Anyone who gets behind the wheel of a vehicle assumes a duty to those with whom they share the road. This duty requires that the motorist exercise reasonable care when operating their vehicle, in addition to obeying all traffic laws and posted signs.No matter which type of vehicle a motorist chooses, there is always the risk that another driver will negligently cause an accident. However, riding a motorcycle presents unique risks that other vehicles do not. Indeed, each year, there are about 1,200 Alabama motorcycle accidents, resulting in roughly 75 fatalities.
The fact that a motorcyclist is more likely to be seriously injured or killed if they are involved in an accident does not limit the liability of the person responsible for causing the accident. Thus, a motorist cannot rely on the fact that the person they hit chose to ride a motorcycle – rather than a car or a truck – as a defense. Of course, a defendant in a personal injury case is still free to claim that the plaintiff was partially at fault for causing the accident.
In Alabama, under the strict doctrine of contributory negligence, if a defendant is able to establish that a motorcycle accident victim was also negligent, then the accident victim will be precluded from recovering damages. Thus, it is very important that Alabama motorcycle accident victims contact an experienced personal injury attorney to assist them with the preparation of their case.
Alabama Motorcyclist Killed in Florida Motorcycle Accident
Earlier this month, an Alabama man was killed in a motorcycle accident involving another motorist who may have failed to yield the right-of-way to the motorcyclist at an intersection. According to a local news report, the motorcyclist was traveling northbound when an eastbound motorist who was stopped at a stop sign began to proceed through the intersection. As the driver crossed into the intersection, he cut off the motorcyclist, leaving the motorcyclist no time to avoid the collision.
The motorcycle crashed into the front passenger portion of the motorist’s vehicle, sending the motorcyclist flying off the bike and onto the pavement. He was transported to the hospital by emergency responders, where he was pronounced dead a short time later. The other motorist was not injured in the collision. Police have filed charges against the motorist.
Have You Been Injured in an Alabama Motorcycle Accident?
If you or a loved one has recently been injured in an Alabama motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to monetary compensation. Attorney Greg Reeves of the Reeves Law Firm has extensive experience handling a wide range of Alabama personal injury cases, including motorcycle accident claims. Through his diligent and skillful representation, you may be able to recover compensation for your injuries, including amounts for your past and future medical expenses, lost wages, and any pain and suffering you endured as a result of the accident. To learn more, call 256-355-3311 to schedule your free consultation with Attorney Reeves today.