Gulfport Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

If you or a family member has been hurt in a motorcycle accident, you have the right to seek compensation to help you pay for your medical bills and other expenses. Working with a skilled Gulfport motorcycle accident lawyer can help you get the money you deserve, negotiate with the insurance company, and protect your legal rights.

What Are the Most Common Motorcycle Accidents in Gulfport, MS?

The most common causes of motorcycle accidents in Gulfport, MS include driving too fast, drowsy or distracted driving, and driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Lane sharing or splitting, which involves riding between lanes of traffic, can also cause a motorcycle accident.

There are also environmental factors that cause crashes, including poor weather conditions, like rain or fog, which can reduce visibility and make the roads slippery. Additionally, hazardous road conditions, such as potholes, litter, and obstacles caused by construction, can also cause accidents. Sometimes, the motorcycle or other passenger vehicles may have defects that can result in accidents.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), most motorcycle accidents with other vehicles are not the motorcyclist’s fault. For example, a car or truck merging into the path of an oncoming motorcycle can cause an accident. Negligent driving behaviors, such as following too closely or making unsafe lane changes, can also lead to accidents.

What Types of Injuries Are Caused By a Motorcycle Accident?

Motorcycle crashes are often violent events that result in catastrophic injury or death to the motorcyclist. The impact of the collision can be devastating, throwing the rider off the bike and onto the pavement or other hard surfaces.

Other common injuries from a motorcycle accident are:

  • Broken bones
  • Road rash or abrasions
  • Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
  • Burns
  • Amputations
  • Internal bleeding or injuries
  • Psychological trauma

What is the Cause of Death in Most Motorcycle Accidents?

Gulfport motorcycle accident attorneyHead injuries have been identified as the leading cause of death in many motorcycle accidents, mainly because motorcyclists are often not protected by any external structure that can absorb the impact of a collision, unlike cars. The force of the impact can cause catastrophic injuries.

Mississippi law requires all motorcyclists to wear helmets that the Department of Public Safety approves. NHTSA studies consistently show that helmets save motorcycle riders’ lives. One study in 2021 found in states that do not require motorcyclists to wear helmets, accidents were fatal 55 percent of the time.

Who Can Be Held Responsible For My Motorcycle Crash?

Many factors typically contribute to motorcycle crashes. As a result, several different parties may be held responsible.

  • Other drivers on the road: Drivers who cause a crash due to behaviors like speeding, operating a vehicle while impaired, or not yielding the right of way.
  • Manufacturers: Companies that build the motorcycle or create parts for it can be responsible if a defect in the motorcycle or another vehicle involved in the accident plays a role in causing the collision.
  • Property owners, including homeowners, governments, or municipalities: Owners may be responsible if an accident occurs due to dangerous conditions, lack of proper signs, or poor property maintenance managed by private or government entities.

What If I Am Partially at Fault for My Motorcycle Accident?

Motorcycle accident attorneys in Gulfport, MississippiIf you were involved in an accident, you might still be able to get compensation for your injuries, even if you were partially liable. Mississippi law uses a “pure comparative negligence” rule. This means you can still recover damages, even if you were mostly at fault for the accident.

It works because a percentage of fault is assigned to each person involved in the accident. The damages are calculated based on that percentage. So, if you were found to be 50% at fault for the accident, and the other party was 50% at fault, you could still recover 50% of the damages.

This system is designed to ensure that everyone involved in an accident is treated fairly and that fair compensation is awarded based on each person’s responsibility for the accident.

How Long Do I Have to File a Personal Injury Lawsuit in Gulfport, MS?

The statute of limitations in Mississippi allows you up to three years to file a lawsuit against the responsible party. Three years might sound like a lot of time, but acting quickly is important to increase your chances of winning the case. As time passes, evidence at the accident scene can disappear, memories can fade, and witnesses may forget important details. That’s why you should talk to a personal injury lawyer and pursue legal action as soon as possible after a motorcycle accident. A good lawyer can help you navigate the legal system, give you advice, and help you build a strong case, improving your chances of getting the maximum compensation you deserve.

Compensation for your motorcycle accident claim can be in the form of economic damages, tangible losses such as medical expenses or lost wages, and noneconomic damages, intangible losses such as pain and suffering or emotional distress. The purpose of compensation is to help the injured party recover from their losses and return to their pre-incident state as much as possible.

Contact an Experienced Gulfport Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today

If you’ve been in a Gulfport motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to compensation for your injuries, lost wages, and medical bills. However, pursuing legal action on your own can be overwhelming and complex. That’s where an experienced Mississippi motorcycle accident attorney comes in. At Giddens Law Firm, we have experienced motorcycle accident attorneys, who can guide you through the legal process, conduct a thorough investigation, and will work tirelessly to help you get the fair compensation you deserve.

Don’t hesitate to contact us today to schedule a free initial consultation and learn about your options. We’re here to help.

Schedule a Free Consultation

Sidebar Contact Form

Related Practice Areas