The weather and beautiful scenery make Huntsville popular for avid motorcycle riders to enjoy the open roads. In fact, the annual Trail of Tears Commemorative Motorcycle Ride across northern Alabama has become one of the largest motorcycle events in the world. While riding has its perks, bikers face more hazards than any other motorist on the road.
Although some accidents can be prevented, you are still at risk of other careless drivers while riding a bike. You might be eligible for compensation to cover your losses when you are in an accident caused by negligence. At The Blackwell Law Firm, a skilled personal injury attorney could help with this process. Call a knowledgeable Huntsville motorcycle accident lawyer for help with a claim.
The Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Motorcycle riders are at risk of suffering severe bodily harm in accidents. The most common injuries following a motorcycle crash include the following:
- Serious head and brain injuries
- Back and spinal cord injuries
- Broken legs and feet
- Chest and internal organ damage
- Severe road rash and scarring
- Face fractures and broken teeth
A hardworking attorney in Huntsville could help collect the evidence to prove the severity of a person’s injuries following a motorbike collision.
Damages for Motorcycle Crash Cases
When calculating an award amount for a motorcycle accident victim, the court will consider the plaintiff’s injuries and the defendant’s actions. Based on these factors, the court may provide compensation to cover damages, including medical expenses and the cost of ongoing care, lost salary and earning potential, permanent scarring, and pain and suffering.
The Essential Motorcycle Laws in Alabama
Motorcycle owners must know and follow traffic safety rules to travel on roads and highways in Alabama. Laws exist for licensing, safety gear, passengers, and lane sharing.
The Universal Helmet Statute and Footwear
Motorcycle protective gear—such as helmets—saves lives and prevents permanent disabilities from brain damage. Therefore, Alabama follows a universal motorcycle helmet law: every rider and passenger of all ages must wear the gear at all times.
Under the Alabama Code § 32-12-41, the helmet must comply with the statute’s requirements. Helmet manufacturers must design the helmet for motorcycle use with durable, shatterproof material resistant to penetration. Other protective helmet requirements include the following:
- A shock-absorbent cradle to support the helmet and maintain separation while fitting on someone’s head securely
- Thick and absorbent, impact-resistant padding throughout the helmet and wherever the head may contact the helmet’s outer shell
- A secure and permanent adjustable chin strap
Motorcycle operators and passengers must also wear shoes while riding the bike. Durable footwear such as leather boots is an excellent choice to protect feet while riding.
The “Class M Endorsement” Drivers License
Because inexperienced riders are the most vulnerable to accidents and severe injuries, state laws require riders to pass an exam and add a “Class M” endorsement to their driver’s license to prevent avoidable incidents. The endorsement is legally required to drive motorcycles on state roads and highways.
The Motorcycle Passenger Rule
Traffic safety laws prohibit carrying passengers on motorcycles intended for one person. That means the seat must have room for a passenger, and there must be additional foot pedals.
The Lane-Sharing Law
It is legal for two motorcycles to share one lane throughout the state. However, lane splitting—traveling between slower or stopped cars—is a dangerous and unlawful practice. A knowledgeable Huntsville lawyer could answer questions about the traffic safety rules and regulations that can prevent a motorcycle collision.
Schedule a Consultation With an Experienced Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Huntsville
While motorcycles offer riders more freedom and excitement than other types of vehicles, they also present many risks. Riders must ensure they ride cautiously and safely to prevent accidents. Unfortunately, even the most careful riders face dangers from careless drivers.
What Makes Blackwell Law Firm Unique?
Our personal injury lawyers have actually tried motorcycle accident claims to verdict in front of northern Alabama juries. We believe this experience is very valuable for our injured clients. While most personal injury cases settle, we understand how to present these claims in court. Plus, the insurance companies know we will go to court if needed. This valuable experience is something many other lawyers lack. If you are talking with an attorney about your motorcycle injury claim, ask the attorney if they have actually tried one of these cases to a jury.
You might be eligible to collect compensation from the at-fault driver when you suffer injuries at the hands of a negligent driver. Call a Huntsville motorcycle accident lawyer to schedule a free consultation with a legal team member.
