Fighting For Maximum Damages For Bikers Hurt In Southern Ohio

Motorcycle accidents in Ohio continue to rise, along with injuries and fatalities. Each year over the last five years, more than 200 motorcyclists have died in accidents, according to the Ohio State Highway Patrol. Motorcyclists lack the protection of enclosed vehicles, making collisions with other motor vehicles often result in catastrophic injuries.

If you or someone you love has suffered injuries in a motorcycle crash, contact The Law Firm of Richard M. Lewis today for a free consultation about your accident. There are no upfront legal fees, and we work on contingency. If we don’t collect damages for you, you won’t pay us anything.

Common Injuries Sustained In Motorcycle Accidents In Ohio

Motorcyclists face significantly higher risks on the road compared to other motorists. When motorcycle accidents happen in Athens County, Gallia County, Jackson County, Pike County or anywhere else in southern Ohio, injuries can be devastating.

In addition to wrongful death, common injuries sustained in motorcycle crashes include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Spine and neck trauma (including paralysis)
• Fractured and broken bones
• Serious road rash, cuts and lacerations
• Amputations
• Hand and foot injuries
• Internal injuries, including severe bleeding

These life-changing injuries require costly and long-term treatment. It’s important to make sure you get the settlement you deserve, not the lowball offer the insurance company may initially propose. Mr. Lewis won’t settle for less than your case is worth. He won’t hesitate to play hardball at the negotiation table. When necessary, he will take your case to court.

Common Causes Of Motorcycle Accidents In Southern Ohio

Motorcycle accidents across southern Ohio happen for various reasons that riders should be aware of. These include:

• Driver visibility issues: Many car, truck and bus drivers claim they simply don’t “see” motorcyclists on the road.
• Weather conditions: Rain, fog and snow create hazardous riding conditions throughout Pike County and surrounding areas.
• Road hazards: Construction zones, potholes and debris pose greater dangers to motorcyclists than to other vehicles.
• Distracted driving: Motorists using phones or other devices often fail to notice smaller vehicles like motorcycles.
• Left-turn collisions: Vehicles turning left at intersections frequently misjudge motorcycle speed or fail to yield.
• Dooring incidents: Parked drivers opening doors without checking for approaching motorcycles.

For more than 40 years, we have worked tirelessly to investigate all types of vehicular accidents by reviewing all documentation including police reports and medical records and by interviewing witnesses. We will fight for your family too.

Ohio Motorcycle Laws You Should Know

Understanding Ohio motorcycle laws can significantly impact your case following an accident. Keep these statutes in mind:

• Helmet requirements: Ohio law requires helmets only for riders under 18 and those with less than one year of riding experience.
• Insurance minimums: All motorcyclists must carry liability insurance with minimum coverage of $25,000 per person/$50,000 per accident.
• Lane splitting: Unlike in some states, lane splitting is illegal in Ohio and can affect liability in accident claims.
• Passenger restrictions: Motorcycles must have proper seating and footrests for any passengers.
• Licensing requirements: All riders must obtain a motorcycle endorsement on their license through testing or completion of a safety course.

Knowing these laws helps protect your rights on southern Ohio roads and strengthens your position when seeking compensation after a motorcycle accident in Pike County, Jackson County or surrounding areas.

What Should You Do Immediately After A Motorcycle Accident In Jackson County?

After a motorcycle accident, prioritize your safety and protect your legal rights. Move to a safe location if possible and seek immediate medical attention even if injuries seem minor. Document the scene with photos and collect contact information from witnesses. Report the accident to police and obtain a copy of the report. Contact The Law Firm of Richard M. Lewis before speaking with insurance companies to ensure your rights are protected.

How Does Ohio Law Affect Your Motorcycle Accident Claim?

Ohio follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning you can recover damages as long as you’re found to be 50% or less responsible for the accident. However, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault.

This makes proper legal representation crucial, especially in southern Ohio where biases against motorcyclists can affect case outcomes.

How Long Do You Have To File A Motorcycle Accident Claim In Ohio?

In Ohio, the statute of limitations for motorcycle accident claims is generally two years from the date of the accident. Missing this deadline typically means losing your right to compensation.

Certain exceptions may apply in limited circumstances, which is why consulting with The Law Firm of Richard M. Lewis promptly after your accident is essential.

Can You Still File A Claim If You Weren’t Wearing A Helmet?

Yes, you can still file a claim even if you weren’t wearing a helmet at the time of your motorcycle accident. Since Ohio law doesn’t require helmets for most adult riders, not wearing one doesn’t automatically prevent you from seeking compensation.

However, the defense might argue that your injuries were worsened by not wearing a helmet, potentially affecting your settlement amount.

Talk To Richard Lewis About Your Motorcycle Crash Injuries For Free

Following a motorcycle accident, it’s important to focus on your health and recovery. Allow The Law Firm of Richard M. Lewis to take care of the legal business involved in obtaining the substantial compensation you deserve for your injuries. We have obtained millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for our clients, getting justice for our clients by holding negligent parties responsible for the accidents they’ve caused.

Contact our office via email or call 740-688-2164 today for a free consultation about your motorcycle accident. We will be on your side from the moment we speak and won’t stop fighting for you until we’ve helped you collect the compensation you deserve. We work on contingency; if we don’t win, you don’t pay.