Columbus Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Fighting for You After a Serious Injury

You don’t need a law firm to tell you about the dangers of riding a motorcycle on Ohio roadways. Often other motorists don’t account for motorcyclists and fail to be careful and diligent. Without a four-wheel vehicle’s cocoon of metal for protection, motorcycle accidents can cause particularly catastrophic injuries or death. Motorcycles present an unusually small profile in traffic, and vehicle drivers are not always looking out for them as they should be.

If you or your loved one was recently in a motorcycle accident in Ohio, our Columbus motorcycle accident attorneys can help you fight for compensation to help pay your medical bills and more. 

Ohio Motorcycle Accident Statistics

The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration provides the following somber facts in regards to motorcycle accidents on Ohio roadways:

• There were 5,172 motorcyclists killed in motor vehicle traffic crashes in 2017 (the latest data available).
• Two-wheeled motorcycles accounted for 91 percent of all motorcycles in fatal crashes.
• Motorcyclists accounted for 14 percent of all traffic fatalities and 17 percent of all occupant (driver and passenger) fatalities.
• Of the 5,172 motorcyclists killed in traffic crashes, 94 percent (4,885) were riders and six percent (287) were passengers.

If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident, the Columbus motorcycle accident attorneys at Malek & Malek Law Firm can help. We fight tirelessly for you after an accident and take our job as your advocate very seriously.

How a Negative Perception of Motorcyclists Can Impact Your Claim

One of the most challenging aspects of a motorcycle accident personal injury claim is overcoming the bias and prejudice against motorcyclists. Many professionals have a personal bias or preconceived judgment about the risk motorcyclists accept by just getting on their bikes. 

Juries and insurance adjusters are not immune to these prejudices and as your Columbus motorcycle accident attorneys, we will work to combat any negative emotions associated with your claim to ensure you get a fair settlement for your resulting injuries. 

Most Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents on Ohio Roadways

The most common type of motorcycle accident is car vs. motorcycle. These are also among the most dangerous type of accidents motorcyclists can face. Other common motorcycle accident causes that we see on Ohio roadways include: 

• Car or truck doesn’t see the motorcyclists and moves into their right of way
• A driver is distracted and swerves into another traveling lane
• Vehicles traveling at a high rate of speed
• Sudden stops when traveling at a high rate of speed on the highway
• A part on the motorcycle fails while in use (defective product)
• Being struck by flying objects (things people throw out of windows) and debris in the roadways
• Road defects like potholes, sharp turns, and construction zones create dangerous driving situations
• Severe weather that limits visibility or makes road conditions dangerous

In each of these instances, motorcyclists and their passengers face an increased risk of catastrophic injury or death. Without an exterior frame of a vehicle to shield them from hazards on the road, motorcyclists often face crush injuries, severe road rash, and head injuries.

FAQs Answered by Our Columbus Motorcycle Accident Attorneys

Are Motorcycle Helmets Required in Ohio?

Yes, helmets are required by law for motorcycle riders under the age of 18 years old, and for those who hold a “novice license”. However, even if you are an experienced rider, we strongly recommend all motorcyclists – regardless of age or experience level – wear proper head protective gear.

Is Motorcycle Lane Splitting Legal in Ohio?

Yes, Ohio law prohibits lane splitting. Lane splitting is defined as bicyclists or motorcyclists who avert slow traffic and congestion by riding in an unauthorized lane. Lane splitting is a common occurrence on Interstate 270, and other roads, when an accident causes traffic to slow down significantly. 

Who Is At Fault for a Motorcycle Accident in Ohio?

Motorists have an increased duty to ensure motorcyclists are safe on the road, which means that most car vs. motorcycle accidents are the fault of the car driver, but, of course, this doesn’t apply to all cases. Even if you believe you were at fault in your motorcycle accident, we recommend you speak with an attorney. 

Contact the Columbus Motorcycle Accident Attorneys at Malek Law Firm If You’ve Been Injured

Motorcycle riding is increasing in popularity in Ohio and all across the country. There are specific traffic laws for motorcycles, and accidents are increasing along with popularity, often through no fault of the motorcycle riders involved. Caution and safety are often a matter of life and death.

Anyone involved in a motorcycle accident needs the help of the Columbus motorcycle accident attorneys at Malek Law Firm. Our firm separates itself from typical law firms in that while the others are willing to give up for a quick and easy undervalued settlement amount, we go the extra mile to fight for every penny you’re entitled to. We are willing to fight for you when others are not.

All initial consultations are free of charge. Call us toll-free at 888-444-7440 or contact us online for more information and to speak with a lawyer about your potential case.