Oklahoma has some of the nation’s most scenic and beautiful roads, making it a biker’s paradise—no wonder so many people are flocking to the lifestyle. However, the increase in riders has led to an increase in wrecks. Other drivers still do not know how to share the road. Plus, new riders may not learn the tips and tricks that keep drivers safe.
A motorcycle crash differs from a regular car crash because injuries are much more likely. Unlike a passenger vehicle, motorcycles lack the protective features such as airbags and reinforced frames, leaving riders far more vulnerable in a collision. A biker is lucky to walk away from any motorcycle accident. Still, even those who walk away may have severe, lifelong injuries. Plus, unlike other vehicles, a significant collision will likely total a motorcycle.
While most motorcycle wrecks are because of the drivers in other vehicles, bikers face stereotypes about their behavior. Driver negligence is a leading cause of motorcycle accidents in Oklahoma, and a negligent driver in a passenger vehicle can cause catastrophic harm to motorcyclists. Many people subconsciously assume that bikers must be risk-takers and may discount their version of events.
A Lawton motorcycle accident lawyer at our law firm, experienced injury lawyers with a strong track record in handling Oklahoma motorcycle accident cases, could help you present the facts of the case and demonstrate who was really at fault in the accident. Enlist the help of one of our dedicated and skilled injury attorneys today. Our Oklahoma City office and Oklahoma City injury lawyers are available to help you pursue compensation after a motorcycle accident. Our motorcycle accident attorneys have extensive experience with motorcycle accidents in Oklahoma and are committed to holding negligent drivers accountable.
Drivers of enclosed vehicles cause the majority of motorcycle accidents. They are not used to looking out for motorcycles and are not careful around them. Distracted driving, as reported by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, is a leading cause of motorcycle crashes and contributes significantly to accident rates and fatalities. Plus, many drivers are unfamiliar with the traffic laws and regulations that may apply to bikers and other motorists. They may not even be driving at the time of the accident—opening car doors into a rider’s path causes many accidents.
Single-vehicle wrecks are not uncommon, either. Poorly maintained roads can contribute to the risk of a collision. So can defective safety gear or motorcycle parts. In those instances, liability may extend beyond the drivers involved, and a third party such as a manufacturer could be responsible for a motorcyclist’s injuries.
However, bad weather is an issue of driver discretion. Motorcyclists should avoid riding when it is foggy, raining, or icy whenever possible.
A diligent motorcycle accident attorney in Lawton could investigate the cause of a specific crash. By reviewing the available evidence—witness statements, photos of the accident scene, video evidence, and the police report documenting how the crash occurred—they could establish who was at fault. They can advise an injured biker on their next steps using that information. Proving negligence is a key part of this process, as the attorney must demonstrate that another party’s actions directly caused the accident and injuries. Insurance companies often use common methods to deny claims or minimize payouts, so having experienced legal representation is crucial to counter these tactics and protect your right to compensation.
In a car, a steel cage surrounds the driver and passengers. Seat belts hold them in place. Airbags inflate to cushion them from injuries in an accident. In contrast, the only things protecting motorcyclists are helmets, safety goggles, and protective gear. Most accidents result in bikers sliding along the road. Just a few examples of common motorcycle accident injuries include road rash, broken bones, and even head injuries. More severe motorcycle accident injuries include:
These types of injuries can have devastating consequences, often requiring extensive medical treatment and long-term care.
Wearing the right protective gear can help motorcyclists avoid injuries. Oklahoma is not a mandatory helmet state, but helmets greatly enhance motorcycle riders’ chances of survival and diminish their risk of serious injuries. Bikers should also avoid lane splitting, which is not only illegal in Oklahoma but also extremely dangerous.
Because of the risk of catastrophic harm, all injury victims should seek medical attention after a wreck. Some common motorcycle accident injuries—especially brain, internal, or spinal cord injuries—may not be immediately apparent but will worsen over time. Documenting an injury with thorough medical records and seeking follow-up care as needed is essential for proving damages in a personal injury claim or lawsuit; it can also help prevent serious complications.
Because injuries are often severe and require extensive medical treatment, determining ongoing medical expenses and the full scope of financial compensation can be challenging. Injury victims may face significant financial recovery needs, including lost wages and long-term care. It is vital to pick an experienced motorcycle accident attorney or Oklahoma motorcycle accident lawyer familiar with personal injury claims and injury claims in the Lawton area. A personal injury lawyer will know the cost of medical care for similar injuries, help gather medical records, and could help ensure injured motorcyclists do not accept low settlement offers. They can also help recover compensation for medical expenses, pursue punitive damages in cases of gross negligence, and assist families in seeking wrongful death benefits or filing a wrongful death lawsuit if a fatality occurs.
After a motorcycle accident, dealing with insurance companies can quickly become one of the most challenging aspects of your recovery. Insurance companies are businesses first, and their primary goal is often to minimize payouts—even when motorcycle accident victims are facing mounting medical bills, lost wages, and the need for extensive medical treatment. Understanding how insurance companies operate is crucial to protecting your rights and securing the fair compensation you deserve.
The period after a motorcycle accident can be traumatic and stressful. There can also be tremendous pressure to settle a claim because of the money needed to pay for medical bills, lost wages, and more. However, it is critical to examine whether a settlement will be enough to pay for things like ongoing medical treatment or reduced earning capacity. Motorcycle accident claims can be complex, and having an experienced law firm on your side is essential to ensure your rights are protected throughout the process.
Schedule a free consultation and case review with an Oklahoma City motorcycle accident lawyer at AMA Law. Our law firm has extensive experience handling Oklahoma motorcycle accident cases and can help you recover compensation for your injuries. We understand the unique challenges of Oklahoma City motorcycle accident claims and are familiar with local laws and conditions. Our attorneys could help you evaluate your damages, identify responsible parties, negotiate with insurers, and represent you in court if you cannot get a fair settlement. Call now to get started –(405) 972-6123.