Motorcycle Accident Attorney FAQ
What should I do if I’m involved in a motorcycle accident?
If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, it is important to remain at the scene. If you flee, you could be criminally prosecuted. Stay calm and call the police. Seek medical attention, even if you are not injured. Your injuries may take a few days—even weeks—to surface. Be sure to collect the names, addresses and phone numbers of any witnesses or others involved in the accident. You will also need to collect any and all insurance information from those involved in the accident. It is easy to become overwhelmed or discouraged, but experienced motorcycle accident lawyers like Gregory & Swapp are here to make sure you are fairly compensated.
What are some motorcycle requirements in the state of Utah?
Utah state law requires all motorcycles to be equipped with:
- One head lamp, tail lamp and stop lamp
- One rear red reflector
- A braking system
- An illuminated rear license plate
- A emission controls system that complies with Utah requirements
- A horn or warning device
- A mirror
- Passenger foot rests
- Handlebars that do not exceed shoulder height
Helmets are required for all operators or passengers under 18 years of age. Any motorcyclist is also required to have with them an operator’s license and owner’s insurance.
What should I say to the other party involved in the accident or their insurance adjuster?
If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, you should not say anything too specific about the accident and you should never admit fault. Often times, in the aftermath following an accident, people say things that may not necessarily be true. An incorrect admission of guilt (even if made while you are in a state of shock) can have a detrimental impact on your motorcycle accident claim. When you do decide to make a statement to the other parties involved in your motorcycle accident, you should have a witness (preferably a lawyer) present so your statement can not be misconstrued.
I was partially responsible for the motorcycle accident, can I still recover damages?
Recovering compensation from a motorcycle accident can involve different types of negligence, including comparative negligence and contributory negligence. Utah is a comparative negligence state that follows a 50 percent rule. This means that if you are injured, you can only recover damages if it is determined that your fault in causing the injury is 49% or less. If your fault level reaches 50%, you cannot recover any damages resulting from the accident.
What are some common motorcycle accident injuries?
Some of the most common motorcycle accidents include severe road rash, multiple broken bones, brain and spinal cord injuries, neck and back injuries and leg and arm amputation. Motorcycle accidents can be caused by an array of factors, such as poor weather conditions, defective tires or brakes, and the negligence or recklessness of other drivers.
If you or someone you know and love was hurt or killed in a motorcycle accident, you deserve to be fairly compensated. Gregory & Swapp has been fighting to protect victims’ rights for more than 50 years. Our friendly and qualified staff can answer your questions, explain your options, and help you recover what you rightfully deserve. Please contact our office today for a free consultation. One call, that’s all.
Don’t see your question? Contact us and we’ll reply and post your question and answer on our site.
