Hitting the open road on a motorcycle can be an exhilarating feeling, offering an unmatched level of freedom and sense of connection to other riders. Unfortunately, even the safest riders face grave risks from other drivers on the road. According to statistics compiled by the Nevada Department of Public Safety between 2012 and 2018, well over a thousand people have been seriously injured and over 350 people killed in motorcycle accidents in Nevada.
These are staggering and statistically significant numbers that concern us. We, therefore, urge riders to wear their helmets, practice safety, and vigilance when riding, and to understand their legal rights should another driver cause them a serious injury.
Motorcycle Riders Have Personal Injury Rights Too
While motorcyclists have to deal with a stigma that their vehicles are unsafe, the law gives motorcyclists the same rights to be on the road as cars, and the same legal protections from the negligent conduct of other drivers. Many motorcycle accidents are caused by cars and trucks that breach their duty of care by:
- Pulling in front of motorcycles.
- Changing lanes without checking their mirrors.
- Following too closely and rear-ending motorcycles.
- Driving while texting.
- Drowsy driving.
- Driving while impaired.
- Driving recklessly.
When this happens and the motorcycle rider is either seriously injured or killed, then a lawsuit can be filed by the victim (or surviving spouse or children). The victim must prove that the other driver breached a duty of care by driving negligently, that the victim was injured as a result, and that the victim suffered damages.
If successful in their personal injury lawsuit, a victim may recover damages for medical expenses, mental health expenses, lost wages and future earnings, and pain and suffering. An experienced personal injury attorney can help you understand your options and fight for your legal rights.
Trust Viloria, Oliphant, Oster & Aman L.L.P. to Fight for You
If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, or if a loved one has been killed by another driver, you need to speak with an attorney. The attorneys at Viloria, Oliphant, Oster & Aman, L.L.P. have over one hundred years of combined legal experience in numerous areas of the law, including personal injury law. Our attorneys are hard-working, experienced fighters who work on a contingency fee basis. Let us help you with your personal injury or wrongful death claim. Call Viloria, Oliphant, Oster & Aman L.L.P. today at (775) 227-2280 to schedule a free consultation or contact our office through our website.