Motorcycle and car accidents are similarly treated by the legal system, but there are some key differences between these types of accidents, the injuries they can cause, and how a personal injury attorney would approach a case. Here is what you should know before you talk to a Memphis car accident lawyer.
Are Some Accidents More Dangerous Than Others?
Any accident can cause serious injuries, but one of the differences between motorcycle and car accidents is how little protection a biker actually has. They have their clothing and a helmet, and that does not really compare to the steel frame and other protections offered by a car. So motorcycle accidents are more likely to result in serious injuries that could have lasting effects.
What Injuries Are Common in Motorcycle and Car Accidents?
Motorcycle and car accidents can both cause significant injuries including:
- Broken bones
- Organ damage
- Nerve damage
- Spinal cord injury
- Concussion
Another thing that bikers have to be on the lookout for is “road rash.” This occurs when their bodies slide across the road after an accident and leads to significant skin abrasions and scarring.
What Kind of Compensation Can Victims of Motorcycle and Car Accidents Get?
In accidents like these, insurance companies will often offer a settlement. This first offer is rarely enough to make up for everything that a victim has experienced. Anyone who gets injured in motorcycle and car accidents should pursue compensation that covers all of these costs and makes up for some of the emotional anguish that the accident caused. A fair offer compensates you for:
- Medical expenses
- Any paychecks you missed out on
- Loss of enjoyment
- Pain from disability or disfigurement
- Any other pain and suffering
Does Contributory Negligence Apply in These Accidents?
Contributory negligence can apply in motorcycle and car accident cases. Most of the time, an accident is not simply one person’s fault. Multiple people “contributed” to it, and determining someone’s contribution could affect how their compensation is paid out.
As an example, someone is awarded $100,000 for their injuries in a car or motorcycle accident case. Another driver is at fault, but only 75% at fault. The driver getting a reward is 25% at fault, so they get their total compensation reduced by 25% down to $75,000.
This is why it can be a good idea to have a lawyer by your side. We can help you fight off any accusations of wrongdoing so that you can keep more of your compensation.
Schedule Your Free Consultation
Whether you were driving a car or a motorcycle, you do not need to pursue compensation on your own. The team here at Ballin, Ballin & Fishman, PC is ready to help you out, so schedule your free consultation today.
