Durham Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

An Honest Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Durham, NC

If you were injured in a motorcycle accident due to another driver’s negligence, a Durham motorcycle accident lawyer can investigate what happened and pursue compensation through an insurance claim or litigation in court.

The Law Office of Jacob Goad represents injured clients across North Carolina and can help document your injuries and other losses and help you seek justice for the full extent of your injuries.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

A motorcycle provides less physical protection than a passenger vehicle, which can make injuries much more catastrophic. Riders can be thrown from the bike, leading to broken bones, road rash, spinal cord injuries, and serious head trauma. These injuries may result in Catastrophic Injury and require extensive medical care.

In 2024, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration reported 6,228 motorcyclists killed across the nation. North Carolina was one of the top seven states in the country with the most motorcycle fatalities, with 212 deaths reported.

These collisions can happen in many ways. Motorcycles can be difficult to see on the roadways, which can lead cars to turn into the motorcycle’s path or change lanes, cutting cyclists off. Some crashes are caused by road conditions, such as debris, construction zones, or other roadway hazards, including a Construction Accident.

The circumstances surrounding the crash matter when determining responsibility and compensation. A motorcycle accident claim includes an investigation of the police report, photographic evidence, vehicle damage, and other circumstances surrounding the cause of the accident.

Damages You Can Recover After a Motorcycle Accident

A motorcycle accident claim should seek compensation for all damages. Potential recovery could include:

• Emergency medical treatment
• Hospital and physician bills
• Prescription medication
• Physical therapy and rehabilitation
• Property damages
• Lost wages
• Pain and suffering

A thorough evaluation should include both current and anticipated losses. Insurance coverage can also add a layer of complexity to the case. The North Carolina Department of Insurance identifies uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage as available protection when an at-fault driver doesn’t have sufficient coverage for the extent of the damages.

What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident

The actions you take after a motorcycle accident are important to protecting your health and your case. If you are physically able to do so, the first step is to seek medical attention. Even if your symptoms seem minor or manageable, serious injuries, such as head trauma or internal bleeding, may not be immediately obvious. Similar concerns can arise in cases involving Nursing Home Abuse, Medical Malpractice, or a Pedestrian Accident.

Contact the Durham Police Department at 919-560-4427 or call 911 to report the accident. Law enforcement will begin an investigation of the accident, collect evidence, and create an official report of the accident.

If possible, take photographs of the motorcycle, the scene of the accident, roadway conditions, and any visible injuries. Gather witness contact information to use for additional evidence later on in Durham.

Be sure to keep medical records and receipts and follow your doctor’s orders for treatment. It is also important not to post about your injuries on social media or give a statement to the insurance company without first speaking with a Durham motorcycle accident attorney who can guide you through the legal process and advise you on how to communicate with insurers.

Why Hire a Trusted Motorcycle Accident Lawyer From the Law Office of Jacob Goad?

When you hire a motorcycle accident lawyer from the Law Office of Jacob Goad, you are gaining an experienced advocate who can walk you through the legal process of seeking compensation to aid in your recovery. We begin by investigating the crash and reviewing all evidence available. Depending on the circumstances, related claims may involve a Truck Accident, Workers’ Compensation, Car Accident, Wrongful Death, or Traumatic Brain Injury.

Once we have identified the responsible party, we can review insurance coverage and how the policy applies to your circumstances. We can also calculate lost income, ongoing treatment needs, and other consequences of the accident. If a settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, our Auburn motorcycle accident lawyer can take your case to court to litigate on your behalf.

Jacob Goad is ready to answer any questions you may have about the process and aggressively advocate for your needs. Mr. Goad has been recognized as a Super Lawyer and has earned many 5-star reviews.* The firm has previously secured multi-million-dollar settlements for their clients.**  

FAQs

Is NC a No-Fault State for Accidents?

No, NC is not a no-fault state for motorcycle vehicle accidents. An injured person can seek compensation from the negligent party after an accident. Insurance coverage, fault, and contributory negligence can all affect the amount of compensation recovered. North Carolina requires drivers to carry insurance. However, 11.8% of drivers in the state were uninsured, as of 2023. Your attorney can advise you on next steps if an uninsured driver causes you injury.

What Should You Not Say to an Injury Lawyer?

Some of the things you should not say to an injury lawyer are exaggerations, speculations, or lies about the facts of your injury case. Your attorney needs the full story to prepare the strongest case for you. An experienced lawyer can handle the difficult facts and provide you with realistic advice and legal options for moving forward.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Settlement From a Motorcycle Accident?

How long it takes to get a settlement from a motorcycle accident depends on the seriousness of the injuries, the treatment necessary, and if insurance coverage or fault is contested. It is important to understand the full scope of the losses prior to seeking compensation. Negotiations can also take time. When you meet with your Durham motorcycle accident lawyer for your initial consultation, you can get a better understanding of the expected timeline.

What Are the Motorcycle Laws in North Carolina?

Motorcycle laws in North Carolina require operators to have the appropriate licensure or permit to operate the vehicle. Both operators and passengers must wear a helmet. Operators are also required to carry insurance and follow all traffic laws that apply to full-size vehicles, such as obeying speed limits, not driving impaired, and other rules for roadway usage.

Contact the Law Office of Jacob Goad Today

A motorcycle collision can leave you with serious injuries and feeling overwhelmed about what steps to take next. The Law Office of Jacob Goad can help you determine the value of your claim and guide you through the process of seeking justice for your accident.

Jacob Goad works directly with clients, speaks fluent Spanish, and is prepared to take your case to court, if necessary. Contact us today to learn more about your legal options and how to move forward with confidence.

*Awards and recognition are not guarantees of future results. Selection criteria vary by organization.

**Past results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Every case is different and must be evaluated on its own merits.