Have you or a loved one been involved in a motorcycle accident in Wilmington, North Carolina? Recovering the compensation you deserve can be extremely challenging, but you do not have to do it alone – our expert Wilmington motorcycle accident attorney is ready to help you.
Do not wait to seek justice; contact Shipman & Wright today for a free case review. We charge no legal fee unless we win compensation for your motorcycle accident case.
Why Choose Shipman & Wright to Help With Your Motorcycle Accident Claim?
Our experienced personal injury law firm in Wilmington stands out for several reasons including:
- Experience handling motorcycle accident claims: Each Wilmington motorcycle accident lawyer at our firm possesses deep knowledge and experience with the laws governing motorcycle accident claims in North Carolina.
- Personalized attention: We understand that every case is unique and will provide personalized legal strategies tailored to your specific needs.
- Proven track record: Our lawyers have a history of securing favorable outcomes for our clients, ensuring you get the compensation you deserve. Check out some of our case results.
- Dedicated legal team: Led by experienced attorneys Gary Shipman and William Wright, our law firm is committed to fighting for the rights of accident victims in Wilmington, including those injured in devastating motorcycle crashes.
What Our Wilmington Motorcycle Accident Attorney Will Do For You
We will help you through every step of the case and take care of you including:
- Thoroughly investigate your accident to gather crucial evidence to support your claim.
- Negotiate with insurance companies on your behalf to secure a fair settlement.
- Skillfully determine liability by analyzing the circumstances.
- Maximize your compensation by identifying all potential sources of recovery.
- Aggressively advocate for your rights in court, if necessary.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Wilmington
A motorcycle accident can occur for various reasons, but some causes are more common than others:
- Distracted driving: Drivers not fully attentive to the road can easily overlook motorcycle riders or collide with pedestrians.
- Speeding: Excessive speed reduces a driver’s reaction time, increasing the severity of motorcycle and car accidents in Wilmington, NC.
- Lane splitting: Motorcyclists riding between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic can lead to motorcycle crashes.
- Impaired driving: Operating a car or motorcycle while under the influence of alcohol or drugs poses a significant risk on the road.
- Poor road conditions: Potholes, debris, and other hazards can be particularly dangerous for motorcycle riders.
Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries due to the lack of external protection for riders. Without the safety of a vehicle’s frame, motorcyclists are more vulnerable to impacts and road hazards, making these injuries all too common:
- Road rash: This occurs when a rider is thrown from the motorcycle and skids across the pavement. Road rash can vary in severity, from mild scrapes to deep abrasions that penetrate the skin and expose underlying muscle or nerves, especially if the rider isn’t wearing the appropriate riding gear or motorcycle helmet. Untreated road rash can also lead to infections or permanent scarring.
- Traumatic brain injuries (TBI): Despite wearing helmets, motorcyclists are at a higher risk of suffering TBIs during a crash. The impact of hitting the ground or another vehicle can cause concussions, brain swelling, or other life-altering cognitive impairments.
- Back injuries: Even without direct damage to the spinal cord, back injuries are common in motorcycle crashes. Herniated discs, fractured vertebrae, and muscle strains can cause chronic pain and limit mobility, affecting the rider’s ability to work or enjoy life.
- Soft tissue injuries: Damage to muscles, ligaments, and tendons, such as sprains or strains, is also common. While these injuries may seem minor at first, they can lead to lasting discomfort and mobility issues without proper treatment.
- Fractured bones: The extremities, such as the arms, legs, and wrists, are particularly vulnerable in a motorcycle accident. Riders who instinctively put out their arms to break a fall may suffer from fractures or “biker’s arm,” a condition where nerves in the upper arm are damaged.
- Spinal cord injuries: When a crash results in damage to the spinal cord, it can lead to paralysis, either partial or complete. Riders who experience spinal trauma often face long-term rehabilitation and significant lifestyle changes.
Motorcycle accidents often result in long-term physical and emotional consequences, making it crucial for injured riders to seek immediate medical attention and consult legal professionals to explore their options for recovery.
Available Compensation For Motorcycle Accident Claims
Victims of motorcycle accidents in Wilmington, North Carolina, may be entitled to various forms of compensation, including:
- Medical expenses: Past, present, and future medical treatment related to the accident.
- Lost wages: Compensation for the time you were unable to work due to your injuries.
- Property damage: Covers repairs or replacement of your motorcycle and motorcycle gear.
- Pain and suffering: Compensation for physical pain and emotional distress caused by the accident.
- Punitive damages: In cases of gross negligence, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the wrongdoer and deter future misconduct.
Our Wilmington motorcycle accident lawyers are committed to ensuring that you receive full compensation for all damages you are entitled to.
Proving Liability in North Carolina Motorcycle Accidents
In North Carolina, establishing liability in motorcycle accident cases involves understanding and proving negligence. Negligence occurs when an individual fails to act with the level of care that someone of ordinary prudence would have exercised under the same circumstances. For motorcycle accidents, this could involve violating traffic laws, driving under the influence, or failing to pay attention to the road.
Can I Receive Compensation if I Was Partially At-Fault For My Motorcycle Accident in North Carolina?
North Carolina’s contributory negligence law adds complexity to accident claims, as it can bar you from recovering any damages if you share even the slightest degree of fault (N.C. Gen. Stat. § 1-139). This makes the role of an experienced motorcycle accident attorney crucial in pursuing these claims and ensuring that the negligence of the other party is clearly demonstrated.
How Long Do I Have to File a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit in Wilmington?
In North Carolina, the statute of limitations (time limit) for motorcycle accident claims is generally three years from the date of the accident (N.C. Gen. Stat. § 1-52). However, certain situations might modify this period, potentially lengthening or shortening the time you have to initiate legal action. It is important to note that this statute does not apply to insurance claims, which typically require much more prompt action. Starting your insurance claim early ensures that you do not jeopardize your ability to seek compensation through the courts if necessary.
Client Testimonials
“We have been working with Shipman and Wright for several months now and it has been a true pleasure. Kim Smith has kept us up to date on everything and has been a delightful person to communicate with. She has helped us keep things moving along and provided updates consistently. Gary Shipman has also been a pleasure to work with and I am confident he will provide the leadership to resolve our situation. I honestly feel like we are in great hands”
Tom Craigg | Google Review
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Contact Our Experienced Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Wilmington Today
If you or a loved one was injured in a motorcycle crash in Wilmington, North Carolina, it is time to get the experienced legal representation you deserve. The Wilmington motorcycle accident attorneys at Shipman & Wright have the experience, dedication, and knowledge to help you fight successfully for the compensation you are entitled to.
Call Shipman & Wright today to schedule a free consultation and take the first step towards securing your future. Our law firm charges no legal fee unless we win compensation for you.
Wilmington Office
575 Military Cutoff Road
Suite 106
Wilmington, NC 28405
(910) 762-1990.