Florence Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Dedicated Legal Support for Injured Riders in Florence, SC
Motorcycles offer an exhilarating sense of freedom on the open roads of Florence, SC. However, that freedom can come with devastating risks when other drivers fail to share the road responsibly. At Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC, our experienced Florence motorcycle accident lawyers represent riders who have been injured due to the carelessness or recklessness of others. We understand the unique challenges motorcyclists face and are committed to securing the justice and compensation you deserve.
Call (803) 599-2207 today or fill out our online contact form to schedule your free consultation. Let us help you get back on the road to recovery.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents in Florence can occur in a wide range of situations. Unlike drivers of passenger vehicles, motorcyclists have little physical protection, making them highly vulnerable in a crash. Here are some of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents we see:
- Left-Turn Accidents: Many crashes occur when a car turns left in front of an oncoming motorcycle, failing to yield the right of way.
- Driver Inattention: Distracted or inattentive drivers often overlook motorcyclists when changing lanes or merging.
- Speeding: High-speed driving reduces reaction time and increases the severity of crashes.
- Impaired Driving: Alcohol or drug-impaired drivers pose a serious threat to motorcyclists.
- Lane Splitting: While not legal in South Carolina, some riders may be struck while attempting to ride between lanes of slow-moving traffic.
- Poor Road Conditions: Potholes, loose gravel, and inadequate signage can cause motorcycles to lose control.
At Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC, we thoroughly investigate each accident to identify all liable parties and hold them accountable for your injuries.
South Carolina Motorcycle Laws
Some key motorcycle regulations in Florence and across the state include:
- Helmet Laws: Riders under age 21 must wear a helmet approved by the Department of Transportation. Riders 21 and older are not legally required to wear helmets, but doing so may help reduce injuries.
- Eye Protection: Regardless of age, motorcyclists must wear approved eye protection unless the bike is equipped with a windscreen.
- Licensing Requirements: All motorcycle riders must have a valid Class M driver’s license or permit.
- Lane Use: Motorcycles are entitled to a full lane just like any other vehicle. Lane splitting is not permitted in South Carolina.
Compensation from a Motorcycle Crash
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident in Florence, SC, you may be entitled to recover damages for:
- Medical Expenses: This includes hospital bills, surgery, physical therapy, medications, and future medical care.
- Lost Wages: If your injuries prevent you from working, you can recover compensation for your lost income.
- Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and diminished quality of life.
- Property Damage: Reimbursement for damage to your motorcycle and other personal property.
- Wrongful Death Damages: If a loved one was killed in a motorcycle crash, surviving family members may be entitled to funeral costs, loss of companionship, and other damages.
Our Florence motorcycle accident attorneys work closely with medical professionals, accident reconstructionists, and financial experts to calculate the full value of your claim.
How Insurance Companies Treat Injured Motorcyclists
Unfortunately, many insurance companies view motorcyclists as “high risk” and are quick to blame them for crashes, even when the motorcyclist is not at fault. Adjusters may minimize your injuries, delay your claim, or offer lowball settlements in the hopes you’ll accept out of desperation.
At Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC, we know how to deal with insurance companies that act in bad faith. Our legal team will protect your rights, handle all communications with the insurer, and fight for the full compensation you deserve—whether at the negotiating table or in the courtroom.
FAQs About Motorcycle Claims in Florence, SC
How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim in South Carolina?
Under South Carolina law, you typically have three years from the date of the accident to file a personal injury lawsuit. However, delays in filing can weaken your case, so it’s crucial to contact a Florence motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible.
What if I wasn’t wearing a helmet?
If you’re over 21, you are not required to wear a helmet in South Carolina. While not wearing a helmet may affect the amount of damages you can recover for head injuries, it does not automatically prevent you from filing a claim.
Can I still recover compensation if I was partially at fault?
Yes. South Carolina follows a modified comparative negligence rule. This means you can still recover damages if you were less than 51% at fault, but your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault.
What should I do after a motorcycle accident?
- Call 911 and report the accident
- Seek immediate medical attention
- Take photographs of the scene, your injuries, and the motorcycle
- Get contact information from witnesses
- Do not speak to the other party’s insurance company without legal representation
- Contact a Florence motorcycle accident attorney at Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC
How much does it cost to hire a motorcycle accident lawyer?
We work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you don’t pay any legal fees unless we win your case. Initial consultations are free.
Speak with a Florence Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today
Motorcycle accidents can leave victims with life-altering injuries, financial strain, and emotional trauma. At Smith Born Leventis Taylor & Vega, LLC, we believe every injured rider deserves strong legal representation and a fair chance at recovery. With deep knowledge of South Carolina law and a proven track record of success, our Florence motorcycle accident lawyers are ready to fight for you.
Contact us today at (803) 599-2207 to let our Florence motorcycle accident lawyers get started on your case.
Our Satisfied Clients
-
“Being involved in a life-changing event is when you realize that we are really not in control of our lives and how we choose to handle it is where we find our character. Thank God for my legal team, Jacob and Erica, and everyone else involved.”- Former Client
-
“George kept me informed and gave loving advice all the way through. I could call him when I needed. He recognized my personal, mental and physical struggles. You can trust in him. GOD knew EXACTLY what he was doing when he made him.”- Former Client
-
“He was patient, listened, considerate, explained things to me that my previous attorney did not, and broke every part of my case down so I was sure to understand every aspect of my case before leaving his office.”- Cassandra J.
-
“Promises were kept and interactions were both personal and professional. I would highly recommend Mr. George and his firm to anyone in need of legal help.”- Former Client
-
“I had a workers compensation claim that my wonderful lawyer Lawton Harper was able to help me with. He was very attentive to detail and was able to get me the maximum claim I deserved!”- Former Client
-
“When my case took a hit from the doctor’s final impairment rating, Danny didn’t give up – he went full force and earned me a fair settlement!”- Former Client
-
“Lawton Harper has been amazing helping me with my works compensation case. He explained everything about what to expect throughout the case and was there for any questions or concerns I had.”- Kai P.
-
“He was very attentive to detail and was able to get me the maximum claim I deserved!”- Former Client
-
$1,225,000 Won
Confidential settlement after our client was involved in a motor vehicle collision with a delivery driver.
-
$700,000 Won
Towns County, GA motor vehicle collision settlement. Defendant fell asleep behind the wheel of his vehicle.
-
$550,000 Won
State court trucking settlement. Client underwent cervical fusion after a rear-end collision in stop-and-go traffic on the interstate.