IT'S MORE TO US, IT'S PERSONAL
Injured by Negligence? Call Wettermark Keith for the the Best Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in the Southeast
The freedom of the open road is a feeling that’s difficult to describe. The engine roars beneath you as you tear down the highway, smelling exhaust from passing cars and the freshly mown grass on the side of the road. The wind in your hair, the sun on your face, and the blur of color and motion are all part of the experience. For most bikers, this feeling of freedom is what drives them to ride - but this freedom can also be dangerous.
Because motorcycles are smaller and less visible than cars - with no windshield, seat belt, or metal cage - they offer far less protection to the rider in the event of a crash. When a car and a motorcycle collide head-on, the car's airbags will deploy as the front crumples, cushioning the driver and passengers from the impact. The motorcyclist, on the other hand, will likely be thrown from the bike, hitting the ground full force. This can cause serious injuries, ranging from broken bones to traumatic brain injuries to paralysis - or death.
While drivers are required to treat motorcycles the same as any other vehicle, they often fail to do so, placing motorcycle riders at risk for death or serious injury. Motorcycle riders are 27 times more likely to be killed in a crash than passenger car occupants - and 76% of fatal accidents involving bikers and cars are the result of a head-on collision. One driver’s moment of inattention can result in a collision that ruins their week, but changes your life forever.
If you've been injured in a motorcycle accident due to a negligent driver, you may be facing a long road to recovery. You may be in pain, unable to work, and struggling to pay your medical bills while trying to negotiate with insurance companies. Know that you don't have to go through this alone. Our accident lawyers specialize in ensuring that motorcycle accident victims obtain the compensation they deserve. We understand the desire for freedom that drives you and the pain and frustration you feel when an accident limits that freedom. Our motorcycle accident lawyers will work tirelessly to get you the justice you deserve. Contact our legal team today for a free consultation at (877) 715-9300.
Accidents can be devastating, both physically and financially. If you've been injured in a motorcycle accident, you need an experienced motorcycle accident attorney to fight for your rights. At Wettermark Keith law firm, our attorneys have over 30 years of experience representing injured motorcycle riders. We know the law, we know how to get results, and we'll work tirelessly to get you the compensation you deserve.
How Motorcycle Accidents Happen
Motorcyclists often bear unfair blame for accidents, despite many incidents being caused by other drivers or uncontrollable factors. Motorcycle accidents can happen for a wide variety of reasons, including:
Driver error: The most common cause of motorcycle accidents is errors made by other drivers, not the motorcyclists. These errors include distracted driving, speeding, and driving under the influence. These behaviors by car and truck drivers can pose significant threats to motorcyclists who are sharing the road.
Road conditions: Poor road conditions can also contribute to accidents. This includes things like wet roads, gravel, and potholes.
Inattentiveness: Accidents can occur when drivers of cars and trucks do not pay adequate attention to their surroundings. Negligent behaviors like talking on the phone, texting, or being distracted by passengers can lead to drivers not noticing motorcyclists.
Mechanical failure: In rare cases, accidents can be caused by mechanical failure of the motorcycle, such as a tire blowout or a brake failure.
What To Do After a Motorcycle Accident
When riders come to their senses after a motorcycle crash, they’re often in a world of pain, disoriented and confused, with several broken bones or a concussion. They struggle to sit up, only to look around and see that their motorcycle is totaled. While it’s difficult to know what to do in this situation, our lawyers recommend that you follow the steps below:
Stay calm and assess the situation - if you are able, move your motorcycle to a safe location out of traffic. If you are injured, call 911 immediately. If you don’t think you’re injured, seek medical assistance regardless - adrenaline has been known to mask serious injuries.
Exchange information with the other driver - This includes their name, address, insurance information, and license plate number. If the other driver is not cooperative, or if you cannot get their information, call the police. Remember - never admit fault at any time after the accident.
Take pictures of the accident scene - this includes the damage to your motorcycle, the other vehicles involved, and the road conditions. This will help you document the accident to file a claim with your insurance company.
Report the accident to your insurance company - they will help you file a claim and get your motorcycle repaired or replaced.
Contact our lawyers - we understand that sometimes insurance companies will try to lowball you or deny the compensation you deserve for your injuries. Our accident lawyers will defend your rights - all the way to the courtroom, if necessary. If you have any questions or concerns about your legal rights after an accident, our lawyers can help you understand your options.
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Motorcycle accidents cause a wide variety of injuries, their severity depending on the safety precautions taken at the time of the accident. Motorcycle riders who wear a helmet and drive the speed limit are less likely to receive life-altering injuries. Some of the most common injuries accident victims sustain include:
Road rash - road rash is a type of abrasion that occurs when the skin is scraped off against a rough surface, such as asphalt. It can be painful and can take weeks or months to heal.
Head and neck injuries - head and neck injuries are among the most serious motorcycle accident injuries. They can include traumatic brain injuries (TBIs), spinal cord injuries, and neck fractures. TBIs can cause long-term cognitive and physical problems, while spinal cord injuries can lead to paralysis.
Broken bones - though bones can be broken in any part of the body during an accident, breaks are most common in the arms, legs, and ribs.
Internal injuries - internal injuries are less common than external injuries, but more difficult to treat. They can include organ damage, internal bleeding, and heart injuries.
Lacerations - lacerations are cuts that can occur from the impact of the accident or from flying debris, such as pieces of windshield. They often require stitches or surgery to close.
Burns - the metal surrounding the exhaust pipes of motorcycles and other vehicles can reach up to 230 degrees Fahrenheit. During an accident, burns can occur from contact - brief or prolonged - with a scalding engine. Burns can be superficial or deep, and require medical treatment to prevent infection and scarring.
Dislocations - a dislocation occurs when a bone is forced out of its normal position in the joint. This can be an extremely painful injury that sometimes requires surgery to correct.
Sprains and strains - sprains and strains are injuries to the ligaments and tendons. They can range from mild to severe and can cause pain, swelling, and limited mobility.
Eye injuries - eye injuries can occur from flying debris or from the impact of the accident. They can range from minor to severe and may include corneal abrasions, retinal detachments, and even blindness.
Hearing loss - hearing loss can occur from the screeching metal and deafening noise of the accident, as well as from head trauma. It can be temporary or permanent.
Psychological trauma - accidents can be extremely traumatic - that should never be discounted. Both minor and serious accidents have been known to lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression.
Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
While there are many ways an accident can occur, some of the most common causes include:
This includes driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs, speeding, and swerving in and out of traffic.
Riders who are new to motorcycles are more likely to be involved in accidents.
Motorcycles, being smaller than cars and trucks, can be increasingly difficult to see in poor weather conditions.
Motorcycle riders who do not position themselves properly in the lane are more likely to be sideswiped by other vehicles.
Distraction due to phones, passengers, or other activities may lead directly to an accident.
Potholes, debris, and other road hazards can cause cars and motorcycles alike to lose control.
Motorcycles that aren’t properly maintained are more likely to break down, which can lead to accidents.
This is a common cause of accidents involving motorcycles. Motorcycle riders must be aware of their surroundings and yield the right of way to other vehicles.
Motorcycle riders and drivers who tailgate are more likely to be rear-ended, which can cause serious injuries.
Motorcycle riders and drivers who pass on the wrong side of the road are more likely to be involved in head-on collisions.
While it's true that motorcyclists should take steps to protect themselves, it's important to note that many motorcycle accidents occur due to the negligence of other drivers. Awareness of one's surroundings and the actions of others on the road is crucial in preventing motorcycle accidents. Our lawyers recommend the following strategies for motorcyclists to maximize safety and mitigate the risks posed by other drivers:
Wear a helmet - this is the single most important thing you can do to protect yourself in a motorcycle accident. Helmets can reduce your risk of death by up to 70%.
Be aware of your surroundings - Paying extra attention to what's happening around you is imperative. As a motorcyclist, you should anticipate and be prepared to react to sudden changes in conditions, including the unpredictable behavior of other road users, changing weather conditions, and road hazards.
Follow the speed limit - speeding is a factor in the vast majority of motorcycle accidents. Following the speed limit will help you stay in control of your bike and anticipate sudden changes on the road.
Be predictable (and visible) - try to ride in a predictable manner and use your signals to let other drivers know what you're doing. Increasing your visibility with bright clothing or reflective gear can also alert other drivers to your presence, helping them anticipate your movements and avoid potential collisions.
Avoid distractions - never talk on the phone, text, or eat while you're riding. Even one moment of distraction on the road can devastate your life and the lives around you.
Expect the unexpected - Despite your best efforts, situations can arise on the road that are beyond your control. Be proactive and ready to react quickly to sudden stops, swerves, or potholes.
Understand that other drivers may not see you - recognize that, unfortunately, some negligent drivers fail to notice motorcyclists. Make yourself as visible as possible, and never assume that a driver has seen you or will yield the right of way. Ride defensively, maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles and be prepared for anything.
What Damages Can I Claim in a Motorcycle Accident?
The damages that you can claim in a motorcycle accident will depend on the specific circumstances of your case. However, according to our lawyers, some of the most common damages include:
Medical expenses - this covers the cost of your medical care (both past and future), including doctor's visits, hospital stays, surgery, prescription medications, physical therapy, and other expenses.
Lost wages - these damages include any lost wages, commissions, bonuses, and other forms of income.
Pain and suffering - these damages compensate you for the physical and emotional pain and suffering you've experienced as a result of the accident, including headaches, pain and soreness, paralysis, anxiety, depression, and other forms of emotional distress.
Loss of enjoyment of life - this includes the things you can no longer do because of your injuries, such as playing sports, going to the movies, spending time with family and friends, and other activities that you used to enjoy.
Property damage - this covers the damage to your motorcycle or other property, paying for repairs, the replacement of your motorcycle, and the cost of lost wages if you were unable to use your motorcycle for work.
In addition to these common damages, you or your family may also be able to claim:
Wrongful death damages - if a family member is killed in an accident, their immediate family may be able to claim wrongful death damages. While these damages would never come close to compensating them for the loss of a loved one, it may help ease their financial burdens going forward.
Punitive damages - punitive damages are awarded in cases where the other driver's actions were reckless or intentional. These damages are intended to punish the other driver and deter them from engaging in similar behavior in the future.
The amount of damages that you can recover will depend on the specific circumstances of your case. Regardless, if you have been injured in an accident, a free consultation with our trusted motorcycle accident lawyers can help you understand your legal options. Our lawyers are fully prepared to protect your right to compensation. Your attorney will lift the legal burdens from your shoulders, freeing you to focus on recovery.
Our 3-Step Process
Connect With Us:
Call our office at (877) 715-9300 or use our online form to arrange a no-cost, no-obligation consultation with our legal team.
We Assess Your Case
In our initial review, our experienced team will analyze the details of your case and map out potential strategies. If you've experienced an injury due to negligence, we’ll assign one of our expert personal injury attorneys to handle your case.
We Defend Your Rights
As one of the Southeast’s top personal injury firms, Wettermark Keith is fully committed to advocating for your rightful compensation and recovery. If an injury has disrupted your life, let our dedicated attorneys seek justice on your behalf.
Frequently Asked Questions
The length of time it takes to get over a motorcycle accident can vary depending on the severity of the accident and the personal injury sustained. Some people may be able to recover from a crash within a few months, while others may take years. There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question. Below are some factors that can affect how long it takes to recover from a motorcycle accident:
- The severity of the personal injury sustained.
- The age and overall health of the victim.
- The availability of supportive care, such as physical therapy.
- The victim's mental and emotional state.
It is important to remember that there is no rush to get over a motorcycle accident. It is important to take the time to heal both physically and emotionally after your crash. If you are struggling to cope with the aftermath of a motorcycle accident, it is important to seek professional assistance.
The odds of getting in a motorcycle accident are relatively high. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcyclist riders are 27 times more likely to be killed in a crash than occupants of passenger cars. However, there are a number of factors that can increase the risk of being involved in a motorcycle accident (or a car accident), including reckless driving by other motorists, poor weather conditions, and distracted driving.
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, it is important to speak with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney as soon as possible. Your motorcycle crash attorney can help you understand your legal rights, review your options, and represent you in negotiations with the insurance company.
Listed below are some tips for finding the best motorcycle accident lawyer:
- Ask for attorney recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues.
- Contact your state bar association for a list of motorcycle accident lawyers.
- Interview several lawyers before making a decision on the best.
Our motorcycle accident lawyers are not only experienced, but dedicated. We treat each and every client with the compassion, respect, and commitment they deserve, and we won’t rest until justice is done.
If you’re involved in a motorcycle accident, remember that your safety comes first. Even if you’re not currently in pain, make sure you undergo an evaluation by a licensed medical professional. After your health is taken care of, take pictures of the accident scene and your injury (or injuries), then call the police to report the accident. Make sure that: (a) you don’t admit fault, and (b) you obtain a copy of the police report - this can prove to be important evidence later.
If you abstain from hiring a motorcycle accident lawyer, you may be at risk of not receiving the full compensation that you deserve. The insurance company may provide a poor settlement offer - or even deny your claim altogether. The motorcycle accident lawyers at Wettermark Keith law firm can help you negotiate with the insurance company and ensure that you receive the maximum compensation for your injuries.
The statute of limitations is the time limit within which you must file a lawsuit after an accident. The statute of limitations for motorcycle accidents varies from state to state. In most states, the statute of limitations after an accident is two years. However, it is important to check the statute of limitations in your state to make sure. Your attorney will be happy to review your case and answer any questions you may have.
In most cases, motorcycle accidents are covered by insurance. However, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you need to make sure that you have adequate insurance coverage. Second, you need to file a claim with your insurance company promptly. Third, you may need to hire an attorney to help you with your claim and increase your chances of success. An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can make the difference between a full recovery and long-term physical and financial struggle.
Even though motorcycle accidents can be devastating, both physically and financially, many still hesitate to file a lawsuit. While there are a number of factors to consider when making this decision, filing a lawsuit may be the only way to obtain the compensation you need to recover after a crash. Below are some of the reasons why you might need to file a lawsuit after a motorcycle accident:
- To hold the at-fault driver accountable - if you suffered a personal injury in a motorcycle accident due to the negligence of another driver, filing a lawsuit can help you hold that driver accountable for their behavior and your suffering.
- To deter future accidents - motorcyclists filing lawsuits when ran off the road or sideswiped can help deter future accidents and injury, as it sends a message to other drivers that they will be held responsible for any actions that lead to a crash.
- To recover damages for your injuries - most importantly, if you have suffered an injury in a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to recover damages for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other losses. Filing a lawsuit can help you get the compensation you need to pay for your medical bills, replace your lost income, and treat the emotional and physical effects of your injury.
If the car wasn't the only party at fault in the accident, you may still be able to recover damages for your injuries, lost wages, and other expenses. The amount of damages you can recover will depend on the severity of your injuries and the other factors involved in the accident. Contact an attorney for more detailed information.
There are a few things you can do to help avoid motorcycle accidents involving a car:
- Be aware of your surroundings and ride your motorcycle defensively - avoid being surprised by a car in your periphery.
- Wear bright clothing and a helmet to be more easily seen by an approaching car.
- Obey the same speed limit and traffic laws as a car.
- Use hand signals to communicate with car drivers.
- Avoid riding your motorcycle in poor weather conditions.
- If possible, travel with a group of other motorcyclists. Even one extra rider can help cars to see you better than if you traveled alone.
Choosing The Best Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
If you've been injured in a motorcycle accident, it's important to hire an experienced accident lawyer. An experienced attorney will be able to help you understand your legal rights and options. Your attorney will also be able to negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf and advocate for your rights in court.
Why Do I Need a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer?
The aftermath of an accident is challenging enough without filing paperwork, negotiating with insurance companies, and trying to navigate the legal system solo, with little to no prior experience. Contacting an attorney immediately after your motorcycle accident can ensure that greedy insurance companies don't take advantage of your vulnerable situation by reducing or denying your claim - or offering a lowball settlement. Your accident attorney will protect your rights by identifying all potentially liable parties, gathering evidence, developing an airtight legal strategy, and representing you in negotiations - or in court.
Benefits of Hiring an Attorney After an Accident
Expertise in Motorcycle Law - your attorney will have a deep understanding of motorcycle accident law, including the specific state and federal regulations that apply to these types of accidents. This knowledge makes your attorney incredibly valuable when negotiating a settlement or advocating for justice in the courtroom.
Negotiation Experience - insurance companies often try to minimize the amount they pay out to motorcycle accident victims. Your experienced attorney will understand how to negotiate effectively with these companies to ensure you receive fair compensation for your injuries.
Access to Resources - your attorney has access to a large network of resources, including expert witnesses, accident reconstruction experts, and medical professionals. These resources can ensure you receive the maximum compensation possible.
Courtroom Representation - if your case goes to trial, your attorney will represent you in court. Their legal skills may significantly change your chances of a successful outcome.
Investigative Skills - your attorney has the legal prowess and extensive resources to thoroughly investigate your accident, identify all potentially liable parties, and gather evidence
Damages Calculation - determining the full extent of your damages can be confusing and time-consuming, especially when future medical costs and lost earning capacity are considered. Our lawyers know how to quickly and accurately calculate these damages.
Peace of Mind - the relief of having an experienced motorcycle accident attorney on your side is often underrated. Your attorney will fight for your rights, fill out your paperwork on time, and ensure you receive the maximum compensation possible - all while you focus on your recovery.
Contact Wettermark Keith Today For a No Cost, No Obligation Consultation
At Wettermark Keith law firm, our top priority is serving motorcycle accident survivors with compassion and dedication. Having represented thousands of injured bikers, we understand that each motorcycle accident is unique - and we'll fight tirelessly to get you the compensation you deserve.
Our motorcycle accident lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay us no fees unless we win your case. We strongly believe that you aren’t just another case file on our desk - you are a person who deserves recovery and healing, and we will fight to ensure you receive it. Our lawyers offer a free consultation where you can discuss your case in detail. If you or a loved one has suffered a personal injury in a motorcycle accident, don’t wait – contact our dedicated legal team today through our firm website or by calling (877) 715-9300.
Wettermark Keith, with offices located throughout Alabama, Tennessee, and Florida, has an excellent reputation as one of the most accomplished personal injury firms in the country. Our reach is not only regional but includes a diverse range of practice areas, including personal injury cases, auto wrecks, trucking wrecks, medical malpractice, on-the-job injuries, social security disability, and veterans’ disability claims. At Wettermark Keith, we believe in taking cases personally. The purpose of our law firm is to practice with care and compassion - to tell our client’s stories and make their voices heard.
Wettermark Keith was extremely professional and helpful. This personal injury law firm helped my husband over 10 years ago when he fell and broke his foot on vacation. I called them first because I liked their TV commercials. They are very nice people and I would call them again if I needed a lawyer.
- Juanita
Law firm Wettermark Keith has exceeded my expectations! I recommend these lawyers to anyone and everyone I come across. Their commitment to their clients is outstanding. Communication is easy. And I got my settlement very fast. I definitely recommend working with Lee Hawker. He is very gracious and kind. He looked out for me and my family and went above and beyond for us. I’m very grateful!
- Alexa
My personal embattlement with the Social Security Administration went downhill. From a personal recommendation, I reached out to Wettermark Keith law firm. Brian Smith and his team took my case and throughout the whole process, I felt more than just another number. Frequent updates were provided, and emphasis was placed on ensuring all needed documentation was in place. In the end, the accident case resulted in a favorable victory. A big thank you to my lawyer Brian Smith and the team at Wettermark Keith for the hard work throughout the entire personal injury process.
- Dallas
I had the pleasure of working with Mr. Mark English at Wettermark Keith law firm after my car accident in December 2021. He was very thorough in everything, did a wonderful job of explaining everything that was happening, and was super easy to get in touch with when I needed him. I never had a question that was left unanswered by this lawyer. He's very kind and patient, and he made the personal injury claims process so easy for me. I absolutely recommend him, it was a pleasure working with him!
- Rose
I am so elated that I utilized Mr. Muhammad Abdullah’s services. In the beginning, he told me the compensation that I would receive for my personal injury claim and I actually received more than that! After my car wreck (in my brand-new vehicle), I was actually surprised that I was in the pain that I was in. Mr. Abdullah made sure I saw the necessary people for therapy and worked hard to get me back into my car after the accident. I felt that he was diligent, listened to my concerns, and quickly got me back in my car and compensated! I will be utilizing Mr. Abdullah again and again, anytime I ever have to hire a lawyer.
- Madinah
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