Practice Areas

Motorcycle Accidents

More than 80 percent of all reported motorcycle accidents result in injury or death. On average, approximately 2,000 motorcyclists are killed and more than 50,000 are injured in traffic crashes each year. Motorcyclists are about 16 times more likely than those in passenger cars to die in a motor vehicle crash, and they're about 3 times more likely to be injured. Head injury is the leading cause of death and serious injury in motorcycle crashes.

Several factors can contribute to a motorcycle crash. Approximately one-third of multi-vehicle motorcycle crashes result from a motorist turning into the path of the motorcycle. Many automobile and tractor trailer truck drivers fail to look and see approaching motorcyclists. We have handled many cases involving obstructions of automobile and tractor trailer truck driver’s view of motorcyclists. Utility signs may obstruct a driver’s sight triangle blocking the motorcycle from view. The Highway Department’s (now officially known as the South Carolina Department of Transportation, SCDOT) failure to cut weeds may also cause these accidents. Utility companies and the SCDOT may be liable in addition to the at fault driver.

Low road shoulders and road construction (particularly uneven lanes) can also cause motorcycle and automobile accidents. It is important to take pictures of the scene, any pavement edge drops, skid marks or other evidence at the scene as soon as possible, if not immediately. Many times the SCDOT will repair the defective road or shoulder condition shortly after an accident. Pavement or road shoulder edge drops should be measured and photographed with a tape measure showing the measurement.

Unfortunately, even if you practice motorcycle safety, you may be involved in an accident because of the negligence of another driver. If that's the case, you'll need a lawyer who understands motorcycle accidents, knows motorcycle law, and who is willing to fight for your rights.

If you, or someone you care about, have been the unfortunate victim of a motorcycle accident, call Standeffer & Harbin, LLP today at 1-800-INJURED for a free no obligation consultation. Let Standeffer & Harbin, LLP be your team of tough, smart attorneys who will fight for your rights.