Charleston Motorcycle Accidents Attorney

Fighting For Motorcycle Accident Victims in South Carolina

Motorcycle accidents are some of the most dangerous incidents on the road. Riders are more vulnerable than other motorists, and even a small collision could result in serious injuries or death. If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident, you could be qualified for compensation for your injuries and losses. At Romeo Deters, we are here to provide the legal guidance you need to seek a claim and recover the damages you deserve.

Call Romeo Deters today at (843) 396-8768 or contact us online to schedule a consultation with our motorcycle accident lawyer in Charleston.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Common causes may include:

• Distracted Driving: Motorists who are texting, eating, or adjusting their navigation systems may fail to see a motorcycle, leading to a collision.
• Failure to Yield: Many motorists fail to yield the right of way to motorcyclists, particularly at intersections. This is often due to a lack of awareness or the misconception that motorcycles are farther away than they appear.
• Speeding: Excessive speed decreases a driver’s ability to respond to sudden changes on the road, making it difficult to avoid a collision. Speeding drivers may also misjudge the speed of an approaching motorcycle, leading to dangerous situations.
• Impaired Driving: Drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs pose a substantial risk to motorcyclists. Impaired drivers often have slowed reaction times and impaired judgment, increasing the likelihood of an accident.
• Lane Splitting: Although legal in some states, lane splitting (riding between lanes of traffic) could result in accidents if drivers are not aware of a motorcyclist’s presence or make sudden lane changes.
• Road Hazards: Motorcycles are more sensitive to road hazards like potholes, gravel, wet surfaces, and debris. These hazards, while minor for cars, can cause a motorcyclist to lose control.

Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents

Common injuries may include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Even when wearing a helmet, motorcyclists could suffer from traumatic brain injuries in an accident. These injuries could lead to long-term cognitive problems, memory loss, and personality changes.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Spinal cord injuries could result in partial or full paralysis, affecting a person's mobility and quality of life. These injuries often require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
• Fractures: Fractures, particularly in the legs, arms, and ribs, are common in motorcycle accidents.
• Road Rash: When a rider is thrown from their motorcycle, they can slide across the pavement, resulting in road rash. This injury could vary from mild to severe, with deep abrasions that may require skin grafts.
• Internal Injuries: Internal injuries, like organ damage and internal bleeding, can occur even without visible signs of trauma. These injuries are life-threatening and demand immediate medical attention.
• Death: Tragically, motorcycle accidents can result in fatal injuries, leaving families devastated by the loss of a loved one. In such cases, wrongful death claims may be pursued to seek compensation for the surviving family members.

Understanding Charleston's Motorcycle Laws

The state of South Carolina has specific laws in place to protect the rights and safety of motorcyclists. Understanding these regulations is crucial for both riders and other motorists. For instance, South Carolina requires all motorcyclists under the age of 21 to wear helmets, although it's highly recommended for all riders. Moreover, drivers should be aware that certain maneuvers, like lane splitting, are not legal in South Carolina, which can be a common cause of accidents. 

Knowing these laws helps motorcyclists defend their rights in the event of an accident and enables better road-sharing practices. Our team at Romeo Deters stays updated on all laws affecting motorcyclists to ensure you have the representation you need when navigating any legal challenges.

Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident

Knowing what to do immediately following a motorcycle accident can greatly affect the outcome of your case. First and foremost, always seek immediate medical attention, even if injuries seem minor. Some injuries may not become apparent until later, and medical documentation is crucial in building a strong case. After ensuring your safety and health, gather as much information as possible from the scene, including contact information for any involved parties and witnesses.

Documenting the scene through photographs can provide valuable evidence, capturing the positions of the vehicles, road conditions, and any visible injuries. It is also essential to file a police report, as this provides an official account of the incident. At Romeo Deters, we recommend contacting a legal representative quickly to preserve your rights and begin an investigation. Our team is equipped to handle the complexities following an accident and will guide you through each step, helping to stress the importance of these actions in pursuing full compensation.