorcycles are smaller and less visible than cars and trucks. Sometimes, drivers simply fail to notice motorcycles, leading to accidents.
• Opening Car Doors: A common accident occurs when a driver or passenger in a parked car opens a door without checking for approaching motorcycles. This can result in a collision known as "dooring."
• Weather Conditions: Poor weather conditions, such as rain, fog, or snow, can reduce visibility and make road surfaces slippery. These conditions increase the risk of accidents involving motorcycles.
• Inexperienced or Untrained Riders: Inexperienced motorcyclists may not have the skills or knowledge to handle challenging situations on the road, making them more susceptible to accidents.
• Motorcycle Defects: Mechanical failures in motorcycles, such as brake or tire issues, can lead to accidents. Regular maintenance and inspections are crucial for motorcycle safety.

What Are the Most Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents?

Motorcycle riders and passengers can suffer a wide range of injuries in a crash. These can include:

• Broken bones
• Internal bleeding
• Spinal cord injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Road rash
• Lacerations
• Amputations
• Burns
• Soft tissue damage

In many cases, even seemingly minor accidents can cause life-changing injuries. Our Roanoke motorcycle accident lawyers know that even a seemingly minor accident can result in catastrophic injuries to a motorcyclist. This is due to the lack of safety equipment and the instability of motorcycles. We know how to investigate these cases and can help secure the compensation you need to get the care you need.

How Can an Attorney Help Me After a Motorcycle Accident?

If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, you need a strong legal advocate on your side. Our Roanoke motorcycle accident lawyers know how to investigate a crash and can help you recover the compensation you need to move forward.

An attorney can help you with the following in a motorcycle accident claim:

• Investigating the accident
• Determining fault
• Calculating your damages
• Negotiating a settlement
• Representing you in court

Depending on the circumstances of your accident, you may be able to file a claim against the driver, the motorcycle manufacturer, the motorcycle dealership, the helmet manufacturer, the helmet dealership, and/or the helmet retailer. We have the experience and resources to handle your case against all of these entities.

Let Our Firm Help You at No Upfront Cost

In most cases, our Roanoke motorcycle accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis. This means we are paid only if we recover compensation on your behalf. We do not get paid if we do not win.

Our team will work with you to determine the best way to recover compensation and will fight to ensure you get the maximum amount possible. We know how to negotiate with insurance companies and can help you get the care you need.

Contact us today at (855) 880-8163 for a free case review.