Can You File a Claim for Road Hazards Causing a Motorcycle Accident?

Long roads, crisp winds, and the thrill of the ride - there is nothing quite like the freedom of being on a motorcycle. However, the fun of riding can quickly turn into a nightmare if road conditions are poor. No matter how skilled or cautious you are, riding your motorcycle on a hazardous road can put your life at risk.

According to a study, 82,528 motorcyclists were injured, and 5,579 motorcyclists died in traffic crashes in the United States in 2020. Most of these accidents are caused by unsafe road conditions that could have been prevented with proper maintenance and supervision.

Motorcycle accidents can be especially severe, and determining liability can be challenging when road hazards are the cause. If you or your loved one has been in a motorcycle accident, one of the most significant setbacks you will face is filing a claim and knowing who to hold responsible.
In this article, we’ll discuss how road hazards contribute to motorcycle accidents, who may be held liable, and how an accident attorney can help you throughout the legal process.

Don’t wait — reach out to us for expert legal guidance and a free case evaluation.

Most Common Road Hazards That Cause Motorcycle Accidents?

You might feel safer in vehicles with enclosed structures, but motorcyclists are exposed and vulnerable to serious injuries because they lack this protective barrier. Take a look at some of the most common road hazards that could be risky for motorcycle riders:

• Poor road surfaces, uneven pavements, or construction areas with loose gravel or no clear barriers can be dangerous.
• Large or deep potholes can cause a motorcyclist to lose control, leading to an accident and severe injuries.
• Debris on the road could be hazardous for motorcyclists. Examples include fallen branches, construction materials, or objects from other vehicles.
• Spilled oil, wet pavements, or icy roads make the surface slippery and difficult for a motorcycle to maintain traction.
• Missing or unclear road signs, lack of visible lane markings, or faded stop signs are major risks for motorcyclists, leading to accidents.
• Sometimes, uneven railroad crossings can trap a motorcycle’s wheels, leading to a crash.

You have the right to file a claim against the responsible party for any motorcycle accidents caused by the above reasons.

Compensation for Motorcycle Accidents Caused by Road Hazards

If you are sure that a hazard was the reason for your accident, and we are able to prove it in court for you, then you may be entitled to compensation for the:

• Medical expenses (hospital bills, surgeries, rehabilitation)
• Lost wages (if you’re unable to work due to injuries)
• Pain and suffering
• Motorcycle repair or replacement costs

Parties or Entities Liable for a Motorcycle Accident Due to Road Hazards

When road hazards cause a motorcycle accident, potential parties that may be held responsible include -

• Construction Companies: If the accident has occurred in a construction zone due to debris, improper signage, or unsafe road conditions, the construction company responsible for maintaining the site may be held liable.
• Government Entities: If your accident was caused due to poor road conditions or missing road signs, you can file a claim against the government. However, the process is challenging and involves strict deadlines and procedures so you need an auto accident lawyer to help you.
• Private Property Owners: The owner can be held responsible if the hazardous road is a private property, such as a parking lot or a private road.
• Other Drivers: In some cases, another driver’s carelessness may contribute to a road hazard. For example, if a truck spills cargo onto the road that leads to your accident, the truck driver or the trucking company could be held liable.

What Should You Do to Make Your Motorcycle Accident Case Strong?

You must file a claim against the liable party if you think your motorcycle accident was caused by road hazards. However, proving the other party’s negligence is essential for a successful claim.

You must follow these steps to strengthen your case:

• Take photos and videos of the road hazard and your motorcycle damage.
• Note the location and time of the accident and try to connect with the witnesses.
• Seek medical attention even if you feel fine because some injuries may arise later. Having a complete medical checkup helps you document the injuries.
• File a police report without any delay to have an official record of the accident. The report also includes valuable details about the road conditions that are useful for your case in the future.
• Contact an accident lawyer in West Sacramento who can help gather evidence, determine liability, and file your claim within the required deadlines.

Takeaway

If you get injured in a motorcycle accident due to road hazards, you can file a case against the liable parties and claim compensation. However, it's difficult to prove the liability when dealing with government entities or big construction companies.
The best way to improve your chances of a successful claim is to hire a trusted West Sacramento auto accident lawyer.

Read More About:

• What to Do if You’re Injured in a Car Accident as a Passenger
• How Insurance Companies Handle Drunk Driving Accident(DUI) Claims
• How Soon Should You Seek Legal Help After a Car Accident?

Get the Compensation You Deserve - Contact Doyle O’Donnell Today.

We understand how challenging it can be for anyone after facing an accident. Claiming against the liable authorities while recovering from injuries is tough. That’s why most people fail to receive the compensation they deserve.

If you are also going through this difficult situation and are looking for a trusted attorney, contact us at Doyle O’Donnell. We are one of the top-rated car accident attorneys in West Sacramento for over 30+ years.

We understand how difficult it is to deal with physical injuries and financial losses incurred due to an accident. In such a situation, one can’t pay enough attention to the legal procedures. We help our clients to get the settlement or compensation they deserve.

We don’t charge any fees until we win the case. Contact us today for a free case evaluation.

Call us at 916-345-2832 and protect your rights!