Riding a motorcycle is a thrilling and liberating experience. However, it can also be dangerous, especially when other drivers on the road do not pay attention or fail to yield to motorcyclists. With a high probability of accidents and a relatively high risk of serious injury or death, it’s important to understand what steps to take if you’re involved in a motorcycle accident in Ohio.
Table of Contents
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents can occur for several reasons. Some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents include:
- Failure to yield the right-of-way
- Rear-end collisions
- Lane splitting
- Speeding
- Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
- Distracted driving, such as texting while driving
- Road hazards, such as debris or potholes
- Equipment failure on the motorcycle
Important Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident
If you’re involved in a motorcycle accident, it’s essential to take certain steps to ensure your safety and protect your rights. Some of the critical steps to take include:
1. Seek Medical Attention
Seeking medical attention is the first step after a motorcycle accident, even if you feel like you’re not injured. Many injuries may not appear for several days after the accident, so it’s best to get checked out by a doctor just to be sure.
2. Contact the Police
Call the police immediately after the accident, and do not leave the scene until the police arrive. The police report is an essential document, and it can help establish fault and liability in the accident.
3. Collect Information
Collect as much information as possible after the accident. Take photos of the accident scene, including the vehicles involved, damage to the vehicles, and any visible injuries. Get the name, contact information, and insurance information from the other driver(s) involved in the accident, as well as the names and contact information of any witnesses.
4. Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company
Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible. If you delay, you risk having your claim denied.
5. Contact an Experienced Personal Injury Lawyer
Contact an experienced lawyer who specializes in personal injury cases involving motorcycle accidents. A lawyer can help you understand your rights and guide you through the legal process of filing a claim for compensation.
Ohio’s Comparative Negligence Rule
Ohio is a comparative negligence state, which means that if you’re partly at fault for the accident, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you. For example, if you were 20% at fault for the accident, your compensation would be reduced by 20%.
Statute of Limitations for Filing a Claim
In Ohio, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim after a motorcycle accident is two years from the date of the accident. If you fail to file a claim within this time frame, you may be barred from seeking compensation.
Types of Compensation Available
If you’re injured in a motorcycle accident in Ohio, you may be entitled to compensation, including:
- Medical expenses, including hospital bills, doctor visits, therapy, and medication
- Lost wages
- Loss of earning capacity
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Property damage
Conclusion
If you’re involved in a motorcycle accident in Ohio, it’s important to act quickly to ensure your safety and protect your rights. Seek medical attention immediately, collect as much information as possible, report the accident to your insurance company, and contact an experienced personal injury lawyer. Remember, the statute of limitations for filing a claim is just two years, so don’t delay. With the right help and guidance, you can recover the compensation you deserve and move forward with your life.