There are rules and regulations that have been put in effect to protect motorcyclists and drivers when on the road. When people fail to adhere to the rules of the road and cause tragic accidents, they should be held responsible. But it could be an overbearing task to take on insurance companies and defense attorneys on your own without the help of a skilled personal injury attorney.
If you or a loved one were severely injured while on a motorbike due to the negligent actions of another, an Ocean Springs motorcycle accident lawyer could help your case. They could review the evidence, speak to witnesses and help you prove the defendant’s negligence. You may be eligible to recover compensation for a wide range of damages such as lost wages, medical expenses, loss of enjoyment of life, as well as pain and suffering.
Before a person could legally operate a motorcycle, there are certain steps they must take. Mississippi Code §63-1-6 requires that riders may not operate their motorbike unless they have obtained an operator’s license, which includes a motorcycle endorsement.
Motorcycles are required to have at least one to two headlights and to be equipped with a brake that could be operated by foot or by hand. Mississippi Code §63-7-64 also does not allow people to ride motorcycles unless they wear a crash helmet that is in compliance with the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) guidelines.
States are divided between two main standards, fault and no-fault insurance. The dozen or so states that follow the no-fault insurance standard have more limited options for claimants. For example, no-fault claimants may not file an insurance claim against an at-fault driver or file a personal injury lawsuit without meeting an additional threshold requirement.
Fault-based states such as Mississippi allow claimants to file an insurance claim with their own insurance carrier, with an at-fault driver’s insurance company, or file a personal injury lawsuit without needing to meet additional requirements. Those injured in motorcycle crashes in Ocean Springs may seek compensation for their medical bills, out-of-pocket expenses, and lost wages related to their injuries.
If an insurance policy does not cover all of the expenses or damages, they could file a personal injury lawsuit against the defendant. Motorcycle accident lawsuits in Ocean Springs must be filed within three years of the injury under the statute of limitations, or the plaintiff loses the right to seek compensation from the responsible party.
Plaintiffs may seek economic, non-economic, property, and punitive damages from the defendant. With the help of an Ocean Springs motorcycle accident lawyer, injured claimants may be eligible to recover compensation for damages such as:
Punitive damages are harder to recover. The courts only reward punitive damages in situations whether they feel it is appropriate to punish the defendant to deter them from committing their wrongful actions again.
Following a motorcycle accident, the idea of pursuing your own legal case might seem overwhelming. An Ocean Springs motorcycle accident lawyer might be able to dedicate their time and effort to help handle your case. They could examine the facts of your case, build a case, and help you seek compensation for your damages.
Call today to discuss your legal options.