Bozeman Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Riding a motorcycle can be an enjoyable and easy way to get around. However, there are unfortunately many dangers that come with riding a motorcycle on the road. Many drivers fail to look out for motorcyclists, and because of their vulnerable position, accidents can cause devastating and potentially life-threatening injuries.
If you have suffered a motorcycle accident, you may be able to pursue legal action to recover financial compensation for the harm that someone else’s negligence caused. Insurers may fight to prevent themselves from being on the hook for costs. A qualified Bozeman motorcycle accident lawyer will make sure that the appropriate lost wages and pain and suffering are taken into account during the settlement negotiations. Don’t settle for the first offer – get a fair and just settlement by calling Beck, Amsden, & Staples for your free consultation.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Montana
There are many causes of a potential motorcycle accident. Below are common causes seen that bring legal action:
- Defective Motorcycle Parts (Mechanical Failures) – includes brake, horn, rear reflector, tire, fuel system, frame, handle bars, or headlight defects
- Reckless Driving in Bad Weather Conditions – severe thunderstorm, high wind, and dust storm which causes the roadways to be flooded, slicked, and covered with mud and scattered debris
- Drivers Under The Influence of Alcohol or Drugs
- Drivers Drowsily Driving/Driving While Sleeping
- Failing to Obey Traffic Lights
- Failing to Obey Traffic Laws – including, but not limited to, exceeding the speed limit, overtaking, wrong turning, driving without license
- Low Vision – hazardous conditions, such as driving under low lighting conditions.
- Reckless driving
Types of Motorcycle Accident Injuries
- Burn Injuries: Motorcycle crashes can result in burn injuries which can be caused by the chemicals, fire, or even heated metal parts of the motorcycle. The damage can vary according to the degree of the burn which affects the layers of the skin, muscle, and bone. The skin will only sustain little surface damage from the first-degree burn while the whole dermis will be destroyed by the second-degree burn, leaving behind lifelong scars. On the other hand, your skin may become permanently discolored by a third-degree burn.
- Fractures: Some motorcycle accidents result in damage to the bones. Because of the high magnitude of the impact, the bone can become fractured. A broken bone damages surrounding tissues which can result in the immobilization of body parts with accompanying pain.
- Amputations: Sometimes, a rider’s limbs are damaged to the point where it cannot be repaired. These broken limbs require surgical amputation. The process is usually costly and hospital recovery is expected to be long.
- Abrasions: Abrasions caused by friction are commonly known as road rash. Road rash has three degrees with injuries ranging from minor scrapes that are treatable at home to nerve-damaging abrasions that need immediate medical attention.
- Paralysis: Motorcycle accidents that involve injuries to the neck, back, or head can cause paralysis. Medical care for paralyzed patients may include surgery, physical therapy, and regular medication.
Potential Compensation for Motorcycle Accidents
In a motorcycle accident, death can be the worst-case scenario that could happen to a person. However, the non-lethal damages can still pose a great deal of hardship for the affected individual. With the help of Bozeman motorcycle accident attorneys, the victims can receive compensation for economic losses, such as medical bills, hospital expenses, medication, doctors’ consultations, and loss of income caused by not being able to work due to physical injuries. It is also possible to gain compensation for and compensation for non-economic losses, such as pain and suffering, or the loss of a companion.
Statute of Limitations
It is understood that filing a personal lawsuit will not automatically take place a week after the accident especially if the damage is substantial like losing a loved one or suffering from severe trauma. Yet, it is important to get to know the statute of limitations. In Montana, a personal injury lawsuit must be filed within three (3) years from the date of the accident, or else there will be a probable dismissal of the case and zero compensation. However, if a Montana government agency or employee is involved, the lawsuit must be filed within 20 days from the date of the accident. Meanwhile, in terms of damage claim caps, there are no limitations to economic damages for personal injury cases.
How to begin a Montana Motorcycle Accident Claim?
First, HIRE A MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT LAWYER. This probably is the most important thing in order for the case to be legally documented and filed. Professionals in this certain field are the best persons who know the process more than anyone else. So, before accepting any form of settlement from the opposing party, it’s best to consult an attorney first.
Second, after thoroughly examining every facet of the case and estimating its probable cost, your legal counsel will be presenting a demand package to the defendant’s insurance company. Our motorcycle accident lawyers at Beck, Amsden & Staples have represented numerous motorcycle injury clients over the years. Beck, Amsden & Staples attorneys will relentlessly pursue your case to get you your rightful claim.
Contact a Bozeman Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
The motorcycle accident attorneys of Beck, Amsden & Staples in Bozeman care about your well-being. We have experience in motorcycle accident claims and can help you gain compensation to cover your losses. Contact us today to set up a free consultation.