Motorcycle accidents typically have unique issues compared to other personal injury cases, such as car accidents. If you have been injured in a bicycle accident that you believe was someone else’s fault, it is best to contact an attorney for help.
All accidents can lead to serious injuries. A motorcycle accident is no exception. Sometimes, accidents that involve motorcycles result in serious and devastating injuries, and in other cases, tragic fatalities occur. If you are involved in this situation, you may be unable to return to work for a long time and you will likely need financial help to cover your day-to-day expenses. You must also worry about the medical costs associated with your recovery.
Getting the needed financial compensation for a motorcycle accident that was caused by someone else’s recklessness or carelessness typically means hiring a personal injury attorney. Keep reading to learn more about paying for personal injury accidents and how an attorney can help you get the compensation you deserve.
Insurance Laws and Requirements in South Dakota
According to SDCL 32-35-113, the owner of any registered motorcycle is required to maintain financial responsibility while driving. In this state, financial responsibility can be through motorcycle insurance, a certificate of deposit, a bond with a surety company, or securities that are in the amount of $50K that are on deposit with the State Treasurer’s office.
It is also important to note that South Dakota is considered an “at fault” insurance state. What this means is that you will be liable for any damages that occur during an accident if you are determined to be the one who is at fault. If you do not have enough insurance coverage in place, you will face the suspension of your license, potential jail time, and you may even be sued for damages.
However, what if you are not at fault? What options do you have?
Seeking Compensation After Your Accident
If it is determined that the other party was at fault for your accident and injuries, the best thing you can do is find and hire an experienced motorcycle accident attorney in the area. This individual will understand what you are going through.
After an accident, there is a good chance you will be unable to return to work and that the medical bills will begin to accumulate. However, there is no reason for you to be saddled with this financial burden. The person who is considered at fault should pay. When you hire an bicycle accident attorney, they will begin building a lawsuit to help ensure the at-fault individual is required to cover the financial aspects of your injury case. Some of the damages they may help you recover include:
- All accident-related medical bills – past and future
- All lost wages
- Loss of future earning capacity
- Training for new professional needs made necessary by the accident
- Therapy needs
- Property damage
- Pain and suffering
- Financial losses if a loved one was killed
Determining the Cause of a Motorcycle Accident
There is no way you can receive compensation for the damages that occurred during your motorcycle accident unless you can clearly demonstrate how their actions resulted in the situation. While it may seem obvious who is at fault, the other person may have an attorney or their insurance company that wants to reduce or even eliminate the requirement to pay you the damages that you deserve. The attorney you have is tasked with the job of proving fault, which is why it is so important for you to hire this legal professional as soon as you can.
If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, it may seem like a hopeless situation. The costs both short- and long-term can be devastating. However, you have rights and an attorney can help ensure you receive the damages you deserve for the injuries you incurred during the accident. Finding an bicycle accident attorneys right away will help improve your chances of receiving the compensation you deserve.
