Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Columbia

Skilled Legal Representation for Motorcycle Accident Claims in South Carolina 

If you’re reading this, chances are that you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident. First and foremost, we understand how difficult this time can be. The physical pain, emotional distress, and financial burden can be overwhelming, and you may feel lost and uncertain about what to do next.

That’s where we come in.

At Smith, Born, Leventis, Taylor & Vega, we represent individuals injured in motorcycle accidents. We understand the unique challenges motorcyclists face on the road and the prejudice they often experience despite being the victims of another driver’s negligence.

That’s why we’re here to help you fight for your legal rights and seek the compensation you deserve.

When you choose us to represent you, you can rest assured that you’ll have a dedicated and experienced legal team.

Our South Carolina personal injury attorneys are committed to delivering customized legal representation to every client we serve. We have a proven history of obtaining the highest possible compensation for motorcyclists who have suffered injuries because of someone else’s negligence.

We won’t rest until we’ve achieved the best possible outcome for you and your family, just like we’ve done for countless other motorcycle accident victims throughout South Carolina.

Have you or a loved one been involved in a motorcycle accident? Our experienced motorcycle accident lawyers in Columbia are here to fight for the compensation you deserve. Call Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC today at (803) 599-2207 or contact us online for a FREE consultation.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle crashes can happen for many reasons, but most stem from driver negligence. Some of the most frequent causes we see include:

• Driver Failing to Yield: One of the most common causes is a driver turning left in front of a motorcycle. Many motorists misjudge a rider’s speed, distance, or simply fail to see them.
• Distracted Driving: Drivers using phones, GPS devices, or other distractions may drift into a motorcyclist’s lane or fail to notice a stopped or slowing rider.
• Following Too Closely: Motorcycles can stop more quickly than passenger vehicles. Tailgating often leads to rear-end collisions, which can eject the rider.
• Unsafe Lane Changes: Drivers who fail to check their mirrors or blind spots often sideswipe motorcyclists.
• Road Hazards: Loose gravel, debris, potholes, grass clippings, and uneven pavement can send a rider into a dangerous skid.
• Drunk or Drug-Impaired Driving: Impaired drivers have slowed reaction times and impaired judgment, increasing the risk of catastrophic crashes.

If negligence contributed to your accident, Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC will work to identify all responsible parties and pursue compensation on your behalf.

Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Motorcycle accident injuries can be severe, life-changing, and costly. Some of the most common injuries we see include:

• Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBI): Even with a helmet, riders can suffer concussions or more severe brain injuries.
• Road Rash: Road rash is more than a minor scrape—severe cases may require skin grafts and long-term rehabilitation.
• Broken Bones: Arms, legs, ribs, and wrists are particularly vulnerable during a crash.
• Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spinal cord can lead to paralysis, chronic pain, or long-lasting mobility challenges.
• Internal Injuries: Impact with the ground or another vehicle can cause dangerous internal bleeding or organ damage.
• Disfigurement or Amputation: Crashes involving high speeds or crushing forces can permanently alter a rider’s life.

Our firm understands the long-term consequences of motorcycle injuries and fights for the full compensation that victims deserve.

South Carolina Motorcycle Laws

South Carolina has several laws that affect motorcycle accident claims. Understanding these regulations can help protect your rights:

• Helmet Laws: In South Carolina, riders under 21 must wear a helmet. Riders 21 and older are not legally required to wear one. Importantly, not wearing a helmet does not prevent a rider from filing a claim.
• Motorcycle Endorsement: Riders must have a motorcycle endorsement or a motorcycle license to operate legally.
• Lane Splitting: Lane splitting—riding between lanes of traffic—is illegal in South Carolina.
• Comparative Negligence Rule: South Carolina uses modified comparative negligence, which means you can recover compensation as long as you are less than 51% at fault for the accident. Your compensation is reduced by your level of fault, if any.

Our Columbia motorcycle accident lawyer at Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC can help explain how these laws apply to your specific situation and how to maximize your recovery.

Compensation for Injured Motorcyclists

If you were injured in a motorcycle crash caused by another party’s negligence, you may be able to pursue compensation for:

Economic Damages

• Medical bills (current and future)
• Rehabilitation and therapy
• Lost wages
• Reduced earning capacity

Property damage (motorcycle repairs or replacement)

Non-Economic Damages

• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Scarring or disfigurement

Wrongful Death Damages

If a loved one was fatally injured, surviving family members may recover funeral expenses, lost financial support, and other damages.

Insurance companies often stereotype motorcyclists as reckless, leading to unfair blame or low settlement offers. Our firm pushes back aggressively against these tactics to ensure you receive fair compensation.

Common Misconceptions About Motorcycle Accident Claims

One of the prevalent misconceptions about motorcycle accident claims is that they are straightforward and require little legal guidance, but this couldn’t be further from the truth. Claims can be complex due to the nature of motorcycle accidents, which often result in serious injuries impacting long-term well-being and financial stability. Another common myth is that filing a claim will automatically be insurmountable because of perceived bias against motorcyclists; however, with a well-presented case, fair compensation is achievable.

It's also widely believed that riders without helmets cannot make claims for injuries sustained in accidents. While helmet use can influence the outcome of a claim and any compensation awarded, it does not negate the right to seek damages entirely. The efficacy of a claim significantly increases with professional legal guidance in navigating these complexities.

Motorcycle Accident Claim FAQs

How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim in South Carolina?

You generally have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. Some cases have shorter deadlines, so it’s best to act quickly.

Do I need a lawyer for a motorcycle accident claim?

Yes. Motorcycle cases involve bias from insurance companies, complex injuries, and multiple potential liable parties. An attorney protects your rights and handles negotiations, evidence gathering, and legal strategy.

Can I still recover damages if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?

Yes. South Carolina law does not bar recovery for riders over 21 who choose not to wear a helmet.

What if the other driver blames me?

You can still recover compensation as long as you’re less than 51% responsible. We work to prove the true cause of the crash.

How much is my motorcycle accident case worth?

Your case value depends on factors such as injury severity, medical costs, lost income, and long-term impact. Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC can evaluate your claim during a free consultation.

Contact Our Motorcycle Accident Attorneys in Columbia Today

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, you must hire an experienced motorcycle accident attorney in Columbia to protect your rights. At Smith, Born, Leventis, Taylor & Vega, our accident attorneys will gather evidence to support your claim and negotiate with insurance companies to get maximum financial compensation.

Our team of skilled lawyers will handle every aspect of your claim so you can focus on your recovery. We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay us anything unless we secure a favorable outcome. 

If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, don’t wait to seek legal help. Reach out to our skilled motorcycle accident lawyers in Columbia now to discuss your case and explore your legal options.