Best Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Sioux Falls

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Sioux Falls, South Dakota?

  The non-emergency contact number of the Sioux Falls Police Department is (605) 367-7212

• Where can you get a copy of the police report for the accident in Sioux Falls, South Dakota?

  You can obtain a copy of your motorcycle accident report by visiting the Sioux City Police Department located at 601 Douglas St, Sioux City, IA 51101. Accident reports can be purchased for $10 at the department's front desk in the lobby. You can also access your accident record online at www.crashdocs.org.

• What are the primary reasons for motorcycle accidents in Sioux Falls?

  Motorcycle accidents in Sioux Falls are brought on by a variety of circumstances. Driving under the influence of alcohol is one of the most prevalent. Collisions can also be caused by speeding, making sharp left turns, and failing to check one's blind zones. Another is distracted driving, in which motorists text, eat, or mess with the radio while on the road.

• What are the most common injuries suffered in motorcycle accidents in Sioux Falls?

  Motorcyclists typically sustain more fatal and severe injuries in collisions because they are substantially less protected. The list that follows includes some of the most frequent motorcycle accident injuries that can result in high medical expenses and have a long-term impact on victims:

  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Road rash
  • Serious cuts, abrasions, and scrapes
  • Broken bones/fractures
  • Head and neck injuries
  • Feet and ankle injuries
  • Spinal cord injuries
  • Internal organ damage
  • Soft tissue damage
  • Accidental amputation

• How can a Sioux Falls attorney help you with your motorcycle accident claim?

  Getting involved in a motorcycle accident can be very traumatizing and painful. Due to this, is very important to seek help from a Sioux Falls attorney who will guide you throughout the legal process of filing a lawsuit against the liable parties. An attorney can help you identify experts to fix your motorcycle and the right medical personnel to assist you with your injuries. He or she will also defend your rights and work to get you the highest amount of compensation for your losses.

• What legal options are available to you if a loved one died in a fatal motorcycle accident in Sioux Falls?

  If a loved one died as a result of a motorcycle accident, you may file a wrongful death suit as long as you meet the requirements set forth by South Dakota law. You must therefore be a close relative of the person who passed on, in order to qualify. You need to be the deceased's legitimate heir, spouse, parent, or child. You cannot bring a lawsuit if you are not a close relative of the victim.

• What are the significant criteria that would allow for larger compensation in Sioux Falls motorcycle accidents?

  The extent of the victim's injuries is one of the factors that would permit for greater compensation. In comparison to victims of car accidents, motorcycle riders frequently sustain more severe injuries like amputation, disfigurement, and brain damage. Another is the cost of medical treatment and services. Since the injuries are fatal, these may incur expensive bills because of potentially multiple surgeries and longer periods of recovery in therapy. Other elements include loss of income, decline in one's mental and personal state, and degree of property damage.

• 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.