Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Greenville

Motorcycle accidents can cause devastating injuries, often requiring extensive medical care and a lengthy recovery. At Ward and Smith, our motorcycle accident lawyers understand the unique challenges faced by riders in Greenville and are ready to advocate for your rights. If someone else’s negligence caused your injuries, we’re here to help you seek justice. Contact us at (919) 827-8475 to schedule your free consultation today.

Building a Strong Motorcycle Accident Claim in Greenville

Motorcycle accidents can lead to serious injuries, costly medical bills, and time away from work. When another driver causes the crash, injured riders have the right to seek compensation. But insurance companies don’t always make that easy. To recover damages, you’ll need to prove the other party was at fault.

Establishing fault in a motorcycle accident case requires more than just pointing fingers. It involves gathering evidence, understanding how North Carolina law applies, and presenting a clear picture of what happened.

Start With the Police Report

One of the first and most important pieces of evidence is the police report. If officers responded to the wreck, they likely documented the scene, took statements, and gave their initial opinion about who was responsible.

While the report isn’t the final word on fault, insurance companies often rely on it during their investigations. Be sure to request a copy as soon as it becomes available. In Greenville, this can be done through the North Carolina Department of Motor Vehicles or directly through the law enforcement agency that handled the scene.

Collect Evidence from the Scene

If you’re physically able after the crash, taking photos and videos can be a huge help later on. Capture the positions of the vehicles, damage to the motorcycle and other car, road conditions, skid marks, traffic signs, and any visible injuries.

Also try to get the names and contact information of any witnesses. Their perspective can help confirm your version of events, especially if the other driver disputes what happened.

Keep your own record of what occurred while the details are fresh. Note the time, location, weather, traffic flow, and anything unusual you noticed before or during the collision.

Look for Video Footage

Dash cams, security cameras, and traffic cameras can provide valuable footage of the accident. If your motorcycle had a camera attached, save the recording right away.

In some cases, nearby businesses or homes may have outdoor cameras that captured the crash. If so, ask if they’re willing to share the footage. It’s best to act quickly, as many systems automatically overwrite recordings within days.

Your attorney may also be able to submit a formal request to obtain video evidence from public or private sources.

Get a Medical Evaluation Right Away

Some injuries from motorcycle accidents don’t show up immediately. Whether it’s internal injuries, head trauma, or soft tissue damage, waiting to see a doctor can hurt your health and your claim.

Insurance companies look at the timing of your medical treatment. Delays can give them a reason to argue your injuries weren’t serious or weren’t caused by the crash. Prompt medical attention creates a clear connection between the wreck and your injuries.

Make sure to follow all treatment plans and attend follow-up visits. Keep copies of all medical records, bills, and prescriptions.

Understand How Driver Negligence Is Proven

To hold someone else responsible for the crash, you need to show they acted negligently. That means they failed to take reasonable care on the road, and their actions directly caused the accident.

Common examples of driver negligence include:

Distracted driving (texting, using GPS)
Speeding or aggressive driving
Failing to yield the right of way
Running a red light or stop sign
Driving under the influence of drugs or alcohol
Making unsafe lane changes

In motorcycle accidents, drivers often claim they “didn’t see” the rider. But failing to notice a motorcyclist before changing lanes or turning is not an excuse. Drivers must be aware of all vehicles around them.

An attorney can help gather the necessary proof to show how the other driver was careless and why they should be held liable.

Use Accident Reconstruction When Necessary

In more complex cases, it may be helpful to bring in an accident reconstruction expert. These professionals analyze evidence from the scene, vehicle damage, and physical injuries to determine how the crash occurred.

They can recreate the wreck using diagrams or computer models, which can be persuasive during negotiations or in court. If fault is being contested, having expert analysis can strengthen your case.

Be Careful with Insurance Companies

After a motorcycle accident, you may be contacted by the other driver’s insurance adjuster. They might seem friendly, but their job is to minimize what the company pays out. Be cautious about giving recorded statements or accepting early settlement offers.

If you’re unsure about what to say or how to respond, speak with a personal injury lawyer first. They can handle communication with insurers and ensure you don’t say anything that could be used against you.

Avoid posting about the accident or your injuries on social media, as insurance companies sometimes monitor online activity to find reasons to deny or reduce claims.

Work with a Greenville Attorney Who Knows Motorcycle Cases

Motorcycle accidents involve unique challenges. Riders are often unfairly blamed, and injuries tend to be more severe than in car crashes. A local attorney who understands the roads, traffic patterns, and insurance practices in Greenville can be a valuable ally.

Your attorney can investigate the crash, preserve evidence, consult with experts, and build a case that clearly shows the other party’s fault. With legal support, you can focus on recovery while your attorney fights for the compensation you need.

Advocate for Your Rights with a Motorcycle Accident Attorney

If you were injured in a motorcycle accident in Greenville, don’t wait to get the help you need. Speaking with an experienced personal injury attorney can make all the difference in holding the right party accountable and protecting your rights. The motorcycle accident attorneys at Ward and Smith are dedicated to fighting for your rights and helping you secure the compensation you need to move forward. Call (919) 827-8475 today to schedule your free consultation, and let us work with you to achieve the justice you deserve.