Left-Turn Motorcycle Accident in Greenville, SC

Were you hurt in a left-turn motorcycle accident in Greenville, South Carolina? If so, you could be facing painful injuries and wondering how you will pay your medical bills and other expenses, especially while you’re unable to work. But if someone else caused the accident, you shouldn’t be left to pay for their negligence. The Melonakos Law Firm is ready to fight so that you aren’t.

We offer experience, compassion, dedication, and aggressive representation to individuals injured through the negligence of others. We know how devastating motorcycle accidents can be, and we firmly believe in making those responsible pay for the damage they’ve caused. Let us investigate the crash, build a strong case for compensation, and negotiate forcefully on your behalf, all without upfront cost to you.

Just reach out to us today to get started with a free consultation with a left-turn motorcycle accident attorney in Greenville, SC.

Understanding Left-Turn Motorcycle Accidents in Greenville, SC

Motorcyclists are at increased risk when making left turns and when encountering other vehicles turning left because:

• Motorcycles are not as visible to drivers or pedestrians.
• Other drivers may underestimate the speed of an oncoming motorcycle.
• Left turns necessarily involve passing through oncoming traffic lanes.
• Motorcycles are often less stable when compared to four-wheel vehicles.

In many left-turn accidents involving motorcyclists, another driver without the right-of-way makes a left turn into the path of an oncoming motorcycle. The motorcyclist could slam into the side of the turning vehicle or lose control of the bike and lay it down trying to avoid a collision.

Who Can Be Held Liable for Left-Turn Motorcycle Accidents in Greenville?

Generally speaking, the person determined to be at fault for causing an accident is liable for compensating the people they injure. Several parties can share liability for a left turn motorcycle accident, such as:

• Drivers who speed, become distracted, or don’t give motorcycles enough space when turning
• Government entities that do not design or maintain safe roads
• Companies that manufacture defective vehicle components
• Other road users whose behavior contributes to accidents

Injuries and Compensation After a Left-Turn Motorcycle Accident

Left-turn motorcycle accidents can have severe consequences, including the following common injuries:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) – These injuries can cause long-term health consequences like memory loss or cognitive impairment.
• Spinal cord injuries – Damage to the spinal cord can lead to loss of mobility, paralysis, and reduced quality of life.
• Broken bones – Motorcycle riders are at higher risk of breaking bones due to their relative lack of protection.
• Internal injuries – The force of the crash can cause organ damage, bleeding, and other internal injuries that may not show immediate symptoms.
• Back and neck injuries – The structures of the neck and back are particularly susceptible to injury in motorcycle crashes.
• Joint damage – Knees, ankles, hips, shoulders, and other joints can sustain severe injuries in a left-turn motorcycle crash.
• Road rash – Skidding across the pavement causes cuts, scrapes, and bruises, known as road rash.

In addition to physical injuries, motorcycle accidents can be traumatic and have emotional consequences, including anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).

People injured in motorcycle accidents can seek compensation for a wide variety of losses from the people who caused them, including the following:

• Medical bills
• Lost wages
• Diminished future earning capacity
• Pain and suffering
• Reduced quality of life
• Damage to the motorcycle and other property

How Long Do I Have to File a Left-Turn Motorcycle Accident Claim in Greenville, SC?

The time limit established by the statute of limitations for personal injury lawsuits in South Carolina is three years from the date of the accident. Failing to file your claim within the time limit will likely result in you losing your right to seek compensation for your injuries and losses. Your best course of action is to contact our motorcycle accident lawyers as soon as possible so we can begin building a solid case for you.

What to Do After a Left-Turn Motorcycle Accident

Taking the right steps to protect your legal rights will increase your chance of recovering your health and the compensation you deserve after an accident. Here are some steps to take if you’ve been involved in a left-turn motorcycle accident.

• Contact law enforcement. Call 911. The police will secure the scene and prepare an accident report that can be essential to your claim.
• Seek medical attention. You may not feel like you’ve suffered any serious injuries at first, but some injuries go undetected. Getting medical care is essential to your health as well as the strength of your eventual injury claim.
• Gather evidence. If you can, photograph the accident scene, including damage to your motorcycle and the other vehicle. Obtain the contact information of any witnesses as well.
• Contact an experienced personal injury attorney. A personal injury attorney from The Melonakos Law Firm can pursue compensation for you and protect your legal rights. Without a lawyer, you risk leaving money on the table and ending up without the compensation you need to rebuild your life.

Be cautious when dealing with insurance companies. Insurance companies want to settle quickly and cheaply, and that means getting you to accept less than you deserve. The sooner you get legal help, the better. Never sign anything or give a recorded statement without first consulting with an attorney.

How to Avoid Left-Turn Motorcycle Accidents in Greenville

Following these tips can prevent left-turn accidents, whether you’re an experienced rider or a beginner:

• Plan ahead. Before getting on the road, familiarize yourself with your route and identify areas where you may need to make a left turn and where other vehicles could make left turns across your path.
• Increase visibility. Wear bright, reflective clothing and equip your motorcycle with high-visibility lights.
• Use signals. Use your turn signals to communicate with other motorists when driving.
• Slow down. Approach intersections cautiously when making left turns so you will have more time to react to sudden movements from other drivers.
• Remain alert at all times. Watch out for other motorists and their movements. Keep your eyes on the road and avoid distractions.
• Be predictable. Avoid sudden movements that other drivers might not be prepared for. Making smooth and predictable turns on a motorcycle is essential to avoiding accidents.

Other motorists play a key role in reducing motorcycle accidents involving left turns. Drivers of cars and trucks should be on alert for oncoming motorcycles when making a left turn. A split second of added concentration could make the difference between life and death for an oncoming biker.

Talk to Our Experienced Greenville Left-Turn Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Today

At The Melonakos Law Firm, we focus on personal injury claims, provide our clients with individualized attention, and fight hard for the maximum compensation in every case we pursue. We want to hear from you today if you were hurt in a left-turn motorcycle accident someone else caused.

Contact us for your free initial consultation with a Greenville left-turn motorcycle accident lawyer.