While you may love the thrill of riding your motorcycle, the sport is not risk-free. Especially considering the fact that many ways in which motor vehicle drivers disregard motorcyclists on highways and side streets. When a motorcycle accident occurs, the rider is susceptible to serious injuries.
According to the Oregon Department of Transportation, of the 930 motorcycle accidents that occurred in 2019, 789 involved injuries. If you find yourself becoming one of those statistics, you have rights if someone else caused the accident.
What should I do if I’m involved in an accident?
Your safety and well-being should always come first. If you have sustained injuries, request medical help immediately.
As you wait for help to arrive, if possible, the next step should involve gathering evidence. This includes taking pictures of the scene and damage, identifying witnesses and documenting how the accident happened.
What claim options do I have?
To receive any restitution, you must prove that another person holds liability for your injuries. This may include the driver of another vehicle, a business that was negligent or the motorcycle manufacturer if due to mechanical failure.
Driver negligence causes most accidents. In those situations, you must provide evidence that the driver did not exercise reasonable care. Examples may include speeding, texting while driving, going through a red light or improperly switching lanes.
How long do I have to file a claim?
In Oregon, you have two years to file a lawsuit or claim. To maximize your chances of a successful claim, you should file as soon as possible.
Even though you may have hesitation to file a claim, sustaining injuries in a motorcycle accident may have long-term effects, physically, mentally and financially.