Motorcycle accidents are often devastating. Unlike drivers in passenger vehicles, motorcyclists have little protection when a crash occurs, leaving them vulnerable to severe injuries and long-term consequences.
If you were injured in a motorcycle crash caused by someone else’s negligence, a Raleigh motorcycle accident lawyer can help you pursue compensation and protect your rights.
Motorcycle accident claims in Raleigh require a thorough understanding of North Carolina law, insurance practices, and the unique challenges motorcyclists face. At Shane Smith Law, our Raleigh personal injury lawyer understands these challenges and is prepared to secure justice for you.
What a Raleigh Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Does for You
A motorcycle accident lawyer provides comprehensive legal support from the beginning of the case through resolution, whether that be a settlement or trial. At Shane Smith Law, we are here with you every step of the way.
This includes investigating the accident, preserving evidence, working with medical professionals, calculating damages, and handling negotiations or litigation. Equally important, our attorneys provide guidance and peace of mind during this difficult time.
As your local attorney, we understand the specifics of North Carolina law and are familiar with local courts and jurisdictions. This provides us with the unique ability to fully understand the details of the accident and strengthen your case accordingly.
For a free legal consultation with a motorcycle accident lawyer serving Raleigh, call (980) 246-2656
Motorcycle Accidents Often Cause Catastrophic Injuries
Motorcycle crashes frequently result in far more serious injuries than typical car accidents. Even at low speeds, motorcyclists are at much higher risk than those in a standard vehicle. The lack of safety features and the likelihood of being thrown from your bike can turn even a minor accident into a life-altering event.
Common motorcycle accident injuries include traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, broken bones, severe road rash, internal organ damage, and permanent scarring.
Many riders require emergency surgery, extended hospitalization, and months or years of rehabilitation. In the most serious cases, motorcycle accidents lead to permanent disability or wrongful death.
If you have lost a loved one in a motorcycle accident, a Raleigh motorcycle accident attorney can help you understand what evidence you need in a wrongful death case and how to obtain that evidence most effectively.
Raleigh Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Near Me (980) 246-2656
Negligence Is the Leading Cause of Motorcycle Accidents
According to the National Motorcycle Safety Resource Guide, motorcyclists were 22 times more likely to be involved in a fatal accident than car occupants and four times more likely to be injured. Common causes include drivers failing to yield, unsafe lane changes, distracted driving, speeding, drunk driving, and drivers who simply fail to see motorcycles in traffic.
Left-turn accidents are especially common, where a vehicle turns in front of an oncoming motorcyclist. Because motorcycles are smaller and less visible, drivers often misjudge speed or distance, with catastrophic results.
Under common law and N.C.G.S. § 1-139, North Carolina follows a pure contributory negligence rule. This means that if the victim is found to be even 1% at fault, they may be barred from collecting any damages. This is why proving negligence in these cases is essential.
Click to contact our Personal Injury Lawyers in Raleigh today
Compensation Available in a Raleigh Motorcycle Accident Claim
In addition to physical injuries, a motorcycle crash can leave you feeling stressed financially. There are many items that you can recover compensation for in a motorcycle accident claim, depending on your circumstances. These items can include, but are not limited to:
- Immediate medical expenses
- Surgeries and other medical procedures
- Long-term medical therapies, such as physical or occupational therapy
- Lost wages from time spent recovering or attending medical appointments
- Loss of earning potential if injuries are long-term and affect your future livelihood
- Property damage to your motorcycle or other gear, such as helmets, padding, and personal items
- Pain and suffering damages
- Emotional distress
Depending on the severity of injuries and property damage, amounts may vary, but working with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney in Raleigh can help you understand what compensation you should expect from a motorcycle accident.
Complete a Free Case Evaluation form now
Insurance Companies May Attempt to Fight Your Motorcycle Accident Claim
Insurance companies often treat motorcycle accident claims differently from car accident claims. Many riders have experienced bias when filing a claim. Even if the motorcyclist is not liable, adjusters may use stereotypes to discredit these claims in hopes of eliminating or at least reducing payment.
Common insurance tactics include disputing liability, downplaying injuries, delaying claims, and pushing quick settlements before the full extent of injuries is known. Once a settlement is accepted, injured riders typically lose the right to pursue additional compensation, even if complications arise later.
A motorcycle accident lawyer in Raleigh can handle all communication with insurers to help protect clients from unfair tactics and negotiate aggressively for a fair outcome. If a reasonable settlement cannot be reached, the attorney can pursue the case in court.
Time Limits for Filing a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit in Raleigh
North Carolina law imposes a strict statute of limitations on motorcycle accident claims. Under N.C.G.S. § 1-52, in most cases, injured riders have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. After this, they may forfeit their rights to pursue the case.
There may be exceptions, such as with wrongful death claims that are generally subject to a two-year deadline, or if a minor is injured, in which the clock does not begin until the minor becomes of age. Exceptions exist, but they are few and far between.
Missing these deadlines can permanently bar recovery, regardless of how strong the case may be. Early legal consultation helps ensure that evidence is preserved and all filing requirements are met. While this situation may be stressful, having a qualified attorney on your team can help it run more smoothly.
Speak With a Raleigh Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident, you do not have to face the legal process alone. The physical, emotional, and financial toll of a motorcycle crash can be overwhelming, especially when insurers attempt to deny responsibility.
With Shane Smith Law, you can feel confident knowing you have a dedicated advocate in your corner.
Call or text (980) 246-2656 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
