Copyright © 2023 Gelb & Gelb, P.C. All rights reserved.
Motorcycles are a common sight throughout the District of Columbia. Despite the freedom motorcycles offer to their riders, these vehicles also carry substantial risks. When a motorcycle is struck by a larger vehicle like a car or a truck, the rider can potentially suffer severe injuries.
Following a motorcycle accident, it could be in your best interest to speak directly with a skilled personal injury attorney at Gelb & Gelb, P.C. Motorcycle accidents can potentially result in significant monetary compensation, which can cover the losses you suffered in the crash. A Washington DC motorcycle accident lawyer can evaluate your claim and advise you of the best way to proceed. Let Roger Gelb help you fight your case and get you the compensation you need.
Motorcycle accidents commonly result in more severe injuries compared to other accidents. This is due in part to the lack of protection motorcycles off to their riders. Unlike cars or trucks, motorcycles lack any form of impaction cushioning. When a rider collides into a vehicle or fixed object, they often sustain the brunt of the impact.
Injuries in these accidents typically occur in two ways. The first involves a direct impact from another vehicle. When a car or a truck collides with a motorcycle, the direct impact to the rider can cause devastating injuries. The second way injuries occur in a motorcycle accident involving a rider that is thrown from their bike. Not only does the rider risk injury from the impact with the ground, but they could also fall into the path of oncoming traffic as well. Some of the most common injuries resulting from a motorcycle accident include:
Motorcyclists involved in a collision should seek medical care immediately. Not only can a delay in seeking treatment result in serious health consequences, but it can also put a rider’s personal injury claim at risk. After seeking treatment, anyone involved in a motorcycle accident should seek the guidance of an experienced attorney.
Washington DC, like all 50 states, sets a deadline to file a personal injury lawsuit after a motorcycle accident. This deadline–known as the statute of limitations–expires after a set amount of time following the date the accident occurs. According to D.C. Code 12-301(8), a plaintiff injured in a motorcycle accident has three years from the date of the motorcycle crash to file suit.
The failure to comply with this statute can have steep consequences. With rare exceptions, the courts typically dismiss injury claims after the deadline expires. Many injury victims believe their insurance claim will settle long before the statute of limitations expires. However, the claims process can be long and drawn out.
Given the risks involved with delaying an injury claim, it is vital to seek legal counsel immediately after a motorcycle crash. Not only could an attorney assist with managing the statute of limitations, but they could also assist in the insurance claims process as well.
If the negligence of another motorist resulted in your motorcycle accident, you could have a claim for damages. Depending on the severity of your injuries, you might be entitled to substantial compensation.
A Washington DC motorcycle accident lawyer can advise you of the strength of your case and prepare you for the litigation process. Call Gelb & Gelb, P.C. immediately to schedule an initial consultation.
Copyright © 2023 Gelb & Gelb, P.C. All rights reserved.