Motorcyclists have a responsibility to themselves to wear helmets when operating a motorcycle on the road. However, even when legal and protective measures have been taken to ensure safe riding, accidents can happen. An accident's details can be skewed depending on the circumstances in which the accident occurred. Thus, it is advisable for a motorcycle accident victim to obtain legal advice from an experienced attorney familiar with West Virginia motorcycle and motor vehicle laws before speaking with anyone, especially the other driver's insurance company.
Results of a motorcycle accident can be catastrophic due to the driver's vulnerability. All drivers must be observant and exercise caution when sharing the roadway with other vehicles. Head-on collisions between motorcycles and other vehicles often result in severe physical injuries, and, in some cases, fatalities, simply because of the lack of added protection a car offers. Common causes of motorcycle accidents include distracted driving, driving while intoxicated, colliding with a motorcycle during a left-hand turn, unexpected lane-splitting, and reckless driving in hazardous driving conditions.
If a motorcycle accident results in physical injury, a personal injury lawyer can help the victim seek compensation for medical expenses, pain and suffering, and other damages. The Law Offices of G. Wayne Van Bibber & Associates, PLLC know West Virginia law relevant in motorcycle accident cases, and can provide a consultation regarding the individual aspects of each motorcycle wreck victim's case.