The rate of motorcycle accidents-including ones involving fatalities-has been growing for a while, despite better safety education, stricter helmet laws, and better made bikes. Many factors contribute to motorcycle accidents. Sometimes the fault lies in the inattentiveness of a biker, sometimes alcohol or drugs play a role, and occasionally damaged equipment is to blame. Commonly, however, an accident is the result of inattention by other drivers.

Sure, motorcycles are smaller than other vehicles, but they are not invisible! People always say that motorcyclists "appeared out of nowhere!" as if they just materialized out of thin air! "I didn't see you coming!" is not a helpful explanation to a motorcyclist you just pulverized while making a left turn in front of him.

When you have had a wreck on a motorcycle, if if not too badly injured you should get the name, license number, and insurance company information from the other driver. Always see a doctor at once, even if you think you are okay. Accidents should be reported to your insurance company, and it is also a smart idea to consult a motorcycle attorney.

Even if you think you can get a fair settlement on your own, it is always advisable to consult a motorcycle lawyer. For one thing, there is often a time limit on filing a claim. For another, an experienced motorcycle lawyer can almost always win a higher settlement than a layperson can. When you consider that most lawyers offer free consultations and some receive no fees until a case is settled, you really have nothing to lose.

Being involved in any kind of a traffic accident is bad enough, but there is something particularly stomach-turning about the vulnerability of a motorcyclist in an accident. Physical and emotional recovery after motorcycle accidents is hard enough without adding the demands of managing a settlement. Turn your case over to a professional, and conserve your energy for healing.