Riding a motorcycle can provide an affordable and practical means of transportation as well as an exciting recreational activity. Virginia not only has a rich history but also a lush and scenic landscape worth exploring.
Along with the freedom that you get riding a motorcycle come some inherent risks. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) reports that motorcycle fatalities occur 27 times more frequently than those of other vehicle crashes. In Virginia alone, all motor vehicle crash statistics improved in 2017, except for motorcycle crashes – which were up 10.4% from the prior year.
While many motorcycle riders are adept and conscientious, they still face a serious risk of injury or death on the road. If you have been injured in a motorcycle crash or lost a loved one, you may benefit from the services of an experienced Virginia motorcycle accident lawyer. At Schilling & Esposito, our accomplished Virginia personal injury attorneys understand the difficulties and pain you may be facing after one of these tragic events.
Motorcycle riders commonly receive a bad rap as being careless and reckless on the road. The statistics tell another story. Of the over 2,100 motorcycle crashes in Virginia last year, alcohol use by the rider was a factor in just 6.5% or 142 cases. In a majority of the crashes, the motorcycle was either maneuvering to avoid another vehicle or was listed as taking “no improper action.”
The unfortunate fact is that most motorcycle crashes are avoidable and many are the fault of another vehicle. The most common causes of motorcycle accidents include:
Unlike passenger vehicles, there aren’t many safety features built into a motorcycle to keep the rider safe. A motorcyclist doesn’t have the benefit of a seatbelt, airbag, or the steel shell of their vehicle. It’s not uncommon for a rider to be thrown from their vehicle or even end up pinned beneath their motorcycle.
While Virginia law requires that both riders and passengers wear approved helmets, these provide only a minimum amount of protection. Motorcycle crashes can result in injuries so severe that they are life-altering. Some of the most common types of motorcycle accident injuries include:
When you’ve been hurt through no fault of your own, you are faced with some difficult challenges. You may need immediate medical attention and have to deal with other emotional and financial obstacles. Depending on the circumstances of your accident, you may have the right to make a claim for compensation for the following types of damages:
While every vehicle accident is unique, most leave their victims with physical, emotional, and financial consequences that can be difficult to overcome without help. If the crash was someone else’s fault, you and your loved ones should not have to shoulder these burdens. You have the right to make a claim for full and fair damages.
At Schilling & Esposito, our aggressive Virginia personal injury attorneys have extensive experience with Virginia motorcycle accident cases. Our in-house investigators and qualified attorneys will use their skills to build your case and fight for the compensation you deserve as you concentrate on rebuilding your life.
Virginia laws pose certain time limits for filing a personal injury case, known as a statute of limitations. This can vary depending on your circumstances, which is why we urge you to contact us as soon as possible to protect your legal rights.
Contact our Richmond office now at 804-261-1001 or reach us online to schedule a free consultation.