It’s no secret that alcohol and drugs can affect a driver’s ability to make good decisions. This is true for motorcycle riders as well. Driving under the influence can easily lead to a motorcycle accident. If you got hurt in a crash and you believe that someone else was to blame, you may be owed compensation. A Prince George’s County motorcycle accident lawyer from our firm can help you learn more about your options.
How Can Alcohol and Drugs Affect Drivers and Motorcyclists?
According to some recent studies, the usage of alcohol and drugs could contribute to somewhere between 42% and 50% of motorcycle accidents. When you think about how these substances can affect us, that should not be much of a surprise. Alcohol and drugs can:
- Slow down reaction time
- Harm judgment
- Impair vision
- Affect coordination and balance
If you’re a motorcyclist, this is especially dangerous. You may struggle to stay up on your bike. You could end up driving too fast and being unable to react to changing traffic or road conditions. A car, truck, or SUV driver who is driving under the influence can also be a danger to someone riding a motorcycle.
What Are Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents?
Motorcycle accidents can be especially dangerous for motorcycle riders and pedestrians. Some common outcomes include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Road rash
- Broken and fractured bones
- Organ damage
- Internal bleeding
- Spinal cord injuries
Can I Sue If Alcohol and Drugs Contributed to My Accident?
If you believe that someone else was negligent and that his negligence caused your injuries, then you should sue for damages. If you think that another driver was using alcohol and drugs, then that is an especially good reason to sue. Any record of their substance use can help you build your case. You can sue for compensation that helps make up for your medical expenses, lost wages, and any other pain and suffering you experienced as a result of the crash.
Just keep in mind that you cannot sue if you contributed to the accident in any way. If you were the one who used alcohol and drugs before getting behind the wheel or on a bike, then you’re probably going to receive at least part of the blame for the crash. That stops you from receiving compensation.
Do I Need a Personal Injury Attorney?
We do recommend hiring an attorney. A personal injury attorney can negotiate with insurers and help you fight for fair compensation. Pursuing damages on your own can be difficult because:
- It’s difficult to prove negligence, even when alcohol and drugs are involved
- The other side could accuse you of wrongdoing, making it difficult to sue for damages
- Attorneys have an easier time securing evidence like surveillance footage
Schedule Your Consultation
When you’re ready to explore your legal options, contact McCarthy, Winkelman & Mester, L.L.P. and schedule an appointment with our team. We can offer you a free case consultation with no obligation. So take the time to learn more about how we can help you secure compensation.
