What Causes Motorcycle Accidents?
At King Law Firm, we understand that most motorcycle collisions are caused by the negligence of other drivers, despite what insurance companies might say. We represent motorcyclists after all types of accidents, such as those caused by:
- Drivers that fail to yield the right-of-way
- Unsafe lane changes by other motorists
- Hazardous conditions, such as wet or icy roadways
- Poor road conditions, such as debris, potholes, or loose gravel
- Vehicles that fail to check for motorcyclists before entering traffic
Whether you were rear-ended or forced off the road by a distracted driver, you deserve someone in your corner who understands what you’re going through and knows how to fight for your rights. Don’t leave your financial future to chance—contact our firm for the diligent advocacy you deserve.
Who Is Liable for a Motorcycle Accident?
Depending on the circumstances of the crash, various parties may be responsible for damages in a motorcycle accident claim. Some potentially liable parties include:
- Other motorists. Other drivers are often the primary liable party in motorcycle accident claims due to negligence on the road, such as running a red light.
- Manufacturers. If a faulty part or defective equipment caused the collision, the vehicle manufacturer may be responsible.
- Government entities. If debris, potholes, or missing signage caused the crash, the government entity responsible for maintaining safe roads may be liable.
- Commercial employers. If the accident was caused by a negligent Uber or Lyft driver or commercial truck operator, their employer may be responsible.
Understanding the Motorcycle Accident Claim Process
After a serious motorcycle crash, many riders and families are unsure what will happen once they contact a lawyer or file a claim. The process usually begins with an investigation into the collision, including reviewing the police report, taking photographs of the scene, and speaking with witnesses who saw what occurred on roads such as I-229 or West 12th Street in Sioux Falls. From there, your legal team will gather medical records and employment information to understand how the injuries affect your health, work, and daily life. Having a clear roadmap of these steps can make it easier to stay focused on healing while your attorney handles communications with insurers and other parties.
Once the facts are documented, your lawyer will typically present a demand package to the insurance company that explains how the crash happened and outlines your damages. Negotiations can involve several rounds of discussions as the insurer reviews the evidence and responds to the request for payment. A motorcycle accident attorney in Sioux Falls can help you evaluate each settlement offer, explain the pros and cons of accepting it, and advise whether it may be appropriate to move forward with a lawsuit in Minnehaha County Circuit Court. Throughout this process, the goal is to keep you informed so you can make decisions that align with your medical needs, financial situation, and long-term plans.
What Damages Are Recoverable in a Motorcycle Accident Claim?
Depending on the case, various forms of compensation may be available in a motorcycle accident claim. There are two primary types of recoverable damages: economic for direct financial losses (such as medical bills, property damage, and lost income) and non-economic damages for indirect losses (such as emotional distress, pain and suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life).
Punitive damages may also be available in cases involving especially egregious misconduct. Unlike other damages, these are only awarded to punish the defendant and prevent repeat behavior in the future. When you partner with our knowledgeable advocates, we can fight tirelessly to maximize available compensation and recover a comprehensive settlement for all your current and future care needs.
Can I Recover Compensation in a Motorcycle Accident Claim if I Wasn’t Wearing a Helmet?
In South Dakota, motorcycle riders under the age of 18 are required to wear a DOT-approved helmet (S.D. Codified Laws § 32-20-4). While riders 18 or older are not required to wear one, not wearing a helmet can still impact your claim after a crash.
South Dakota follows a modified comparative negligence system, meaning any compensation awarded will be reduced if your failure to wear a helmet contributed to the severity of your injuries. Working with a trusted injury lawyer is paramount to protecting your rights and achieving a fair outcome.
At King Law Firm, We Fight for You in Sioux Falls
If you were harmed by another’s carelessness, you need an attorney who is willing to go the extra mile. When you hire King Law Firm, we focus on what matters most—you. Since 1995, our firm has earned a reputation as one of the top injury law firms in South Dakota and Northern Iowa.
We never treat clients like case numbers and take a personal interest in their well-being. Our goal is to fight for full reimbursement for medical bills, pain and suffering, lost earnings and future lost earning capacity, the costs of repairing or replacing your motorcycle, and punitive damages if possible.
For injured riders in Sioux Falls, working with a motorcycle accident attorney who knows the local courts, such as the Minnehaha County Courthouse, can provide reassurance during a stressful time. Our motorcycle accident lawyer Sioux Falls team can explain each stage of the process, from filing paperwork to preparing for mediation or trial, so you are never left wondering what comes next. By combining local insight with attentive client service, we aim to help you make informed choices about settlement offers and the best path forward for you and your family.
Don’t let an insurance company tell you how much your case is worth—contact our motorcycle accident lawyers for the unwavering support you deserve.
If you were harmed in a motorcycle crash, we can fight to hold negligent parties accountable. Call (605) 250-3209 to schedule a free consultation.
