Best Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Columbia

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Columbia, South Carolina?

  (803) 252-2911 is the non-emergency hotline in Columbia.

• Where can you get a copy of the police report for the accident in Columbia, South Carolina?

  Columbia police department's records unit provides traffic-related accident reports. Involved parties can also request a digital copy by filling out forms at the citizen's online police reporting system here: https://columbiapd.net/submit-a-police-report/.

• Can someone under the age of 21 file a motorcycle claim in Columbia if they did not wear a helmet during the accident?

  Yes, it is possible to file a claim in Columbia even if they weren't wearing a helmet during the crash, as long as the accident was due to someone else’s negligence. Even though the law in South Carolina requires riders under 21 to wear helmets, wearing this protective gear does not affect the negligent party's actions. Although insurance companies may argue against not wearing a helmet, this does not reduce the value of the claim.

• Where do most motorcycle accidents take place in Columbia?

  Interstate 20, route 1, South Carolina Highway 6, and Route 378 are some of the most accident-prone roads in Columbia. There is also Route 121, which is the major state highway that travels south and north in central parts of South Carolina; Interstate 77, which crosses different rivers like the Catawba River; and Route 176, which passes counties and rural areas.

• Can motorcycle accident victims file a claim against an uninsured liable driver in Columbia?

  Yes, in Columbia, they can still file an uninsured motorist (UM) claim. In South Carolina, UM insurance protects policyholders from hit-and-run drivers and negligent parties who are uninsured. For drivers to be able to operate a vehicle legally, the state mandates that they purchase a UM policy and carry insurance coverage equal to the required minimum liability limit.

• How much compensation can be obtained for punitive damages in Columbia motorcycle accidents?

  Columbia observes South Carolina laws, which limit the number of compensatory damages to $500,000. However, this does not apply when a defendant did the following: ● Entered a guilty plea. ● Acted under the influence of alcohol or drugs, making their judgment substantially impaired. ● Had the intent to harm and actually did hurt the victim.

• What is Columbia's permissible blood alcohol level when riding a motorcycle?

  In Columbia and the rest of South Carolina, bikers under 21 will face a driving under the influence (DUI) charge if any alcohol is found in their system. On the other hand, drivers aged 21 and above with a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.08% or higher will be issued a DUI ticket. However, for those with BAC below the legal limit may still be charged with DUI if the evidence shows that drinking alcohol has materially impaired their ability to drive.

• What does a motorcycle accident attorney do?

  Motorcycle accident attorneys provide legal advice, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent accident victims in and out of court. They investigate the cause of collisions, establish fault, value claims, prepare legal documents, and fight to recover adequate compensation for their clients. Most lawyers in this practice area also handle car and truck accidents and other personal injury claims.

• What is my motorcycle accident injury claim worth?

  Injured motorcyclists may be eligible for several types of compensation depending on their losses, state of residence, and level of fault. Whether or not they were wearing a helmet may also come into play. A lawyer can help to evaluate claims based on medical expenses, property damage, past and future lost wages, loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, and emotional trauma.

• How long after a motorcycle accident can you claim an injury?

  The statute of limitations for personal injury claims is typically two years from the date of the accident. However, each state has its own rules. In Tennessee and Louisiana, for example, victims of motorcycle accidents have just one year to file a lawsuit. In Maine, Minnesota, and North Dakota, individuals have up to six years to initiate a claim.

• What is the average settlement for a motorcycle accident injury?

  Based on eight years of national data, the average verdict in motorcycle accident cases ranges from $74,000 to $560,000. Also note that the majority of claims are settled out of court. Riders may receive compensatory damages for medical bills, property damage, and lost wages, as well as general damages for emotional trauma, pain and suffering, and loss of consortium. Additionally, in states that follow a comparative negligence model, the plaintiff’s claim may be reduced according to his or her level of fault.

• What is the first thing I should do after a motorcycle accident?

  The steps that you take immediately after a collision can be instrumental in proving an accident or injury claim. In general, you should follow these guidelines:

  • Gather insurance and contact information from the other driver and any witnesses.
  • Contact law enforcement to report the collision and complete an accident report.
  • Document injuries, property damage, and road conditions.
  • Visit a doctor or hospital within 24 hours.
  • Avoid discussing the accident with the other driver or their insurance company.

  
  

• How does the motorcycle injury claim process work?

  Motorcycle accident cases typically start with an insurance claim. After documenting their client’s losses and establishing fault, attorneys generally prepare a demand letter requesting compensation from the other driver’s insurance company. It can take anywhere from one to six months for insurance adjusters to make a settlement offer. If the company denies the claim or the parties can’t reach an agreement, the lawyer can prepare a notice of intent to sue and file a formal lawsuit with the appropriate court.

• How do many motorcycle crashes happen?

  The most common causes for motorcycle collisions are drunk driving, exceeding the speed limit, and left turns. In 42% of all motorcycle collision fatalities, another vehicle turned left in front of an oncoming motorcycle. Motorcycle accidents are also caused by dangerous road conditions, such as crumbling pavement, debris in the road, and potholes. Other factors that contribute to motorcycle accidents include unsafe lane changes, sudden stops, lane splitting, inexperienced drivers, motorcycle defects, and car doors opened in the path of a motorcycle.

• How many motorcyclists get into accidents?

  In 2017, of the over 8 million motorcycle riders that year, approximately 89,000 were injured in motorcycle accidents and over 5,000 motorcycle collisions resulted in fatalities. The fatality rate for 100 million miles driven is 25.67, which is largely attributed to the lack of helmet use. Most fatal crashes involving motorcycles happened during the heaviest traffic times between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m.

• Are motorcycles more dangerous than cars?

  Motorcycles are more dangerous than cars because they lack any protection for the rider in the event of an accident. Motorcyclists are 27 times more likely to die in a crash and more than five times more likely to be injured than those riding in enclosed vehicles. Because of their small size, motorcycles’ lack of visibility is a major contributing factor in collisions with other vehicles. Motorcycles are also more vulnerable to weather conditions and road hazards than other automobiles.

• How do you check a motorcycle after a crash?

  For a minor crash with no injuries, the immediate danger is being struck again by oncoming traffic, so moving your bike off of the road as soon as possible is imperative. Check your mirrors, brake lights, headlight, and controls. You should also check to make sure there is no leaking fluid, such as fuel or oil.