Do Motorcycle Passengers Have Legal Options After an Accident?
If you were in an accident involving a motorcycle, liability is often cut and dry. The negligent driver is going to be liable for the crash, which means you can file a lawsuit and seek damages. But say you were a passenger on the motorcycle at the time of the accident. Will you be able to file a lawsuit?
Yes, motorcycle passengers can sue for damages. Who they seek damages from is not always straightforward, though.
The team at G.R. Akin, P.C. in Longview, TX, would like to consider legal options for motorcycle passengers who were injured in a crash. This should answer some common questions you may have if you were in a collision.
Motorcycle and Scooter Passengers Can File an Accident Lawsuit
Much like passengers in a car accident, passengers on a motorcycle can potentially file a lawsuit following a collision. This can be a separate legal claim from the person who was operating the motorcycle.
Similarly, if a motorcycle passenger is killed in a fatal crash, the surviving loved ones can file a wrongful death lawsuit.
Who Can a Motorcycle Passenger Sue for Damages?
The liable party in a crash can vary, which is why it’s important to meet with our lawyers in Longview for a consultation.
Here are a few common parties who are taken to task in court for negligence in a motorcycle crash.
The Negligent Motorist Who Caused the Crash
If your accident was caused by another driver, you can file a lawsuit against them for their reckless actions. This covers drivers of passenger vehicles as well as tractor-trailer drivers, bus drivers, and delivery truck drivers.
The Local Municipality Who Failed to Maintain the Road
When poor road conditions contribute to or cause an accident, you can hold the local authorities accountable for failing to maintain the roadways. This can address everything from potholes and poor lighting to debris in the road that should have been cleared.
The Automaker for Design Defects and Safety Issues
A scooter or motorcycle that is poorly designed could lead to accidents. The same goes for faulty tires or other poorly manufactured motorcycle parts. A lawyer can help you file a product liability claim against the negligent company.
The Person Operating the Motorcycle During the Crash
Sometimes the person who was operating the motorcycle is responsible for the crash. This covers intoxicated driving, speeding, reckless driving, and other dangerous behaviors. The person steering and operating the motorcycle should exercise responsibility and keep riders safe.
What an Accident Settlement or Damages Can Cover
When seeking compensation after a crash, the settlement or damages sought can cover medical bills, lost wages, the cost of future physical rehabilitation, and other changes to your livelihood and quality of life.
During a consultation, we can help you understand how much your legal claim is worth.
Contact Our Injury Accident Lawyers Today
If you were injured while riding with someone on a motorcycle, it’s important that you discuss what happened with an attorney. To learn more about your legal options, contact our law office in Longview.
