Motorcycle accidents often lead to severe injuries due to the lack of protection motorcycle riders have compared to those in passenger vehicles. At Calvert Law Firm, we understand the devastating impact these injuries can have on you and your loved ones.
Here are some of the most common injuries sustained in Oklahoma City motorcycle accidents, alongside their symptoms and some potential health complications you should keep in mind:
Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI)
One of the most catastrophic injuries in a motorcycle crash is a
traumatic brain injury (TBI). Even when wearing a helmet, motorcycle riders can sustain significant head injuries due to the forceful impact with other vehicles or the road.
TBIs range from mild concussions to
severe brain damage, leading to long-term complications.
- Symptoms: Depending on the severity, symptoms can include headaches, dizziness, confusion, memory loss, blurred vision, and, in severe cases, loss of consciousness or coma.
- Health Complications: TBIs can lead to chronic issues like cognitive impairment, speech difficulties, emotional instability, and increased risk of seizures. The impact on your quality of life can be profound, often requiring extensive medical care and rehabilitation.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Spinal Cord Injuries are another serious consequence of motorcycle wrecks, often leading to partial or complete paralysis. The lack of protective barriers leaves motorcycle riders vulnerable to spinal damage upon collision or ejection from the motorcycle.
- Symptoms: Immediate symptoms might include severe back pain, numbness, tingling, or loss of sensation in the extremities, and difficulty breathing.
- Health Complications: Spinal cord injuries can result in paralysis (paraplegia or quadriplegia), loss of bladder and bowel control, chronic pain, and respiratory issues. These injuries necessitate long-term medical care and can lead to permanent disability, affecting your ability to work and perform daily activities.
Broken Bones and Fractures
Fractures are common in motorcycle accidents due to the high impact and direct contact with hard surfaces. The most frequently
broken bones include the legs, arms, wrists, and ribs, though virtually any bone can be fractured in a severe motorcycle crash.
- Symptoms: Intense pain, swelling, bruising, and an inability to move the affected limb are typical indicators of a fracture.
- Health Complications: Complicated fractures may require surgery and extensive rehabilitation. Some fractures can lead to long-term issues such as chronic pain, reduced mobility, and arthritis, significantly impacting your daily life and ability to work.
Road Rash
Road rash occurs when a rider’s skin scrapes against the pavement during a motorcycle crash. While it might seem like a minor injury, road rash can be extremely painful and lead to severe complications if not properly treated.
- Symptoms: Road rash presents as painful abrasions, redness, swelling, and sometimes bleeding. In severe cases, the skin can be completely torn away, exposing underlying tissue.
- Health Complications: Without proper care, road rash can lead to infections, permanent scarring, and nerve damage. Deep road rash may require skin grafts and can cause long-lasting pain and sensitivity.
Internal Injuries
Internal injuries are particularly dangerous because they might not be immediately apparent after a motorcycle wreck. The impact of a collision can cause damage to internal organs, leading to life-threatening conditions.
- Symptoms: Symptoms can vary depending on the organ affected but may include abdominal pain, dizziness, shortness of breath, and internal bleeding.
- Health Complications: Internal injuries can result in severe health issues like organ failure, internal bleeding, and long-term damage to vital organs. Immediate medical attention is crucial to prevent fatal outcomes.
Soft Tissue Injuries
Soft tissue injuries, including sprains, strains, and tears of muscles, ligaments, and tendons, are common in motorcycle accidents. While they may not be as visibly severe as broken bones, they can cause significant pain and disability.
- Symptoms: Swelling, bruising, pain, and stiffness are common symptoms of soft tissue injuries. You might also experience a limited range of motion and muscle weakness.
- Health Complications: Soft tissue injuries can lead to chronic pain and may require physical therapy or surgery. If untreated, these injuries can result in long-term functional impairment, affecting your ability to perform daily tasks.
Motorcycle Accident Laws in Oklahoma City
Navigating the aftermath of a motorcycle crash can be overwhelming, especially when dealing with the complexities of Oklahoma’s motorcycle accident laws. At Calvert Law Firm, we’re committed to helping you understand these laws so that you can make informed decisions.
Here are some main laws that can significantly impact your motorcycle accident claim in Oklahoma City.
Helmet Laws in Oklahoma
In Oklahoma, helmet laws are crucial for motorcycle riders, particularly those under 18. According to state law, any motorcycle rider or passenger under the age of 18 must wear a helmet.
While adults 18 and older are not legally required to wear helmets, doing so is strongly recommended. Helmets provide critical protection against severe injuries during a motorcycle crash, significantly reducing the risk of catastrophic injuries or even death.
As Oklahoma City motorcycle accident attorneys, we see firsthand the difference that a helmet can make in a motorcycle accident case. Even if you’re an adult and not legally required to wear one, choosing to wear a helmet can protect your health and strengthen your motorcycle accident claim.
Insurance companies often look at helmet usage when determining fault or the extent of injuries sustained. Ensuring you’re wearing a helmet can be a vital step in
securing fair financial compensation after a motorcycle wreck.
Lane Splitting and Lane Sharing Laws
Lane splitting—when a motorcycle rides between two lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic—is illegal in Oklahoma. The law mandates that motorcycle riders must operate their vehicles in a full lane and are prohibited from passing vehicles within the same lane. However, two motorcycles can legally share a lane, provided they ride side by side.
Understanding lane sharing and splitting laws is crucial for any motorcycle accident case. If an accident occurs while lane splitting, it could complicate your motorcycle accident claim, potentially reducing the compensation you receive.
At Calvert Law Firm, our experienced attorneys will carefully examine the details of your case to ensure that all relevant traffic laws are considered, helping you pursue maximum compensation for your injuries and damages.
Comparative Negligence Rule
Oklahoma follows a comparative negligence rule in personal injury cases, including motorcycle accident lawsuits. This rule means that if you’re found partially at fault for the accident, your compensation could be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you.
For instance, if you’re 20% at fault for the motorcycle crash, your financial compensation would be reduced by 20%.
This law underscores the importance of having an experienced Oklahoma City motorcycle accident lawyer on your side. At Calvert Law Firm, we work diligently to minimize any fault attributed to you, aiming to secure the full compensation you deserve.
We understand how to navigate the intricacies of comparative negligence in motorcycle accident cases and are committed to advocating for your rights throughout the legal process.
Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage
In Oklahoma, motorcycle riders are not required by law to carry Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist (UM/UIM) coverage, but we strongly recommend it.
This type of insurance coverage can provide vital protection if you’re involved in a motorcycle crash with a driver who either lacks sufficient insurance or has no insurance at all. UM/UIM coverage can help cover your medical bills, lost wages, and other expenses when the at-fault driver’s insurance is insufficient.
Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries and significant medical expenses. Without UM/UIM coverage, you could be left facing substantial out-of-pocket costs.
Types of Compensation Available to Motorcycle Accident Victims in Oklahoma
At Calvert Law Firm, we understand that motorcycle accidents can lead to devastating consequences, both physically and financially. When you're involved in a motorcycle crash in Oklahoma City, it's crucial to know the types of compensation available to you.
Our experienced Oklahoma City motorcycle accident lawyers are here to help you navigate through your motorcycle accident claim, ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve. Here are some of the types of compensation available to motorcycle accident victims in Oklahoma.
Medical Expenses
Medical expenses often form the largest component of compensation in motorcycle accident cases. Whether you're dealing with immediate emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, or ongoing treatments for severe injuries, these costs can quickly become overwhelming.
At Calvert Law Firm, we work tirelessly to ensure that all your medical bills are addressed, including future medical care for injuries sustained in the accident. This includes compensation for hospital stays, doctor visits, physical therapy, and even psychological counseling if needed.
Lost Wages
When you're injured in a motorcycle accident, the time spent recovering can lead to a significant loss of income. You may be unable to work for weeks, months, or even longer, depending on the severity of your injuries.
We aim to secure compensation for all lost wages during your recovery period, ensuring that the financial burden of not being able to work doesn’t fall on you or your family. Our legal team will work with you to calculate the full extent of your lost earnings and ensure you receive fair compensation.
Lost Earning Capacity
In cases of catastrophic injuries, the impact on your ability to earn a living can be long-term or permanent. If a motorcycle crash leaves you unable to return to your previous occupation or significantly reduces your earning potential, you may be entitled to compensation for lost earning capacity.
Pain and Suffering
Motorcycle accidents can result in significant physical pain and
suffering. These non-economic damages are often harder to quantify but are just as important in motorcycle accident claims.
We work diligently to ensure that you are compensated for the pain, suffering, and loss of enjoyment of life that results from your injuries.
Property Damage
Your motorcycle and any personal property damaged in the accident are also compensable. The cost of repairing or replacing your motorcycle can be substantial, especially if it was a total loss.
Our legal team will ensure that you receive fair compensation to cover the cost of repairing or replacing your motorcycle, as well as any other personal property that was damaged in the crash.
Punitive Damages
In cases where the accident was caused by particularly reckless or negligent drivers, you may be entitled to punitive damages. These damages are not meant to compensate you for a loss but to punish the negligent driver and deter similar behavior in the future.
While not awarded in every case, our motorcycle accident attorneys will assess whether your case qualifies for punitive damages and pursue them aggressively if applicable.
Wrongful Death Damages
Tragically, some motorcycle accidents result in the death of a loved one. In such cases, wrongful death claims can provide compensation to the surviving family members. This compensation can cover funeral and burial expenses, loss of companionship, and the financial support the deceased would have provided.
At Calvert Law Firm, we understand the profound loss you are experiencing, and our compassionate legal team will handle your wrongful death lawsuit with the sensitivity and dedication it deserves. Visit our page about
Steps to Take After a Motorcycle Accident in Oklahoma City to learn more about how to seek compensation.
Benefits of Hiring an Oklahoma City Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
At Calvert Law Firm, we understand the complexity and emotional toll of motorcycle accident cases. Here are some of the benefits of hiring an experienced Oklahoma City motorcycle accident lawyer from our team to navigate the legal process for you.
Navigation of Complex Legal Processes
Motorcycle accident cases involve intricate legal procedures that can be overwhelming without proper guidance. Our experienced attorneys at Calvert Law Firm know the ins and outs of Oklahoma law, particularly as it pertains to motorcycle accidents.
We handle every aspect of your case, from gathering evidence to negotiating with insurance companies. By hiring us, you can focus on recovering from your injuries while we manage the legal complexities.
Trusting our expertise ensures that all legal documents are filed correctly and on time, significantly increasing your chances of securing the compensation you deserve.
Accurate Assessment of Damages
Understanding the full extent of your losses after a motorcycle accident is crucial. We at Calvert Law Firm meticulously assess all aspects of your case, including medical bills, lost wages, and future earning capacity.
Our Oklahoma City motorcycle accident lawyers work closely with medical experts to evaluate your injuries and calculate a fair compensation amount. This comprehensive approach ensures that no aspect of your suffering is overlooked, and you receive maximum compensation for your motorcycle accident claim.
Aggressive Negotiation with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies often attempt to minimize the payout in motorcycle accident claims. Our legal team is skilled at negotiating with insurance adjusters to ensure you receive a fair settlement.
At Calvert Law Firm, we understand the tactics used by insurance companies to devalue your claim. We counter these tactics with evidence-based arguments that highlight the severity of your injuries and the negligence of the other driver involved.
Our firm is committed to protecting your rights and ensuring that the insurance company does not take advantage of you during this vulnerable time.
Comprehensive Investigation and Evidence Gathering
Motorcycle accidents require thorough investigation to build a strong case. Our attorneys at Calvert Law Firm conduct a detailed analysis of the accident scene, review police reports, and interview witnesses to gather critical evidence.
We also collaborate with accident reconstruction experts to understand how the crash occurred and establish liability. This meticulous approach allows us to build a compelling case that clearly demonstrates the other driver’s negligence, whether they were a distracted driver or someone who violated traffic laws.
Personalized Legal Strategy
Every motorcycle accident case is unique, requiring a tailored approach to achieve the best outcome. At Calvert Law Firm, we develop a personalized legal strategy based on the specifics of your motorcycle accident.
Our Oklahoma City motorcycle accident lawyers consider factors such as the severity of your injuries, the circumstances of the crash, and the insurance policies involved. This customized approach ensures that we address all aspects of your case, whether it involves pursuing a motorcycle accident lawsuit or negotiating a settlement.
Peace of Mind and Support Throughout the Process
Dealing with a motorcycle accident can be stressful, especially when you’re recovering from severe injuries. By hiring Calvert Law Firm, you gain more than just legal representation—you gain a support system. We offer a no-obligation consultation to discuss your case, and we’re here to answer any questions you have throughout the process.
Our commitment is to provide you with peace of mind, knowing that your motorcycle accident case is in capable hands. You can focus on your recovery while we work tirelessly to secure the financial compensation you need to move forward.
Unique Challenges in Motorcycle Accident Cases
At Calvert Law Firm, we understand that motorcycle accident cases are uniquely complex and require specialized attention. Here are some of the main challenges we frequently encounter in motorcycle accident cases.
Bias Against Motorcycle Riders
Motorcycle riders often face a prejudicial bias that unfairly assumes they are reckless or risk-takers. This bias can impact how
police reports are written, how insurance companies assess claims, and even how juries view the case if it goes to trial.
We at Calvert Law Firm know how to counteract this bias by presenting clear, evidence-based arguments that emphasize the facts and dispel these common misconceptions. As your trusted Oklahoma City motorcycle accident attorneys, we work diligently to ensure that you are treated fairly throughout the process.
Severe Injuries and High Medical Costs
Motorcycle crashes frequently result in catastrophic injuries, such as traumatic brain injuries, spinal cord injuries, and severe internal injuries. These injuries often lead to extensive medical bills and long-term care needs.
Unlike car accidents, the lack of protection in motorcycle wrecks makes these injuries more severe. Our team at Calvert Law Firm is dedicated to securing the maximum compensation you need to cover these overwhelming expenses, including ongoing medical care and lost wages due to your injuries.
Complex Liability Issues
Determining liability in a motorcycle accident case can be particularly complex due to factors like multiple vehicles involved, road conditions, or driver negligence.
Additionally, the small size of motorcycles compared to other vehicles often leads to claims that the rider was "invisible" or that they suddenly appeared, making it difficult to assign fault.
Our OKC motorcycle accident lawyers will thoroughly investigate all aspects of your case, ensuring that the negligent driver or other responsible parties are held accountable for their actions.
Insurance Company Tactics
Insurance adjusters often employ tactics to minimize payouts on motorcycle injury claims. They may argue that the motorcyclist was partially or wholly at fault, or they might undervalue the severity of your injuries.
At Calvert Law Firm, we are well-versed in handling insurance adjusters who may try to exploit these tactics. We fight tirelessly to ensure that your insurance claim reflects the true extent of your injuries and the financial compensation you deserve.
Navigating Oklahoma’s Traffic Laws
Oklahoma motorcycle accidents occur within the framework of state-specific traffic laws, which can be intricate and challenging to navigate. These laws include helmet regulations, lane-splitting rules, and specific
rights-of-way for motorcycle riders.
Any misstep in understanding or applying these laws can jeopardize your motorcycle accident case. As experienced Oklahoma City motorcycle accident attorneys, we guide you through the complexities of Oklahoma law to strengthen your personal injury claim and achieve the best possible outcome.
Long-Term Impact on Quality of Life
Motorcycle accident injuries often have long-term effects that extend beyond physical pain. Severe injuries can lead to lost earning capacity, ongoing medical expenses, and a diminished quality of life.
Whether you’re facing lifelong disabilities or the trauma of a wrongful death claim for a family member, our law firm is committed to pursuing fair compensation that addresses both current and future needs. We work closely with medical professionals and economists to accurately assess and present the full scope of your losses.
Frequently Asked Questions on Motorcycle Accident Cases in Oklahoma City
How much can I expect to receive in a motorcycle accident settlement?
The amount of compensation you can expect to receive in a motorcycle accident settlement will depend on several factors, including the severity of your injuries, your lost wages, and the degree of fault in the accident. It's important to work with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney who can help you assess the value of your case and negotiate a fair settlement.
Can I file a motorcycle accident claim if I was partially at fault?
In Oklahoma, the comparative negligence law allows you to recover damages even if you were partially at fault for the accident. However, your compensation will be reduced in proportion to your degree of fault.
How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident lawsuit in Oklahoma?
The statute of limitations for personal injury cases in Oklahoma is two years from the date of the accident. If you fail to file your lawsuit within this time frame, you may lose your right to recover damages.
How long does it take to settle a motorcycle accident case?
The time it takes to settle a motorcycle accident case can vary depending on the complexity of the case and the willingness of the insurance company to negotiate. In some cases, a settlement can be reached relatively quickly, while others may require litigation.
Do I need a lawyer to handle my motorcycle accident case?
While it is possible to handle a motorcycle accident case on your own, it is highly recommended that you consult with an experienced attorney. An attorney can help you navigate the legal process, protect your rights, and maximize your compensation.
How much will it cost to hire a motorcycle accident lawyer?
At Calvert Law Firm, we typically work on a contingency fee basis. This means that we only charge a fee if we recover compensation for you. Our fee is typically a percentage of the settlement or verdict.
What should I do if the insurance company denies my motorcycle accident claim?
If the insurance company denies your motorcycle accident claim, it's important to consult with an attorney. An attorney can help you understand your rights, and pursue a lawsuit if necessary.