In New Hampshire and across the United States, there are more motorcycles on the road than ever before. According to the Insurance Information Institute, there were more than 8.6 million registered motorcycles nationwide in 2016. Since then, that number has likely grown.
With so many bikes on the road, it should come as no surprise that New Hampshire motorcycle accidents are a common occurrence. While these crashes are not any more likely than a car accident, the results are typically far more devastating. Motorcycles offer little in the way of protection, often leading to motorcycle accidents and catastrophic injuries.
If you have suffered injuries in a New Hampshire motorcycle accident, you could have a viable injury claim against the person that caused your accident. To learn about your legal options, contact our New Hampshire motorcycle accident attorney right away.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in New Hampshire
Any number of factors could combine to cause a motorcycle accident. In most cases, negligent driving by other motorists is a major cause. This can include anything from driving while intoxicated to speeding. The risks related to a crash increase for motorcycle riders, as other motorists often do not see them until it is too late. An act as simple as making a left turn can be hazardous when oncoming traffic fails to notice a rider in their path.
Other drivers are not the only factor involved in a crash, however. In some cases, poor highway design or improperly maintained roadways can contribute to an accident. Defective parts can also result in a motorcycle crash.
Establishing Liability in a New Hampshire Motorcycle Accident
In New Hampshire, motorists owe each other a duty to operate their vehicles safely. If another motorist fails to meet the duty of care they owe you, they could face liability for your injuries. A driver breaches their duty of care when they cause an accident due to their careless, reckless or intentional actions.
New Hampshire Motorcycle Insurance Requirements
New Hampshire is unique, in that it is one of the few states that does not mandate liability insurance coverage for their riders. However, that does not mean riders are off the hook for any accidents they cause. New Hampshire law requires motorcyclists to take responsibility after a crash. While this does not have to be through the use of an insurance policy, insurance is the most common option. For riders using liability insurance to meet their financial responsibility requirements, the minimum coverage required is:
- $25,000 in bodily injuries per person
- $50,000 in bodily injuries, combined for the entire accident
- $25,000 in vehicle damage
There are some situations, like riders with DWI convictions, that result in mandatory insurance coverage. If you were injured in a motorcycle accident, a New Hampshire injury lawyer can guide you through the insurance claims process.
Common Injuries in a Motorcycle Crash in New Hampshire
While injuries in any vehicle crash have the potential to be severe, motorcycle accident injuries are frequently catastrophic. There are two major injury threats in a motorcycle accident: the sudden impact from another vehicle, and the injuries that occur when a rider falls from their bike.
The injuries resulting from a collision with another rider are obvious, as any significant impact can cause broken bones and internal injuries. Falling from a motorcycle has some unique risks, however. Riders could be injured from the impact of the fall or suffer road rash from sliding across the pavement. If a rider lands in the path of another vehicle, another driver could run over the motorcyclist unintentionally.
Some of the most common injuries stemming from a motorcycle crash include:
- Brain injuries
- Road rash
- Neck injuries
- Paralysis
- Death
- Back injuries
- Internal bleeding
- Broken bones, cuts and bruises
- Eye injuries
- Burns
- Amputations
- Joint damage
Available Damages
The cost of treating injuries from a motorcycle accident can be high. Medical expenses related to emergency room bills or physical therapy can become overwhelming, especially when you are too injured to work. Through a civil suit, you could seek compensation for these injuries from the at-fault driver. Damages commonly sought include:
- Lost wages
- Medical expenses
- Diminished earning power
- Motorcycle repair bills
- Disfigurement
- Loss of consortium
- Pain and suffering
Work With an Experienced New Hampshire Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
If you sustained an injury in a New Hampshire motorcycle crash through no fault of your own, you deserve compensation for your losses. From medical bills to the cost of repairing your bike, the at-fault party should face liability for these damages. Reach out to our motorcycle accident attorneys in New Hampshire to find out what legal options you may have.