Myrtle Beach, South Carolina, is well-known for its vibrant recreational scene, and for many, exploring the open roads on a motorcycle is a favorite activity. Whether you’re joining the excitement of Myrtle Beach Bike Week or just enjoying a weekend ride along the scenic coastline, motorcycles are a familiar sight on the town’s streets.
However, with the thrill of the ride comes an undeniable risk—motorcycle accidents are a reality that can lead to significant injuries and costly medical treatments. It’s essential to be aware of the most common injuries motorcyclists face and know what steps to take in the aftermath of an accident to protect your health and legal rights.
If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident and need professional legal guidance, contact our experienced Myrtle Beach motorcycle accident attorneys for a free consultation.
How Our Myrtle Beach Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Support You?
If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident in Myrtle Beach, the dedicated motorcycle accident attorneys at the CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm can provide essential support to protect your rights and help you pursue compensation.
Here’s how we can assist:
- Thorough Accident Analysis: Our legal team will conduct an in-depth investigation into your accident, gathering all the necessary evidence, interviewing witnesses, and securing any available surveillance footage to piece together the events leading up to the crash.
- Establishing Fault and Liability: We work meticulously to determine who was at fault and build a strong case to establish liability, whether it involves another driver, a vehicle manufacturer, or a government entity responsible for road maintenance.
- Maximizing Your Insurance Lawsuits: Our lawyers will identify all potential insurance policies that could provide compensation for your injuries and losses. We’ll help you navigate the complexities of dealing with insurance companies to ensure you receive the benefits you deserve.
- Access to Quality Medical Care: We can assist you in obtaining the medical treatment you need and ensure that your injuries are well-documented to support your case.
- Accurate Valuation of Your Losses: To ensure you obtain the most compensation possible, our experts will meticulously analyze the exact extent of your past, present, and future losses, including medical costs, missed income, suffering and pain, and other damages.
- Engaging with Insurance Companies: We argue for a just settlement that meets your demands, negotiate with insurance companies, and draft and issue demand letters on your behalf.
- Litigation Support: Our skilled trial lawyers are ready to take your case to court if a just settlement cannot be reached. We will stand by you every step of the way as we battle tenaciously to get the money you are entitled to.
- Guidance and Compassion: From your initial consultation to resolving your case, our team is committed to offering you clear guidance, compassionate support, and a strong legal strategy tailored to your unique situation.
What Sets Our Myrtle Beach Motorcycle Accident Law Firm Apart?
At the CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm, our dedicated team of motorcycle accident attorneys in Myrtle Beach is here to fight for your rights and help you pursue the full settlement you deserve. We understand the challenges you face after an accident, and our goal is to ease your burden by handling every aspect of your case so you can focus on your recovery.
- Personalized Attention: We pride ourselves on building genuine relationships with our clients, treating each case with the individual care and attention it deserves. By taking the time to understand your unique circumstances, we can develop a tailored legal strategy that aligns with your specific needs and goals.
- Proven Legal Experience: Our team has extensive experience across various personal injury cases. This wealth of knowledge allows us to navigate the complexities of motorcycle accident claims, anticipate challenges, and advocate effectively on your behalf.
- Your Local Advocates: As a law firm deeply rooted in the Myrtle Beach community, we’re more than just your attorneys—your neighbors. Our commitment to serving our community drives us to work tirelessly for the people who trust us to represent them. We take pride in standing by your side, offering the guidance and support you need to achieve a successful outcome.
Leading Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Myrtle Beach, SC
Motorcycle accidents in Myrtle Beach are often the result of other drivers’ carelessness or failure to share the road responsibly. In many instances, motorcycle riders who suffer injuries due to another driver’s negligence have the right to pursue compensation for their damages.
Distracted Driving
One of the most frequent causes of motorcycle accidents is distracted driving. Drivers who are busy texting, eating, adjusting their GPS, or simply not paying full attention to the road can easily overlook motorcyclists, who are less visible than larger vehicles. Even a momentary lapse in concentration can lead to a devastating collision, putting motorcyclists at significant risk.
Failure to Share the Road
Motorcycle riders have the same rights and responsibilities as any other vehicle on the road, yet many drivers fail to acknowledge this. Issues such as not allowing enough space for motorcycles, cutting them off, or tailgating can create dangerous situations. Motorcyclists need the full lane to maneuver safely, and when other drivers fail to respect this, accidents can happen quickly.
Driving Under the Influence
Not only is it forbidden to operate a car while under the influence of alcohol or drugs, but it is also quite risky. Drunk or intoxicated drivers are more likely to crash into a motorcycle because they react more slowly, make poorer decisions, and have less coordination. Holding intoxicated drivers responsible for their behavior is crucial when they cause harm to motorcyclists since they frequently behave recklessly and can be prevented.
Fatigue Behind the Wheel
Fatigued driving is another significant factor in motorcycle accidents. When a driver is excessively tired, their ability to stay alert, react swiftly, and make sound decisions is compromised. This can lead to delayed responses or even falling asleep at the wheel, making the driver a hazard to everyone, especially motorcyclists who rely on other drivers’ awareness to stay safe.
Excessive Speed
Speeding is a contributing factor in many motorcycle accidents and often makes a bad situation worse. When drivers exceed the speed limit, they have less time to react to obstacles, and the force of impact during a collision is much greater. This results in more severe injuries for the motorcyclist, who has far less protection than someone inside a car. High-speed collisions frequently lead to catastrophic outcomes, highlighting the need for drivers to respect speed limits and share the road safely.
Motorcycle Accident Injuries in Michigan
Motorcyclists are all too aware of the risks they encounter every time they hit the road. They understand that even a minor lapse in another driver’s attention can lead to life-changing consequences instantly.
Motorcycle accidents often result in devastating injuries, such as:
- Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs) and other head trauma
- Spinal cord damage, leading to partial or full paralysis
- Severe back injuries affecting movement and quality of life
- Nerve damage, potentially causing chronic pain or loss of sensation
- Loss of sensation or movement in the limbs
- Injuries to spinal discs leading to chronic pain or immobility
- Neck injuries, including whiplash and ongoing pain
- Deep lacerations and cuts
- Road rash, with severe friction burns from contact with the pavement
- Fractured ribs and internal injuries like punctured lungs
- Traumatic limb amputations
- Internal bleeding and organ damage
These serious injuries not only impact a rider’s health but also result in skyrocketing medical expenses, prolonged absence from work, and significant changes to their lifestyle. The extent and severity of these injuries play a crucial role in determining the compensation available, as greater injuries often lead to higher settlements to cover medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages.
Essential Steps to Follow After a Motorcycle Accident
Experiencing a motorcycle accident can be overwhelming, but knowing how to handle the aftermath can significantly protect your rights and ensure your safety.
Here’s a comprehensive guide on the steps to take:
- Ensure Immediate Safety: If you can, move yourself and your motorcycle to a safe area away from traffic to avoid further injury. If you’re immobilized, signal others to alert oncoming vehicles and prevent additional accidents.
- Assess Injuries: Quickly check yourself and others involved for any injuries. Remember that certain injuries, like internal trauma or concussions, may not be immediately obvious, so don’t dismiss any signs of discomfort or dizziness.
- Call Emergency Services: Dial 911 promptly to report the accident, regardless of its severity. This ensures police and medical personnel are on-site to provide assistance and create an official accident report, which will be vital for any future legal or insurance claims.
- Gather Information from All Parties: Exchange contact details, insurance information, and license plate numbers with all other drivers involved. Stay calm and avoid discussing the accident or admitting fault.
- Capture Evidence at the Scene: Use your phone to take photos of the accident site, damaged vehicles, road conditions, traffic signs, skid marks, and any visible injuries. Collect contact details from any witnesses who may have seen the accident.
- Seek Immediate Medical Attention: Even if you feel fine, visit a healthcare professional or an emergency room as soon as possible. Some injuries can manifest hours or days later, and a medical evaluation ensures any potential injuries are documented.
- Notify Your Insurance Provider: Report the accident to your insurance company, but stick to the basic facts. Avoid giving detailed statements, admitting fault, or speculating about the cause until you consult a legal professional.
- Consult a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer: Before making any statements or accepting settlements from insurance companies, speak with a skilled motorcycle accident attorney. They can navigate the legal process on your behalf, safeguard your rights, and help you pursue the compensation you deserve for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Compensation for Your Myrtle Beach Motorcycle Accident
After a motorcycle accident in Myrtle Beach, it’s essential to identify all the losses and expenses incurred due to the crash. At the CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm, we work diligently to gather evidence and documentation to establish a fair settlement range for your case.
We review recent jury verdicts from across South Carolina and assess where the claim can be filed, which helps determine if the insurance company offers a reasonable settlement. Calculating this settlement range is critical before proceeding with a claim or lawsuit.
Here are some of the common types of damages you may be entitled to recover following a motorcycle accident:
- Medical Payments: This includes all costs of your medical care, such as emergency transportation, hospital stays, surgeries, medications, and ongoing treatments like physical therapy or rehabilitation.
- Future Medical Costs: If your injuries require long-term care or future medical treatment, these estimated costs are factored into your claim to ensure you receive adequate compensation for ongoing care.
- Lost Wages: If you’ve had to take time off work due to your injuries, you can claim compensation for your lost income during your recovery.
- Reduced Earning Capacity: If your injuries prevent you from returning to your previous job or affect your living ability, you can seek compensation for losing your future earning potential.
- Other Accident-Related Expenses: This may include costs such as transportation to medical appointments, modifications to your home, or other out-of-pocket expenses related to your recovery.
- Pain and Suffering: Beyond financial losses, you may be entitled to compensation for the physical pain, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life caused by the accident.
- Non-Economic Damages: These can include losses that don’t have a clear monetary value, such as emotional suffering, loss of companionship, and mental anguish.
In addition to representing injured individuals, we also handle wrongful death claims. If your loved one tragically lost their life due to a motorcycle accident, we can help your family seek compensation under South Carolina law. This may include coverage for funeral expenses, medical bills, lost future income, and other non-economic damages associated with your loved one’s passing.
Our experienced Myrtle Beach motorcycle accident attorneys are here to provide compassionate legal guidance during this difficult time.
Complying with Motorcycle and Traffic Regulations in Myrtle Beach, SC
The thrill of riding a motorcycle offers a sense of freedom, but it’s essential to respect and follow the laws that ensure everyone’s safety on the road. Here’s a breakdown of the fundamental traffic rules and regulations every motorcyclist should adhere to in South Carolina:
- License Plate Regulations: According to South Carolina law, all motorcycles must display a valid license plate on the back of the bike. This plate must be securely attached and positioned horizontally. If you have a vertical mount, that’s acceptable, too, as long as it’s at least 12 inches above the ground and clearly visible with no obstructions.
- Lighting Requirements: Motorcycles must be equipped with proper lighting for safety. This includes a white headlight that can be seen from at least 500 feet ahead and a red tail light or reflector that is visible from at least 500 feet behind. These lights are vital to ensure you’re visible to other drivers, especially at night or in low-visibility conditions.
- Riding Position: Always sit facing forward on your motorcycle with one leg on each side. Maintaining full control of your bike is crucial, so avoid carrying anything that restricts your ability to use both hands on the handlebars.
- Lane Regulations: Motorcyclists are entitled to the full width of a lane, just like any other vehicle. However, lane splitting—riding between lanes or overtaking other vehicles within the same lane—is strictly prohibited in South Carolina. Stay in your lane, and don’t attempt to weave through traffic.
- Safety Gear: All motorcycles must have footrests for passengers and at least one rearview mirror. Additionally, any rider or passenger under the age of 21 is required by law to wear a helmet and protective eyewear, such as goggles or a face shield. Although riders over 21 aren’t legally obligated to wear helmets, doing so is strongly recommended to enhance safety and reduce the risk of serious injury in the event of an accident.
By following these laws, you not only protect yourself but also contribute to a safer riding environment for everyone. Always be aware of your surroundings, respect other road users, and prioritize safety while enjoying the open road.
Motorcycle Insurance Options in Myrtle Beach, SC
As a motorcyclist in Myrtle Beach, SC, it’s crucial to understand the different insurance coverage available to protect yourself on the road.
Here’s an overview of the key policies every rider should consider:
Mandatory Liability Insurance:
As South Carolina law requires, liability insurance covers expenses if you’re responsible for causing injury or property damage to others in an accident. However, remember that this coverage does not pay for your injuries or repairs to your motorcycle.
Collision Coverage:
This insurance helps cover repairing or replacing your motorcycle if it’s damaged in a crash, regardless of who was at fault. If you’ve invested significantly in your bike, collision coverage can be a lifesaver, helping you manage repair costs and get back on the road quickly.
Comprehensive Insurance:
Often referred to as “non-collision” coverage, comprehensive insurance protects your motorcycle from damage not related to a crash, such as theft, vandalism, fire, or weather-related incidents. It offers peace of mind knowing your bike is safeguarded against unexpected events.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) Protection:
Unfortunately, not all drivers have sufficient insurance coverage, leaving you in a tough spot if you’re involved in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver. UM coverage helps if the at-fault driver has no insurance, while UIM coverage steps in when their policy doesn’t cover all your expenses. UM coverage is mandatory in South Carolina, but UIM coverage is optional—though it’s highly recommended, as it provides an extra layer of protection when needed.
Choosing the right insurance policy can be a game-changer in ensuring you’re financially protected after a motorcycle accident. At the CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm, our experienced motorcycle accident attorneys can guide you through understanding your policy and the at-fault driver’s insurance and help you navigate the claims process to secure the compensation you deserve.
Talk to Our Experts About Your Motorcycle Accident Claims!
The CEO Lawyer Personal Injury Law Firm support motorcycle accident victims and their families every step of the way. Our team offers complimentary, no-obligation consultations to discuss your case, understand your rights, and outline the best course of action. With our contingency fee structure, you won’t pay any legal fees unless we secure compensation for you.
Contact our Myrtle Beach office today to take the first step towards justice. Call us at (864) 664-3865 or use our online form to schedule your free case evaluation. Our dedicated team is ready to assist you whenever you need us.