Whether it is a motorcycle accident or a car accident, getting involved in any type of auto accident can be a scary experience. Such an incident can come with its fair share of damages, as well, even if the resulting damages differ between a motorcyclist and a standard motor vehicle driver. Continue reading to learn the difference between a motorcycle and a car accident claim and how an experienced Washington, D.C. motorcycle accident lawyer at Simeone & Miller, LLP can guide you through either scenario.
What is the difference between motorcycle and car accident damages?
It can be assumed that a motorcyclist is left with far more serious injuries than a standard motor vehicle driver after an accident. This is because they are left with little to no protection, other than their helmet or possibly padded clothing. But in any event, any type of auto accident may lead to serious or even fatal damages. The common damages resulting from either a motorcycle accident or a car accident are as follows:
- Motorcycle accident damages:
- Severe skin abrasions.
- Severe skin infections.
- Broken, fractured, or dislocated bones.
- Car accident damages:
- Concussions or more severe traumatic brain injuries.
- Whiplash or more severe neck injuries.
- Spinal cord injuries or possibly paralysis.
What is the difference between a motorcycle and a car accident claim?
A motorcycle accident claim and a car accident claim should normally follow the same investigations and legal proceedings. But it may be more difficult to prove the negligence of another party if you are a motorcyclist. This is because, unfortunately, there is a certain stereotype placed against motorcyclists, which is that they are reckless and prone to getting themselves into dangerous situations. This makes it all the more difficult for a motorcyclist to have a successful insurance claim and personal injury claim.
So, a motorcyclist may have to make an extra effort toward collecting evidence. That is, a standard motor vehicle driver may be able to get away with just a police report, witness testimony, medical documents, etc. But a motorcyclist may have to produce expert testimonies, accident reconstruction, and an accident scene analysis. Overall, a golden rule is that the more facts and hard evidence you have at your disposal, the easier it is to prove that your accident was due to no fault of your own.
Though, a similarity between a motorcycle and a car accident claim is the statute of limitations. That is, the deadline to bring your claim forward is set at three years. Otherwise, you may just miss out on a monetary award that you rightfully deserve.
And so, regardless of what your specific circumstances may be, you must not second-guess your instinct to retain the services of a skilled Washington, D.C. auto accident lawyer from Simeone & Miller LLP. Schedule your free initial consultation with our firm today.