Motorcycle accidents may not make up a large percentage of the total traffic crashes in Virginia, but the data reveals that these crashes still cause devastating losses. The Virginia Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) reports that there are around 1,900 motorcycle collisions every year, at just 1.6 percent of all incidents. However, these incidents are responsible for almost 11 percent of all fatalities, and hundreds of other victims are injured in motorcycle accidents.
If you were hurt or someone close to you died in a motorcycle crash, keep in mind that Virginia law provides legal remedies. A Winchester motorcycle accidents lawyer can explain your options and assist with recovering compensation for your losses, including medical costs, pain and suffering, and others. Plus, some additional statistics about motorcycle crashes and the risks are eye-opening.
Additional Data from the Virginia DMV
The disproportionate nature of these collisions is shocking when you consider the overall picture. Of the 1,900 motorcycle crashes that take place in the state every year, 85 percent cause a fatality or injuries to at least one victim. Plus:
- More than 1,500 motorcycle riders and passengers suffer injuries in collisions, 680 of which sustain severe, catastrophic injuries.
- 92 percent of all motorcycle accidents occur on municipal, county, and other non-interstate roads.
- For both fatalities and injured victims, the age group with the most casualties in motorcycle crashes is 21 to 35 years old.
- Helmet use by motorcycle operators was at almost 71 percent nationwide, a 23 percent increase from 2002.
- Helmets reduce the risk of death in a motorcycle crash by 37 percent and lower the threat of injuries by 69 percent.
Challenges with Virginia Motorcycle Crash Claims
Motorists are required to carry auto insurance to cover losses in a traffic collision, so the first step in the legal process is filing a claim. You will need to complete numerous forms and attach documentation proving your right to compensation. Retaining a Winchester motorcycle accident lawyer is essential for addressing such challenges as:
- The insurer will deny your claim if you do not include solid evidence that the other motorist, its policyholder, was at fault.
- The company might try to shift blame on you for causing the motorcycle collision, which can defeat your claim entirely: Virginia follows the law of contributory negligence, which prohibits a victim from recovering compensation if he or she was also at fault.
- The insurance company will require evidence of your losses, and medical records are a key component. However, it is often necessary to retain medical experts to establish how your injuries affect pain and suffering and quality of life.
Set up a Consultation with a Winchester Motorcycle Accident Attorney
A summary of how to recover from a motorcycle crash compensation is useful, but there are many additional tasks that can be complicated when you are recovering from your injuries. The Correll Law Firm will take on the legal process, so you can feel confident your claim is in good hands. Please call 540-535-2005 or click here to schedule a no-cost case evaluation today.