Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycles are considered to be dangerous vehicles, particularly because they offer very little protection while at the same time tend to be unnoticed by other motorists. For this reason, it is prudent that a motorcycle is designed in a way to meet the safety needs of the rider(s). The parts of the motorcycle, as well as, all its components should be responsive – especially when called upon by the driver to maintain control of the bike. If anything goes wrong and causes the rider of the bike to crash, it may be possible to hold the manufacturer or supplier responsible.
Defective Parts or Design Flaws
If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident, one of the first questions you might have is “how did this happen?”. Immediately, you may consider the various causes of the accident, including whether the bike malfunctioned. Even if all of the parts, such as breaks, worked properly, a good motorcycle accident lawyer may be able to argue the design itself was not safe.
As a leading motorcycle accident lawyer in [state], we know of cases that have involved many different types of malfunctions. The most common components that fail on motorcycles include:
- Brakes – The inability to stop is just as dangerous as when the brakes are held to firmly; thus, causing the rider to be thrown.
- Alignment of the Wheel – It is crucial that a bike is balanced. If the wheel(s) are misaligned, it can cause the rider to lose balance and control of the bike.
- Accelerator Defect – Just like coming to an abrupt halt can jar the rider, a defective accelerator can confuse the driver and lead to a loss of control.
- Faulty Suspension System – The suspension system of a motorcycle is responsible for absorbing the shock from bumps and uneven terrain. It also assists in helping the rider to maintain control of the bike. If the suspension system is defective in any way, it can lead to a loss of control and an accident.
- Kickstand Malfunction – The average motorcycle weighs hundreds of pounds. If the kickstand malfunctions, it can be a surprise to the rider who might have thought the bike was parked. When something like this happens, the bike might fall on top of them causing broken bones, internal injuries, and more.
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident, it is important that you record and keep as much evidence as possible. More than likely, the riders of the bikes will have been injured in a way that prevents them from doing much at the scene of the accident. If this is true, it can help to have friends or family members preserve anything that could be valuable in a case. You should not let the insurance company take any part of the bike away until you have spoken with a motorcycle accident lawyer.
Contact a motorcycle accident lawyer in Salt Lake City, UT today to have your case evaluated at no initial charge.
Thanks to Rasmussen & Miner for their insight into personal injury claims and motorcycle accidents involving defective parts.
