Call Us 919-240-4054At Johnson & Groninger PLLC, we provide professional legal representation for motorcycle crash victims and their families. From navigating insurance claims to pursuing litigation, we are committed to making sure our clients receive the maximum possible compensation for their losses.
“Accident” is a misleading term
Motorcycle crashes are often called “motorcycle accidents,” but negligence is not an accident; it’s a failure to follow the rules. Referring to these incidents as “accidents” can obscure who is at fault and downplay the seriousness of the negligent behavior. Using terms like “crash” or “collision” more accurately describes what happened.
Why are motorcycle collisions so serious?
Motorcycle collisions can be particularly severe because motorcycles lack the protective structure of cars and trucks. Also drivers often look only for other cars and trucks on the road and not smaller vehicles, like motorcycles and bicycles, or pedestrians, making two-wheeled vehicle drivers more vulnerable to being hit.
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), in 2022, “motorcyclists were about 22 times more likely than passenger vehicle occupants to die in a motor vehicle crash and were 4 times more likely to be injured.” This should not be the case, and holding drivers who cause these crashes accountable is an important part of preventing more of them in the future.
How much does it cost to hire a motorcycle accident lawyer in Charlotte?
At Johnson & Groninger PLLC, our lawyers work on a contingency basis, meaning you pay nothing for your Charlotte motorcycle accident lawyer unless we win your case and you get paid.
Our hard work pays off for clients
At Johnson & Groninger PLLC, we have successfully handled multiple motorcycle crash cases for our clients. Our Charlotte partner, Ann Groninger, is a licensed motorcycle driver and understands the handling and operation of motorcycles. That knowledge and skill gives us the upper hand in negotiating these cases and, if necessary, presenting them to a jury.
What should I do after being in a motorcycle crash?
Being involved in a motorcycle crash is stressful. If physically possible, take these steps to protect yourself:
1. Get to a safe location, but leave your bike
2. Keep on your safety gear
3. Call 911 and ask for an ambulance and the police
4. Gather evidence at the scene
5. Notify your insurance company
6. Meet with a Charlotte motorcycle accident lawyer
How long do I have to file a claim?
You have three years from the date of the injury to file a personal injury case in court. However, it is highly preferable to begin the claim process immediately and, if necessary, file a lawsuit with plenty of time remaining within the three years. In wrongful death cases, you have two years to file a complaint. You should seek legal counsel long before these deadlines near.
What types of damages can I claim?
As in other personal injury cases, you may claim damages for past and future medical expenses, past and future lost wages, past and future pain and suffering (including physical impairment and loss of activities), and property damage.
In a wrongful death case, if a victim survives the crash for any period of time, their estate is entitled to some of the same damages available in personal injury cases. The estate is also allowed to claim damages for loss of companionship and services, and other damages related to the loss of a loved one to their heirs.
Who could be liable for the crash?
Determining liability in a motorcycle crash depends on the details of your case. If another driver behaved negligently and caused the crash, that driver should be held responsible. If the driver was performing job-related duties at the time of the crash, their employer might be responsible for damages as well. Motorcycle manufacturers could also be liable if defects in the motorcycle or its parts contributed to the crash. Finally government entities could be responsible, in some instances, for unsafe road conditions or inadequate signage.
How our Charlotte motorcycle attorneys prove negligence
Personal injury cases are based on a theory of negligence, which is the failure to use the care that a reasonable person would in a similar situation. There are four elements to proving negligence in a motorcycle crash:
1. Duty of care
2. Breach of duty
3. Causation
4. Damages
We fight the insurance company to get you full compensation
Insurance companies will do everything they can to minimize a claimant’s recovery. The lawyers at Johnson & Groninger PLLC understand these tactics, and we are ready to fight the insurance company to get you and your family full and fair compensation.
“Dos” and “Don’ts” of dealing with insurance after a crash
Do:
- Get medical treatment and follow your doctor’s orders
- Consult with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer
- Use health insurance, if you have it, for treatment
Don’t:
- Admit fault
- Downplay your injuries
- Provide auto insurance information to medical providers (this might be different if you have a policy from a state other than North Carolina)
- Report the claim to any insurance company without first speaking with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer
- Sign a settlement offer without consulting a lawyer first
Why do I need to go to the doctor?
Following a motorcycle crash, it is important to see a doctor to evaluate and treat your injuries, no matter how minor they may seem. Documenting your medical condition after the crash will help ensure that you are appropriately compensated for your injuries. . Even if you think your injuries are not serious, a medical visit can ensure any potential issues are detected and treated early and, in the absence of any findings, provide peace of mind.
Why work with Johnson & Groninger PLLC
When it comes to motorcycle crashes, expertise is crucial. Johnson & Groninger PLLC boasts an experienced team that has a deep understanding of the complexities surrounding motorcycle crash cases. We’re not just legal advocates; we’re passionate about ensuring that our clients receive the justice and compensation they deserve. With a proven track record of success, partnering with us means placing your trust in a firm that is committed to delivering results while you focus on recovery.
Our Charlotte motorcycle accident lawyers are ready to help
Attorneys at Johnson & Groninger are fully dedicated to helping our clients. We’re passionate about the law and are happy to educate injured people about the NC legal system and the ins and outs of their cases.
Each of our lawyers is community-minded and client-focused. Please call (704) 200-2009 to speak with a Charlotte personal injury attorney. We look forward to hearing from you.