Brien Roche has been practicing law for over 40 years. He has tried hundreds of jury cases to conclusion. He formerly rode a motorcycle in his younger days. He has authored three legal texts that are well recognized. One of those texts is entitled Virginia Torts Case Finder published by Lexis Nexis. The other book that he authored is entitled Objections:published by the Virginia Law Foundation, the Virginia Continuing Legal Education arm of the Virginia State Bar. Both of those texts deal exclusively with Virginia law. He has authored a book entitled Law 101 published by Sourcebooks Publishing. That is a book that he authored approximately 30 years ago. It has sold over 30,000 copies. A personal injury attorney can help guide you through the legal process and serve as your fearless advocate.
What are the Causes of Motorcycle Accidents?
Motorists are not accustomed to being on the lookout for motorcycles. They are accustomed to be on the lookout for other automobiles. That may be tough for a motorcycle rider to grasp. It is true. All too often after a motorcycle crash, the motorist says, “I didn’t see him”. They didn’t see him because they weren’t looking for a motorcycle.
It is very dangerous to get into the blind spot of an automobile. This is as true of a motorcycle rider as it is true of a person driving an automobile. The blind spot is just that. The motorist may not be able to see you. You need to stay out of that blind spot, in particular if you are riding a motorcycle.
Lane changes are probably the most common cause of motorcycle crashes. Motorcycle riders should not ride alongside other vehicles. They should either stay well in front of other motor vehicles or stay well behind them. If somebody tailgates you, you need to get away from them.
In citing these potential causes, that doesn’t mean that the motorcyclist is at fault when the crash occurs. It simply means that the motorcycle driver needs to drive defensively.
What Do You Do if You are Involved in a Motorcycle Crash?
If you need medical treatment, then of course get it promptly.
It’s important to keep the damaged bike in a safe place. That bike may be your proof of what happened.
Gather all of your maintenance records as to the motorcycle. That could be important in terms of proving that your bike was in good condition.
Do not alter the bike in any way. It needs to remain in its condition as of the date of the crash.
Make sure that your license to drive a motorcycle is current. If it is not, then make it current.
Is There Juror Bias Against Motorcycle Cases?
The short answer probably is yes. That bias can be overcome. It can be overcome through skillful questioning of potential jurors. Skillful questioning can eliminate people who have misconceptions about motorcycle drivers.
People who believe that you assume the risk simply by hopping on a motorcycle need to be stricken from your potential jury.
Getting your potential jurors to express honest feelings about motorcycle riders is required. You may need a motorcycle expert to testify as to safety functions and driving techniques that are specific to motorcycles.
Contact a Tysons Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Do not let an insurance company minimize your injuries or shift the blame onto you simply because you were riding a motorcycle. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle crash, contact our office today for a free consultation with a Tysons motorcycle accident lawyer.