Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Salt Lake City UT

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Experienced Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Salt Lake City UT

Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Salt Lake City UT A motorcycle accident is always serious, but contacting a motorcycle accident lawyer in Salt Lake City, Utah, can help. Accidents are a risk that you’ll take whenever you ride, and the prospect of a bad spill always keeps riders on their toes. Motorcyclists need to be extra attentive, especially as cars become more and more modernized and drivers become more and more distracted. Cars and motorcycles are completely different: A car provides a safety net in the event of accidents, and also numerous distractions that might lure drivers into a false sense of competence and security on the road. On a bike, the only thing keeping you from a major injury is your ability as a rider. Cars are becoming more and more loaded down with innovative safety features, but driver error is only becoming more and more of a hazard to motorcyclists. You might be the most attentive rider on the road, but that doesn’t account for everyone else.

The Severity of a Motorcycle Accident

Unfortunately, motorcyclists need to share the road with cars. If you ride a motorcycle, you understand that there’s never a guarantee that the other drivers on the road are as attentive as you are: There’s always the risk of someone texting and driving, drinking and driving, or engaged in one of the countless other distractions that can occur behind the wheel. You may be familiar with the old cliche: “Your safety isn’t about you, it’s about the other drivers,” but until you’ve been in an accident, you might not fully know what’s at risk. In the aftermath of a motorcycle accident, the differences become even more transparent. Someone in a car might escape with minor bruises and whiplash, but a motorcyclist involved in an accident may be at immediate risk of permanent injury or death. People weren’t designed to withstand sudden impacts and spills off of vehicles traveling at the speed of traffic, and your hospital bill shows it. You may have (barely) survived your motorcycle accident, but that doesn’t mean you’re out of the woods yet. Chances are, you’ll be strapped with jaw-dropping medical bills and a long recovery process – if a full recovery is even possible. Between hospital stays, medical procedures, and physical therapy, you probably won’t be able to return to work and collect any paychecks either. So what can a motorcycle accident lawyer in Salt Lake City, UT do for you?

Getting Help from Rasmussen & Miner

At Rasmussen & Miner, we know that a motorcycle accident has the potential to ruin the rest of your life – but we also know that it doesn’t have to. We take steps to ensure our clients get the most compensation possible for their injuries, so they can afford the medical treatments and fresh start they deserve. After a motorcycle accident, you may be left feeling lucky to be alive, but once the medical bills start stacking up, your life can become a lot more stressful. It can be difficult to focus on recovery when you have so much insurance hoops to jump through. Instead of struggling with bills and financial problems, reach out to a motorcycle accident lawyer in Salt Lake City, UT, and see how Rasmussen & Miner can help you move on and get back on the road. Motorcyclists who have been injured due to being hit by a car driver, may ask for help from a UT motorcycle accident lawyer Salt Lake City residents trust at Rasmussen & Miner to seek a sense of justice in the accident. Riding a motorcycle can be exhilarating; however, it does not come without risks. In fact, because there is no protection around the 2-wheeled vehicle, riders are more vulnerable than the occupants of a car or truck. This lack of protection can result in severe injuries, if the motorcycle crashes. Even low speeds can cause catastrophic, if not deadly injuries. motorcycle infographic

Important Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit Questions

It’s normal to have questions about your motorcycle accident case. At Rasmussen & Miner: Personal Injury Attorney, we always encourage our clients to ask all the questions they want. Doing that helps you make better decisions.

Should You Call the Police After a Motorcycle Accident?

Despite what the other driver may be telling you, you should always contact the police after a motorcycle crash. It’s the right thing for you and your case. Don’t let anybody talk you out of waiting for the police to arrive. When a motorcycle accident lawyer in Salt Lake City UT is putting together your lawsuit, having a police report of the accident is crucial for proving what happened. It can be the difference between winning and losing. Having a police report to back you up can even put pressure on insurance companies to give you a higher settlement.

Should You Go to the Hospital Even If You Feel OK?

It’s a smart idea to see a doctor after any motorcycle accident. Even though it may seem that you only have a few scratches and bruises, there could be serious internal bleeding or head injuries. Your motorcycle accident lawyer in Salt Lake City UT will want to see those medical records to use as evidence in your case.

Should I Contact My Insurance Company After the Crash?

You need to call your insurance company to report the accident so you receive coverage. That said, be very careful what you say to the adjuster. Keep in mind that your insurer isn’t on your side for accident lawsuits — it’s primarily looking to protect itself. Don’t admit to causing the crash or say anything that sounds like an admission of guilt. Keep your comments short. Call a motorcycle accident lawyer in Salt Lake City UT right away. If the insurer pushes you for more information, perhaps asking questions such as “Who do you think was responsible?” just mention that your lawyer will be in touch to answer any further questions. At Rasmussen & Miner: Personal Injury Attorney, we can represent you in all negotiations with your insurer and the other driver’s insurance company.

Should I Agree to a Settlement Instead of Going to Court?

There’s nothing wrong with settlements per se — they can save you money on court costs — but you shouldn’t agree to them yourself. Don’t accept any offers until your motorcycle accident lawyer in Salt Lake City UT has had a chance to review the terms. Otherwise, you can get tricked by hidden terms.

Reasons Why Motorcycle Riders Need an Attorney After a Crash

There is no doubt that the act of riding a motorcycle is associated with certain risks. But simply because bikers assume a relative degree of risk when they hop on their motorcycles doesn’t mean that they can’t hold others responsible if they are harmed while riding. Working with an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer from Rasmussen & Miner will allow you to clarify your legal situation and evaluate your options in the wake of a crash. You may understandably be wondering what the benefit of working with a motorcycle accident lawyer is, especially if the insurance provider of the individual who harmed you has already offered you a settlement. There are many reasons why it is important to seek the guidance of an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer before making any assumptions about your case and/or accepting an insurance settlement offer. Some of the most pressing reasons to seek counsel include:

► Determining who is at fault

Motorcyclists frequently get a bad rap. People accuse them of being reckless, speeding, frequent lane changes to navigate around traffic, and more. Consequently, bystanders and authorities may immediately place the blame on the motorcyclist if an accident happens. However, motorcycle accident lawyers don’t rely on such assumptions. Seasoned lawyers can gather evidence and conduct an independent investigation aimed at uncovering the truth. You may be surprised by what your knowledgeable and experienced motorcycle attorney discovers. Many factors, such as distracted driving, speeding cars, traffic offenses, improper use of turn signals, defective parts, and more, can contribute to motorcycle accidents. Depending on the existing evidence, a lawyer may be better able to identify who is responsible for your accident.

► Filing a lawsuit

A motorcycle crash can be devastating and debilitating, leaving riders with critical and even life-altering injuries. These injuries place a burden on bikers and their families who must pay medical expenses while shouldering the burden of lost wages and income. A motorcycle accident attorney can help bikers and their families manage this challenge. By filing a lawsuit against the liable parties, your lawyer may be able to help motorcycle accident victims recover monetary damage awards to cover any physical, mental, and financial challenges. Reviewing accident reports, handling court filings, and building a strategic case is just the beginning of a motorcycle lawyer’s job.

► Dealing with and fighting insurance companies

Although you, as a motorcycle rider, and the other driver involved in an accident, may both have insurance policies, getting those companies to compensate you fairly could be challenging. Insurance companies are businesses that are concerned for their bottom lines, which are threatened if payouts are too large. They may go to great lengths to settle quickly and cheaply. Some insurance providers may even try to avoid paying. Having a seasoned motorcycle attorney on your side can strengthen your position at the negotiating table. Our team has experience dealing with insurance companies and can work to get you a fair settlement. If push comes to shove, you can be confident that your lawyer knows how to properly file a lawsuit and go to trial.

3 Common Mistakes To Avoid in Your Motorcycle Accident Case

Letting the Other Driver Convince You Not To Call the Police

When you’ve been in a motorcycle accident, you may not be thinking clearly. It’s hard to concentrate with the rush of adrenaline and pain you may have. In this situation, other drivers sometimes attempt to convince you to avoid involving the police. They may threaten you or try to blame you for causing the crash. Ignore those things. Call the police right away, especially if anyone was injured. Not only can this help you avoid getting into trouble from hit-and-run charges, but it can also help you have a stronger case. The police report is one of the most important pieces of evidence your motorcycle accident lawyer in Salt Lake City, UT, can use for your case. This report includes names of witnesses who saw the crash, information about traffic citations and details relating to the cause of the accident.

Accepting Money From the Other Driver in Exchange for Not Pressing Charges

Another situation we’ve seen happen a lot is when at-fault drivers tell you a sad story about how sorry they are and how much trouble they’re going to be in. They offer to pay for your vehicle repairs and promise to pay for your medical bills as long as you don’t file a claim with their insurance company. Don’t listen to these attempts. Don’t accept money or reach any kind of spoken or written agreement with the other driver. Doing so can severely reduce the amount of compensation you receive and leave you in the lurch when the person doesn’t follow through. At Rasmussen & Miner: Personal Injury Attorney, we’ve even seen situations where the at-fault driver will turn around and sue the motorcycle rider for injuries! Protect your interests from the beginning by contacting a motorcycle accident lawyer in Salt Lake City, UT.

Losing Evidence of the Crash

Some people get rid of evidence without realizing it. You should never repair your motorcycle before settling your case. Don’t wash or throw out the clothes you were wearing during the accident. Keep all your medical records, test results and other information from visiting the doctor. At Rasmussen & Miner: Personal Injury Attorney, we can use these pieces of evidence to strengthen your case. If you can, take videos or photos of the scene of the accident as well. A strong case with ample evidence puts more pressure on insurance companies to offer a significant settlement. They know your motorcycle accident lawyer in Salt Lake City, UT, is ready and willing to fight for you in court.

4 Things You Can Do To Prevent a Motorcycle Accident

Because you cannot count on the drivers of cars and trucks to stay alert and to see your motorcycle, you have to compensate for their lack of attention by driving more defensively. This means concentrating harder, anticipating potential accidents, and taking the necessary actions to avoid them. If you do that, you may never need a motorcycle accident lawyer in Salt Lake City, UT from Rasmussen & Miner: Personal Injury Attorney.

1. Receive the Necessary Training

Having a license to drive a car does not necessarily qualify you to ride a motorcycle. There are significant differences in operation between the two of them. You have to go through a separate process to get a motorcycle license. Make sure you complete the required training to get your motorcycle license and do not cut any corners. You can only gain experience through years of riding, but before you set out on the road by yourself, you can make sure that you are as prepared as possible.

2. Avoid Alcohol

Alcohol impairs driving ability, including motorcycle operation. To make sure that you are consistently in the best condition to ride your motorcycle, avoid drinking alcohol beforehand. Alcohol is a factor in approximately 43% of all fatal crashes. In a comparative negligence state like Utah, riding a motorcycle while intoxicated does not automatically disqualify you from receiving compensation, but it does mean you need a motorcycle accident lawyer in Salt Lake City, UT, to help you gain all that you deserve.

3. Be Visible

While it is difficult for drivers to see motorcycles, there are things you can do to make it easier. At the very least, you should make sure your headlight works properly and remains on whenever your motorcycle is running. You should check all the lights on your motorcycle, front and back, periodically. It may also help to add reflective decals or strips to your motorcycle and possibly to your clothing.

4. Watch Out at Intersections

Many accidents involving motorcycles occur when another vehicle is making a left turn at an intersection and the driver doesn’t see the motorcycle. You have to be ready to make evasive maneuvers if another vehicle turns in front of you. This means that you have to pay attention to turn signals and other clues to a driver’s intentions. You must anticipate what could happen so you can respond appropriately and promptly. Despite your best efforts, accidents may still happen. If you get seriously hurt, you can turn to Rasmussen & Miner: Personal Injury Attorney for help from an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer in Salt Lake City, UT.

How To Protect Your Best Interests

Motorcyclists are significantly more likely to suffer from serious injuries in the event of a collision with a vehicle. If you were in such an accident recently and were the motorcyclist, chances are you are dealing with plenty of medical bills and wage loss. The last thing you need right about now is an insurance claim adjuster who is not watching out for you. To protect your best interest, be wary of what you say when talking with the insurance adjuster for your claim.

Don’t Get Too Comfortable

A claims adjuster is someone who is not on your side, no matter what they tell you or how friendly they seem (this includes the adjuster from your insurance company). It is an insurance adjuster’s responsibility to reduce payout and safeguard the company’s interests. In fact, the adjuster may be hoping for ways to deny your claim entirely. Refrain from being too casual about your conversation, and turn to your lawyer if you need help.

Prepare Ahead of Time

Your lawyer can walk you through what the conversation with the insurance adjuster is probaby going to be like. By preparing ahead of time, you can enter the conversation more confident and aware of what to say, and what not to say. Here are more tips for a successful how to have a convo with an insurance adjuster while also keeping your interests protected:

Choose a time and location where you will feel relaxed and not focused on anything else. The majority of interviews are conducted over the telephone, so pick a time most convenient for you. Preferably somewhere quiet where you will not be interrupted and can fully focus on the questions being asked.
Review your notes about the accident and have photographs of your injuries and the accident scene as a reference tool. These can help refresh your memory when you feel stuck.
Ask a family member or friend to be present while you speak with the claim adjuster on speaker phone, as moral support and a witness in case there is a dispute that develops based on what you told the adjuster.
If the claims adjuster informs you that the conversation will be recorded, request that you receive a copy of the statement once it is complete.
Give answers that are concise, confident, and short. Do not offer more information than what is asked of you. For instance, do not carry on your story when it isn’t necessary, and answering with a yes or no can suffice if the question is not open-ended.
Be truthful, as the insurance adjuster may try to cancel your claim if they have reason to believe you are lying. If you don’t know the answer to a question, it is okay to say that you do not know or aren’t sure.
Never admit or accept fault, as this is a legal conclusion that will be assessed as your claim is processed. Avoid other statements like “I am sorry” or “I feel bad about what happened”, etc.

Negligent Car Drivers

The injuries, financial loss, and property damage can be so severe after a motorcycle accident that the victim is left with their life having been flipped completely upside down. Negligence is a factor in at least 50% of all accidents. When this is true for your own accident, or someone who died, reaching out to a motorcycle accident lawyer may be in your best interests. Regardless of how cautious a motorcyclist is, they can be involved in a collision at any time, anywhere. Some of these accidents might literally be an accident and with no negligence involved, but many involve liability from actions such as:

Speeding
Drunk driving
Distracted driving
Failure to signal or yield
Racing
Inexperienced driving

Following a collision, it is not unusual for the negligent driver to claim they did not see the motorcycle. Even if this is true, it can generally not be used as a defense. This is because every driver on the road is expected to use caution and be aware of their surroundings. If they fail to adhere to this duty, they can be held liable. Immediately following a motorcycle accident, you should get medical attention. After you have been treated, and as soon as possible, you should get advice from a motorcycle accident lawyer in the Salt Lake City area. The sooner you do this, the more time you will give your lawyer to discover and assemble evidence and build a case that gets you every cent you deserve.

Injuries and Compensation

The injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident are often severe, if not life threatening. The extent of the injuries and related losses to the accident will have a role in determining the amount of compensation. As a motorcycle accident lawyer, we have helped victims who have suffered from:

Facial injuries
Head injuries
Brain injuries
Broken bones
Spinal cord injuries
Lacerations
Burns
Internal injuries
Loss of limb
Loss of any of the 5 senses
Road rash
Bruising
Psychological injuries

The insurance company might offer an immediate settlement; however, before making any quick decisions, speak with a motorcycle accident lawyer who can review the offer and ensure you are getting enough compensation — which is often not the case.

Reasons Why Drivers Get Distracted

As lawyers at Rasmussen & Miner are aware, car drivers cause a significant number of motorcycle accidents every single year. In most situations, the driver just wasn’t obeying the laws of the road or being attentive enough to their surroundings which led to the crash. Some of the most prevalent motorcycle accident circumstances that our legal team has represented include:

The car driver changing lanes without having looked out for the motorcyclist
The car driver was tailgating the motorcyclist, causing a rear end accident
The car driver was texting or talking on the phone in the moments right before the collision
The car driver was operating the vehicle while under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol
The car driver was distracted in some way either due to the radio, another passenger, eating, etc.

What Our Team Can Offer

If you have experienced an injury while riding a motorcycle, or know someone who has, it may be in your best interest to speak with a lawyer from Rasmussen & Miner. We have helped countless clients receive the compensation they deserve and are owed for their suffering and pain. Our lawyers possess a widespread understanding of law regarding personal injury claims in addition to a sincere compassion for our clients. Rob Miner is a motorcycle accident lawyer in Salt Lake City, UT that you can contact for your free consultation to discuss your situation and case today. It may be wise to contact Rasmussen & Miner if you’re seeking a lawyer who is proud to be fighting for this community, has experience helping people that have been in such accidents, and that will protect your rights and participate in any necessary negotiations with your insurance company. The losses we will help you receive compensation for can be some or all of the following:

Family member wrongful death
Road rash leading to disfigurement and scarring
Spinal cord injuries
Broken bones and leg fractures
Amputation
Head injuries, such as traumatic brain injury

Proving Liability

To help prove negligence and liability in a motorcycle accident case, there are several factors that must be shown. A motorcycle accident lawyer can work with the victim to gather evidence that these elements are true for the accident:

The car driver had an obligation to operate his or her vehicle in a reasonably safe way and abide by the rules of the road
The car driver had failed to uphold this obligation to practice safety by driving in an unsafe manner
Due to this unsafe behavior, a crash between the driver and motorcyclist occurred
The motorcyclist suffered monetary losses, injuries, and damages due to the accident

The motorcyclist may receive financial restitution for the accident, if these four elements above can be shown with sufficient evidence. The most common types of recoverable damages in motorcycle accidents include the victim’s medical bills, costs for physical therapy or rehabilitation, lost wages, loss of future income, pain and suffering, and costs for motorcycle repair.

Book Your Consultation With Us

The injuries experienced during motorcycle accidents are often disastrous in nature. No-fault insurance is unfortunately not a requirement for motorcycles in Utah. In order to receive compensation for things such as disability, medical bills, pain and suffering, and lost wages, you will be required to file a lawsuit regarding personal injury against the insurance company of the driver that is at fault. At Rasmussen & Miner, we understand the situation at hand and know how important of a decision it can be to choose a lawyer to hire. We constantly strive to protect our client’s rights and best interests, as the result of the case can cause a huge impact on your future. By choosing a motorcycle accident lawyer at our firm, you will never have to question how serious we take this responsibility, and hard and diligently we will work to secure the greatest compensation possible and ultimately win your claim. If you are ready to learn about your rights as a motorcycle accident victim, our team at Rasmussen & Miner would like to listen to what is happening and help you take action that gets results.

If you sustained an injury in a motorcycle accident, you may want to consult a motorcycle accident lawyer in Salt Lake City, UT from Rasmussen & Miner. You may be entitled to receive compensation. A lawyer can help you bring a claim against the negligent party.

Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Motorcyclists don’t have the protection of a vehicle, so they are more likely to suffer serious injuries in an accident. Here are the most common motorcycle accident injuries.

Road rash. When motorcyclists slide across the pavement during an accident, they may suffer road rash. The injury can cause multiple layers of skin to peel away and expose muscle. Road rash is very painful and can lead to infection, nerve damage and permanent scars.
Head injuries. Head injuries are one of the most severe injuries motorcyclists can suffer in accidents. Symptoms of these injuries may include confusion, dizziness, vision problems, headaches and vomiting. Motorcyclists who suffer head injuries may require long-term rehabilitation. They can reduce the severity of head injuries by always wearing a helmet.
Biker’s arm. When motorcyclists get thrown off their bike in an accident, they may put their arms around their body to lessen the impact. Unfortunately, this can cause damage to the bones and nerves in the arms and hands.
Spinal cord injuries. In an accident, motorcyclists are also at risk of suffering spinal cord injuries. These injuries may include disc herniation, muscle atrophy and disc bulges. As a motorcycle accident lawyer in Salt Lake City, UT can attest, these injuries sometimes result in permanent paralysis.
Organ damage. When motorcyclists hit the ground after an accident, their internal organs, such as the liver, kidneys and lungs, can suffer severe damage.
Burns. If motorcyclists come into direct contact with their own bike during an accident, they may suffer burns from the engine. Burns can lead to infection and permanent scarring.

Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Accidents

Our motorcycle accident lawyer Salt Lake City UT, has represented victims of accidents who have suffered severe injuries due to negligence. Because the motorcycle rider has little to protect them, when faced with an accident, the impact is likely to be catastrophic. Victims of these accidents and their families should take the time to speak with Rasmussen & Miner to ensure that their questions are answered and receive qualified legal representation to protect their interests.

What initial steps should be taken after a motorcycle accident?

The steps following a motorcycle accident are critical to ensuring safety, receiving treatment, and safeguarding a possible claim. However, in some cases, injuries may be so severe that the victim cannot do anything at the scene, thus becoming reliant upon bystanders, emergency services, and law enforcement. There will be immediate and long-term steps that need to be taken. Following the accident, it’s imperative to seek medical care to rule out any underlying medical conditions and ensure treatment is received for any injuries. In addition to this being important for a person’s health and well-being, it’s also essential in proving the injuries were a result of the accident. Once treatment is received, the victim should write down their account of what happened and gather as much evidence as possible. Once the recovery process has started, victims should contact a motorcycle accident lawyer in Salt Lake City UT to receive guidance on moving forward with a legal claim.

Is Utah a no-fault state? What is PIP?

Yes- Utah is a no-fault state meaning that injured drivers must first access their car insurance for damages such as medical expenses and property loss up to the coverage limits. In Utah, this means that drivers must have personal injury protection (PIP) coverage to cover costs. However, this doesn’t mean that an injured driver can’t file a third-party claim against the negligent party. Each state has certain thresholds of losses that must be met before this can happen. In Utah, drivers must have at least $3,000 of no-fault protection. If losses exceed $3,000 and the victim has been severely injured or disabled, it’s possible to pursue damages from the at-fault driver.

If an insurance adjuster has contacted the victim, should they speak to them without a lawyer?

The insurance adjuster will likely contact the victim to discuss the accident. They will have a series of questions for accident victims, and it’s essential to proceed with caution. The last thing any victim wants is their potential settlement to be impacted because they say the wrong thing and inadvertently implicate fault. If a lawyer represents the victim, it’s usually best to refer the insurance adjuster to them.

Is the victim partially at fault if they were not wearing a helmet at the time of the accident?

While it’s recommended that those riding motorcycles wear a helmet, it’s not a legal requirement in Utah. However, it is essential to note that this does not pertain to riders under 21. Any motorcyclist under the age of 21 is legally required to wear a helmet. If the rider was over 21 and not wearing a helmet, they may still be able to pursue damages from the liable driver.

Motorcycle accidents can be catastrophic for both victims and their families, and it’s essential to contact a firm like Rasmussen & Miner. Learn more about the representation our Salt Lake City, UT motorcycle accident lawyer provides by scheduling a consultation as soon as possible.

What are dangerous injuries after an accident?

If you were thrown off of your motorcycle, you may be dealing with a brain injury or a spinal cord injury. When this is the case, you should look out for symptoms like:

Loss of consciousness
Sleeping problems
Issues concentrating
Nausea and/or vomiting
Speech problems
Confusion
Loss of feeling in your limbs
Inability to move your limbs

If you are dealing with any combination of the above symptoms, you should seek help from a medical professional right away and call a motorcycle accident lawyer in Salt Lake City, UT.

Recovering After a Motorcycle Accident

When you are recovering after an accident, you may be aware that you will not fully recover. This is not only damaging to you physically but can be emotionally scarring as well. You may also begin to see your medical bills piling up and wonder how you will be able to pay them, especially if you are unable to return to work. Instead of carrying all of these concerns on your shoulders, you should be focused on getting the medical attention you need. When all of this seems to hit you at once, our team can help you by beginning the motorcycle injury claim process. We can try to get you compensation for things like:

Pain and suffering
Medical bills
Future accommodations for a disability
Inability to earn wages

When it feels like your whole life has turned upside down, know that you can rely on our team. If you have been in a motorcycle accident and would like to speak with someone from Rasmussen & Miner, call us to talk with our Salt Lake City, Utah motorcycle accident lawyer today.

Is There A Helmet Law?

In Utah, you are only required to wear a helmet while you ride a motorcycle if you are under the age of 18. If you are 18 or older and did not have on a helmet, even if you sustained a head injury, this fact cannot be used against you in a personal injury to reduce your recovery amount. But your recovery amount may be reduced if you have not yet reached the age of majority and you sustained a head injury from the motorcycle accident. If you have not yet reached the age of majority and did not have on a helmet, but you sustained an injury that a helmet would not prevent anyhow, then this fact becomes less relevant in the eyes of the law, and should not be cause for a reduction in your recovery amount.

However, it is always safer if you wear a helmet. Even the most experienced of riders get distracted or have an accident, and a helmet can save your life after you meet a nasty collision.

Lane Filtering

A motorcyclist is lane filtering when s/he weaves in between two lanes of traffic, which are all going one direction, when traffic has slowed down or come to a standstill. Many motorcyclists do this to get ahead of traffic. As a motorcyclist, you are permitted to lane filter in Salt Lake City Utah, but only under specific conditions. You may lane filter if:

The miles per hour is 45 or less
You are not on the freeway
You are not riding above 15 miles per hour
There is more than one traffic lane going in the same direction as you
The cars you are filtering between are stopped

Although it is lawful, lane filtering can be dangerous, especially for new riders. Even if the injuries you sustained are severe or life-threatening, you may be partially to blame if you did not follow lane filtering guidelines or if you were reckless or negligent during your attempt at lane filtering. To learn more about how negligent or reckless lane filtering may impact your recovery amount, contact the best motorcycle accident lawyers Salt Lake City UT has to offer.

Can I Ride with My Child?

Yes, all motorcyclists are permitted to ride with any passenger of any age so long as you and that passenger are abiding by Utah motorcyclists laws. If your passenger is under 18, then s/he needs to wear a helmet, even if you do not need to wear a helmet. Also, in order for you to ride with a passenger lawfully, your motorcycle must have a passenger seat and footrest.

If your passenger was injured during your ride, contact motorcycle accident lawyers in Salt lake City UT Rasmussen and Miner.

What Rules Are There for Driving a Motorcycle in Utah?

As with all motor vehicles, following the rules of the road and practicing defensive driving are key to a safe, enjoyable ride. However, Utah law places restrictions on riders beyond those of a normal car. The law requires:

· All motorcycle drivers must obtain a motorcycle license

· A motorcyclist must change lanes before passing a vehicle

· Motorcyclists to refrain from lane splitting, or driving between two lanes of traffic

· Proper seats and footrests if the motorcycle is carrying a passenger

· A motorcyclist must keep both hands on the handlebars at all times

Do You Really Need to Wear a Motorcycle Helmet?

Riders can also take further steps to ensure that they stay safe. Helmets, while not required by law in Utah law for those riders over the age of 21, can decrease the likelihood or severity of head trauma, a common cause of death in motorcycle accidents. A Salt Lake City UT motorcycle accident lawyer knows that although a helmet may not be required by law, wearing one could save your life in an accident.

What Steps Should You Take After an Accident?

The steps to take after a motorcycle accident very much resemble those taken after a car crash:

Check on everyone involved in the crash to see if anyone needs immediate medical attention.

· Call 911, to inform them of the accident; do this even if no one has been seriously hurt since you should still report the accident to the police.

· Collect as much contact information as you can from the other people involved in the crash, especially a phone number, license plate number, driver’s license number, and insurance information

· Document the scene of the accident. If you have a camera or a camera-phone handy, get pictures of the scene, as well as the individual vehicles involved. If you don’t have a camera available, try to take some pictures of the damage to your bike once you get home.

· After you’ve spoken with the police and made your report, contact your insurance company to report the accident. They may ask you for an interview to provide them with the details of the accident. Make sure not to provide this information without first consulting with a lawyer.

If you’ve recently been injured in a motorcycle accident, contact an experienced Salt Lake City UT motorcycle accident lawyer from Rasmussen & Miner today.

Motorcycling Shouldn’t be so Dangerous. What Causes these Accidents?

It’s obvious that cars and bikes are totally different. Unfortunately, when cars and motorcycles meet in accidents, the rider always comes out worse. With all the added safety features in cars, you’d think there would be less accidents. Unfortunately, this couldn’t be further than the truth.

Car manufacturers are adding more and more safety features to keep drivers from getting into accidents, but there’s no real remedy for negligence. Sadly, with more and more safety features, cars are getting packed with more and more bells and whistles to keep passengers entertained and drivers distracted. And of course, everyone has a phone these days – and they don’t ignore those text messages when they’re behind the wheel.

You could be the best rider on the planet, but you can’t tell who is going to completely fail in their responsibility as a safe driver. And that’s a huge cause of motorcycle accidents.

What Happens in the Aftermath of a Motorcycle Accident?

If you’ve already been involved in a motorcycle accident, chances are you already know what this can be like. However, if you’re reading this for a friend or family member, it’s important to understand the drastic difference between a car and a bike when it comes to an accident. If a motorcycle is involved in an accident with a car, the occupants of the car may suffer minor injuries. But on the other hand, the motorcyclist could be on the verge of death. It’s a huge difference, and if the accident was caused by the negligence of the car’s driver, you need to lawyer up.

Aside from the Injuries, What are the Challenges of a Motorcycle Accident?

Most people think the injuries are the end-all of a motorcycle accident. However, the headache only gets worse. You’ll be dealing with stingy insurance companies who want to underpay, and you’ll be dealing with lost wages for every day you aren’t able to clock in at work. Fortunately, this financial burden is manageable if you and your lawyer succeed in pursuing financial damages.

You need all the help you can get if you’re struggling through a motorcycle accident injury. Don’t hesitate to reach out to an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer in Salt Lake City, UT so you can get some much-needed financial compensation. Get in touch with Rasmussen & Miner today, and see how we can help.

Brush Up on Your Motorcycle Skills

Whether you just bought your first motorcycle or you have plenty of years of riding experience under your belt, taking the time to polish your skills and brush up on road safety tips is always a smart idea. All riders should take a motorcycle safety course every few years to make sure that they remain grounded in the basics. These courses cover topics such as riding during adverse weather, traveling through different road conditions, and how to handle when sudden or unexpected events arise. An added benefit to taking a class is that doing so can also lower your insurance premiums.

Aside from honing your biker skills, there are simple steps you should take to protect yourself before any ride. These include making sure your motorcycle is properly maintained and investing in the appropriate safety gear. Wearing a helmet can significantly reduce your risk of debilitating and potentially life-threatening injuries if a crash or collision does occur. Making sure that you don appropriate safety gear and have a clean driving record can also help a Salt Lake City, UT motorcycle accident injury law firm prove that it is unlikely that any accident that occurred was your fault. If you’re a safety-conscious person and your driving record has been clean for several years, it will make even more sense to argue that it is unlikely that you were driving in a reckless manner at the time of a collision. In addition, wear long pants or jeans, motorcycle boots, protective eye gear, and riding gloves at all times. Other ways you can protect yourself on the road include:

Avoid speeding and driving too fast for conditions
Obey all traffic signs and signals
Keep your eyes on the road and your hands on the wheel at all times
Never ride under the influence of alcohol or other substances

Steps Other Drivers Can Take

National statistics show that there are approximately 5,000 people killed each year in motorcycle accidents. In many of these cases, it is the actions of other motorists on the road that are to blame.

Drivers can help by being alert to motorcyclists and giving them the same respect they would any other vehicle on the road. To reduce the risk of collisions, the U.S. Department of Transportation urges drivers to follow these tips:

When going around curves near motorcyclists, be careful not to overlap into their lane
Give motorcyclists behind you plenty of warning if you intend to stop, pass, or make a turn
Double-check blind spots, where motorcyclists can disappear from view
Avoid aggressive driving behaviors, such as following motorcycles too closely

Getting Compensation for Your Motorcycle Accident Injury

If you were injured in a motorcycle accident caused by another driver, you deserve fair compensation for your medical bills, lost wages and other losses. If you hire a reputable lawyer, you can increase your chances of receiving a fair settlement. An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer in Salt Lake City, UT can help you gather necessary evidence, identify witnesses and negotiate with the insurance company.

Schedule a consultation with a motorcycle accident lawyer in Salt Lake City, UT today.

Preparing for a Consultation

A motorcycle accident lawyer can imagine the distress and financial turmoil victims of motorcycle accidents may face because of what happened. It is our job to seek a sense of justice and hopefully help win the maximum compensation possible. In preparation of a legal consultation, we encourage victims to gather paperwork, photographs, police reports, medical records, witness contact details, and anything else related to the accident. With this information, we can evaluate your case and calculate a potential monetary award. The more facts we have, the more effectively we can determine whether pursuing legal action is worth your time and energy. If you come in with a lot of questions, we can ensure you will leave in a confident manner and feel secure about your case. Whether you are a victim yourself, or are a family member who has sustained a motorcycle accident-related injury, you may be entitled to financial compensation for the suffering and pain you have endured. Call a motorcycle accident lawyer in Salt Lake City, Utah from Rasmussen & Miner today for a no-cost initial consultation at (801) 363-8500.