Belville Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Belville Motorcycle Accident Attorney

On any given business day, Shipwreck Harley-Davidson at 6620 Market Street is bustling with motorcycle enthusiasts looking for the newest models or repairing their motorcycles. The town of Belville offers pristine roads in and around a community that spans 1.7 square miles, but motorcycle riders can face serious hazards when other drivers cause a collision. A Belville motorcycle accident lawyer can hold the negligent driver accountable for your injuries.

Helping Motorcycle Collision Victims Secure Compensation Since 1990

Since 1990, Christina Rivenbark & Associates has fought for motorcyclists injured in collisions caused by negligent drivers. Motorcycle accidents often result in severe personal injuries, from broken bones to traumatic brain injuries, leaving victims facing mounting medical bills and time away from work. Our firm understands the unique challenges riders face and is committed to helping them pursue the compensation they deserve.

We take a client-focused approach, ensuring each case is handled with the attention it deserves. Whether the accident occurred on U.S. Route 17, NC-133, or another Brunswick County roadway, we investigate thoroughly, negotiate aggressively, and litigate when necessary to protect our clients’ rights.

Understanding the Causes of Motorcycle Collisions in Belville

Motorcycle collisions in Belville are an unfortunate reality of life. They occur for many reasons that often involve some level of driver negligence. U.S. Route 17, a major thoroughfare, routinely sees heavy traffic that increases the risk of collisions.

Common causes of motorcycle collisions include distracted driving, failure to yield, speeding, and impaired driving. Roads in and around Belville can become hazardous during inclement weather. Motorcycles have a lower profile on the road and at intersections. This makes them more vulnerable to left-turn accidents, rear-end collisions, and collisions that result from lane-switching.

Even a low-speed collision can lead to devastating injuries. Cars and trucks do not have to make contact with a motorcycle to cause a serious injury. Motorcycle riders are very observant on the road and sometimes swerve or ditch their bikes to avoid hitting a vehicle that swerves into its lane.

Establishing Fault Following a Motorcycle Collision

Following a serious collision that sends injured motorcycle riders to Novant Health Brunswick Medical Center or another emergency room, motorcyclists often work to hold the negligent driver accountable for causing the collision. One important first step is to establish fault.

Fault is often determined by finding who violated a traffic code, like failing to yield the right-of-way under North Carolina General Statute § 20-155. Evidence plays a critical role in establishing fault because negligent drivers rarely admit that they caused a collision.

Common forms of evidence include police reports, testimony, traffic camera footage, dashcam footage, and other forms of evidence. By reconstructing the collision, the injured party can hold the at-fault driver accountable for the harm they caused.

Why Legal Representation Matters Following a Collision

Belville may be relatively small, with 2,203 residents, but there are many attorneys who work nearby. You may think that you do not need legal representation following a collision. However, attempting to represent yourself alone could be a serious mistake. Insurance companies can use your statements against you, and they are more likely to make lowball settlement offers to claimants who do not have legal representation.

North Carolina’s contributory negligence laws further complicate the claims process because the courts can deny your ability to pursue compensation if you are even 1% at fault for causing the collision. Having legal representation can ensure that you are treated fairly by insurers. If needed, your lawyer can take your

FAQs

Q: How Much Are Most Motorcycle Accident Settlements in North Carolina?

A: Motorcycle accident settlements vary widely based on injury severity, medical costs, lost wages, and liability. Minor injuries may result in settlements of a few thousand dollars, while severe injuries requiring ongoing care can lead to six- or seven-figure payouts. The at-fault driver’s insurance limits and North Carolina motorcycle laws also influence the final settlement amount.

Q: What Evidence Can Strengthen a Motorcycle Accident Claim?

A: Strong evidence can significantly impact a motorcycle accident claim. Key elements include police reports detailing the crash, eyewitness statements, medical records documenting injuries, and photos of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and road conditions. Surveillance or dashcam footage can provide crucial visual proof. Testimony from professional witnesses, such as accident reconstruction specialists, may also help establish fault and liability.

Q: How Long Does a Motorcycle Accident Settlement Take?

A: The time to settle a motorcycle accident claim depends on factors like the severity of injuries, insurance negotiations, and whether a lawsuit is necessary. Some cases settle in a few months, while complex claims involving disputes over liability or medical treatment may take a year or longer. Insurance companies often delay payouts, especially in high-value claims.

Q: What Should I Not Do After a Motorcycle Accident?

A: Avoid admitting fault at the scene, as liability is determined through an investigation. Do not delay medical treatment, as insurance companies may argue your injuries are unrelated. Refrain from giving recorded statements to the at-fault party’s insurer without legal guidance. Lastly, do not accept an early settlement offer before fully understanding your medical costs and long-term recovery needs.

Q: Where Do Most Motorcycle Accidents Happen?

A: Most motorcycle accidents occur at intersections and on urban roads, where traffic congestion and visibility issues increase risks. Left-turn collisions are especially common when drivers fail to see oncoming motorcycles. Highways also pose dangers due to high speeds and sudden lane changes. Riders should stay alert, anticipate hazards, and wear protective gear to reduce the risk of severe injuries.

Schedule Your Motorcycle Collision Consultation Today

With 2,964 employers in Brunswick County, the region surrounding Belville remains busy and prosperous. However, as the area continues to grow, so does the risk of motorcycle collisions on busy roads like U.S. Route 17 and NC-133. Motorcyclists face unique dangers, from inattentive drivers to hazardous road conditions, often resulting in severe injuries.

At Christina Rivenbark & Associates, our motorcycle injury attorneys are dedicated to helping injured riders secure the compensation they need for medical expenses, lost income, and pain and suffering. If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, contact our office today to schedule a consultation and discuss your legal options.