Franklin Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
Get help from our experienced Franklin motorcycle accident attorneys today
Motorcyclists are particularly vulnerable on the road, often enduring severe injuries and substantial hardships due to the negligence of others. If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle collision, you understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll it can take. Our dedicated team of Franklin motorcycle accident attorneys at Rocky McElhaney Law Firm is here to provide the expert guidance and unwavering support needed during this difficult time. With a deep understanding of the intricacies of motorcycle accident cases, we stand ready to be your advocates, fighting passionately for your rights and the compensation you deserve.
Why are motorcycle accidents so dangerous?
In 2021, 5,932 people were killed in motorcycle accidents across the United States. The National Highway Traffic Administration also reports, “in States without universal helmet laws, 57 percent of motorcyclists killed in 2019 were not wearing helmets, as compared to 9 percent in States with universal helmet laws.”
Motorcycle helmets are required in Tennessee, with the state noting that “Approved helmets include DOT (FMVSS 218 Certified), CSPM, SNELL, and SIRC.”
Motorcycle accidents are often more deadly than car and truck accidents because motorcycles offer little or no protection. Motorcycles don’t have a hood, front, or sides to protect their riders and passengers. They also weigh much less than cars and trucks, which can make the physical impact of a crash much more severe.
What are the main causes of Franklin motorcycle accidents?
Motorcycle accidents can result from various factors, and understanding the main causes is crucial for promoting safety on the road. Some common causes of motorcycle accidents include:
- Distracted driving. Inattentive drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or engaging in other distractions may not notice motorcyclists on the road.
- Left-turn accidents. Collisions often occur when a car makes a left turn in front of an oncoming motorcycle. Drivers may misjudge the speed of the motorcycle or fail to see it altogether.
- Lane splitting. Riding a motorcycle between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic can be risky, as it increases the chances of sideswipe accidents. Lane splitting is illegal in Tennessee.
- Motorcyclists who exceed the speed limit or ride too fast for road conditions may have less time to react to obstacles or changes in traffic.
- Impaired driving. Riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs a motorcyclist's ability to operate the vehicle safely.
- Failure to yield the right of way. Motorcycles are sometimes overlooked, leading to accidents when other drivers fail to yield the right of way.
- Inexperienced riders. Lack of experience or inadequate training can contribute to poor decision-making and handling of the motorcycle.
- Unsafe lane changes. Collisions may occur when drivers fail to check blind spots or use turn signals, resulting in a motorcyclist being sideswiped.
- Road hazards. Uneven road surfaces, potholes, debris, or slippery conditions can pose significant dangers to motorcyclists.
- Vehicle maneuvering. Abrupt or unpredictable movements by other vehicles, such as sudden lane changes or swerving, can catch motorcyclists off guard.
- Defective equipment. Mechanical failures or defects in the motorcycle itself, such as faulty brakes or tires, can lead to accidents.
- Weather conditions. Adverse weather, such as rain, snow, or strong winds, can increase the risk of motorcycle accidents.
- Motorcycle defects. Issues with the motorcycle's design or manufacturing may contribute to accidents. Faulty parts or inadequate safety features can pose serious risks.
- Visibility issues. Motorcycles are smaller and may be less visible than other vehicles, especially in blind spots or during low-light conditions.
If you have been injured in an accident, talk to the Franklin motorcycle accident attorneys at Rocky McElhaney Law Firm today.
What are common injuries from Franklin motorcycle accidents?
Motorcycle accidents often result in various injuries due to the rider's exposed nature and the potential for high-impact collisions. Here are some of the most common injuries from motorcycle accidents:
Lower extremity injuries
- Leg and foot fractures: The legs are particularly vulnerable in motorcycle accidents, leading to frequent fractures in bones like the femur, tibia, fibula, and ankles.
- Road rash: Sliding across the pavement causes severe abrasion and tearing of skin, potentially requiring extensive wound care and leaving permanent scarring.
- Foot and ankle injuries: Crushed toes, sprains, and dislocations are common due to impacts or entanglement with the motorcycle.
Upper extremity injuries
- Arm and hand fractures: Similar to legs, arms, and hands are at risk of fractures due to impacts or instinctively bracing for a fall.
- Wrist and hand injuries: Sprains, strains, and dislocations in the wrist and hand joints are common due to impacts or trying to control the motorcycle during a crash.
Head and neck injuries
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): While helmets significantly reduce the risk, head injuries can still occur, ranging from concussions to severe TBI with potentially life-altering consequences.
- Whiplash: Sudden neck movement during a crash can cause strain and damage to muscles and ligaments in the neck, leading to pain and restricted movement.
- Facial fractures and disfigurement: Impacts can cause fractures of the jaw, nose, cheekbones, and teeth, potentially requiring surgery and leaving permanent scarring.
Other common injuries
- Spinal cord injuries: These can be devastating, causing varying degrees of paralysis or nerve damage depending on the severity of the injury.
- Internal injuries: Blunt force trauma can damage internal organs like the spleen, liver, lungs, and kidneys, leading to internal bleeding and requiring immediate medical attention.
- Burns: Contact with hot engine parts or road friction can cause burns of varying degrees, requiring medical treatment and potentially resulting in scarring.
Psychological trauma: The shock and emotional distress of an accident can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression.
What is the value of my Franklin motorcycle accident claim?
Many factors can affect the value of your claim, including:
- Severity of your injuries. The extent of your physical and emotional injuries plays a significant role in determining the claim value. More severe injuries requiring extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and potential long-term impacts generally lead to higher claim values.
- Medical expenses. All documented medical expenses incurred due to the accident, including ambulance rides, emergency room visits, surgeries, medication, and ongoing therapy, are considered in the claim value.
- Lost wages. Any income lost due to the accident, including missed work days, reduced earning capacity, and future lost wages, are factored into the claim.
- Pain and suffering. The physical and emotional pain and suffering you experience as a result of the accident are also compensated. This can be a challenging aspect to quantify, but your lawyer will use evidence and expert testimony to demonstrate the impact on your life.
- Motorcycle damage. Any damage to your motorcycle is included in the claim value.
- Liability. Identifying the responsible party (driver of the other vehicle, another motorcyclist, etc.) and proving their negligence is vital for a successful claim.
Our Franklin motorcycle lawyers can help identify all liable parties in your accident and hold them accountable for your injuries.
Experienced Franklin motorcycle accident lawyers working for you
Riding a motorcycle brings a sense of freedom, but when accidents happen, the consequences can be devastating. If you've experienced the aftermath of a motorcycle accident, our dedicated team at Rocky McElhaney Law Firm is here to stand by your side. Our Franklin motorcycle accident attorneys understand the unique challenges faced by motorcyclists and the impact such accidents can have on your life. To schedule a meeting with a skilled lawyer, call our offices or fill out our contact form today.