Hit-and-Run Motorcycle Accidents in Personal Injury Claims

The law in Ohio warns motorists about failing to stop after an accident or a collision. Escaping an accident scene can lead to a first-degree misdemeanor or a felony if the driver injures someone or the victim dies from their injuries.

Definitively, a hit-and-run accident happens when any driver intentionally leaves the scene of an accident without providing any contact information. Even if a driver damages a vehicle when no one is around, they are obligated to leave accident information and contact details.

Motorcycle riders are more vulnerable to hit-and-runs, as they tend to take on a more carefree attitude when riding, making it harder for other drivers to notice them or spot them. Therefore, it’s imperative that you speak to an Ohio car accident lawyer if you’ve been involved in this type of accident.

Work with the Authorities and Legal Professionals

If your motorcycle is struck and the driver leaves the accident scene, contact the police and do the following if you haven’t been seriously injured:

• Provide as many details about the getaway vehicle as possible, including make, model, and, if possible, license plate number.
• Look for possible witnesses and obtain their names and phone numbers.
• Before leaving the scene, write the time and date of the accident and take pictures of the crash scene and your motorcycle.

If you can’t do this, see if you can get someone to take the above steps or explain your situation to an attorney who can gather the required evidence.

If you didn’t witness the accident, and your motorcycle was hit when you were not there, provide the police with damage details, estimated time, and location.

Getting the details is important when you work with a motorcycle accident attorney, as some people try to file false claims. Therefore, you need to make sure you record as much as you can about the incident if you wish to proceed with a lawsuit.

Get Medical Care Right Away

Also, if you’re injured, seek medical attention the same day. You’ll need this information, as well, if you’re serious about submitting a personal injury claim. Motorcyclists can get seriously injured in accidents, so medical care is usually required.

Even if you can walk away from the crash, visit a doctor to make sure you’re okay. Symptoms can develop after this type of mishap.

Common Injuries

Some of the common injuries include:

• Road rash – a skin abrasion that results from skidding bodily over the pavement after a crash
• Neck injuries
• Spinal injuries, which often lead to a partial or permanent disability
• Injuries to the lower extremities
• Fractures
• Internal bleeding, often resulting from blunt force trauma, may also affect the spleen, liver, kidney/bladder, or small or large intestine.

Common Reasons Why Motorcycle Drivers Get Struck in Hit-and-Runs

Motorcycle accidents resulting from hit-and-runs often occur for the following reasons:

• The other driver is tailgating or is driving too aggressively. They may also be exhibiting road rage or antagonizing the motorbike rider.
• The driver does not see the motorcycle driver because of poor visibility.
• The other motorist is distracted or texting while driving.
• The other party was drunk or high when they hit the motorcyclist.
• The driver fails to see the motorcycle rider in their rearview mirror or does not notice them as they’re passing.

Get Advice from an Ohio Personal Injury Attorney

Have you suffered injuries in a motorcycle hit-and-run? If so, speak to a motorcycle accident lawyer without delay. Contact Dyer, Garofalo, Mann & Schultz for a no-obligation consultation today.

Doug Mann

Before establishing Dyer, Garofalo, Mann & Schultz L.P.A., Doug Mann, a top Ohio Injury Attorney served as a bodily injury claims adjuster at a major insurance firm. With over 40+ years of experience, Doug’s background has proven invaluable in securing maximum cash settlements for his clients swiftly. Since leaving the insurance industry, Doug has devoted his entire legal career to assisting injured clients during their times of greatest need.

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