If you’re a motorcyclist in Nashville, then you’re likely aware of the risks that come with riding on the city’s roads. Unfortunately, accidents can happen even when you’re being as careful as possible. In the event that you’re involved in a motorcycle accident, it’s crucial to have a skilled attorney on your side who can help you navigate the legal process and protect your rights.
In this blog post, we’ll take a closer look at the importance of having a Nashville motorcycle accident attorney, some of the key facts and statistics related to motorcycle accidents in the city, and what you should do if you find yourself in an accident.
Why You Need a Nashville Motorcycle Accident Attorney
If you’re involved in a motorcycle accident, there are a number of reasons why it’s important to have an experienced attorney on your side. Here are just a few of the key benefits:
- Protecting Your Rights: After an accident, insurance companies will often try to minimize their own liability by offering lowball settlements to victims. An attorney can help ensure that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and other damages.
- Navigating Complex Laws: Motorcycle accidents can be especially complicated when it comes to determining fault and liability. An attorney who specializes in this area of law will have the knowledge and experience necessary to help you navigate the legal process and get the best possible outcome.
- Access to Resources: A skilled attorney will have access to a wide range of resources, including accident reconstruction experts, medical professionals, and other specialists who can help build a strong case on your behalf.
- Peace of Mind: Dealing with the aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be incredibly stressful. Having an attorney on your side can help alleviate some of that stress and provide you with the peace of mind of knowing that you’re in good hands.
Facts and Statistics on Nashville Motorcycle Accidents
Unfortunately, motorcycle accidents are all too common in Nashville. Here are a few key facts and statistics to keep in mind:
- According to data from the Tennessee Department of Safety and Homeland Security, there were 2,708 motorcycle crashes in the state in 2019, resulting in 2,291 injuries and 158 fatalities.
- In Davidson County (which includes Nashville), there were 264 motorcycle crashes in 2019, resulting in 236 injuries and 10 fatalities.
- Motorcycle accidents are more likely to result in serious injury or death than other types of accidents. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, motorcyclists are 28 times more likely than passenger vehicle occupants to die in a crash.
- The majority of motorcycle accidents are caused by other drivers. According to the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, other drivers are responsible for about two-thirds of all motorcycle accidents.
- Motorcycle accidents are often caused by drivers who fail to see motorcycles. Because motorcycles are smaller and less visible than other vehicles, they can be more easily overlooked on the road.
What to Do If You’re in a Motorcycle Accident
If you’re involved in a motorcycle accident, it’s important to take certain steps to protect your rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you deserve. Here’s what you should do:
- Seek Medical Attention: Your health and safety should be your top priority. If you’re injured, seek medical attention right away. Even if you feel fine, it’s still a good idea to get checked out by a doctor to make sure that there aren’t any hidden injuries.
- Contact an Attorney: As soon as possible after the accident, contact an experienced Nashville motorcycle accident attorney. Your attorney can help guide you through the legal process and ensure that your rights are protected.
- Document the Scene: If possible, take photos of the accident scene, including any damage to your motorcycle and other vehicles involved. Get the names and contact information of any witnesses, as their testimony could be valuable in building your case.
- Report the Accident: In Tennessee, you’re required to report any accident that results in injury, death, or property damage over $1,500 to the Department of Safety and Homeland Security within 20 days. Your attorney can help you with this process.
- Don’t Sign Anything: Insurance companies will often try to get accident victims to sign a release or settlement offer soon after the accident. Don’t sign anything without first consulting with your attorney.
- Follow Your Doctor’s Orders: It’s important to follow your doctor’s orders and attend all necessary medical appointments. This will not only help you recover more quickly, but it will also provide documentation of your injuries, which could be important in building your case.
- Be Patient: It can take time to resolve a motorcycle accident case, especially if there are disputes over fault or liability. Be patient and trust that your attorney is working hard to get you the compensation you deserve.
If you’re a motorcyclist in Nashville, it’s important to be aware of the risks of riding on the city’s roads. In the event of an accident, having a skilled Nashville motorcycle accident attorney on your side can be crucial in protecting your rights and ensuring that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and other damages.
By understanding the facts and statistics related to motorcycle accidents in Nashville, and taking the necessary steps to protect yourself after an accident, you can help minimize the impact of an accident on your life and move forward with confidence.
Have you been hurt in a crash? Contact the law firm with over 30 years of experience representing injured motorcyclists: call Kass & Moses at 1-800-MOTORCYCLE.