Driver errors are the leading cause of motorcycle accidents in the United States. These errors can be made by motorcycle riders or by other drivers on the road. In some circumstances, however, neither the motorcycle rider nor any other driver is to blame for a crash. Depending on the specific cause of the accident, a government agency might be liable for the resulting damages.
Driver errors are the leading cause of motorcycle accidents in the United States. These errors can be made by motorcycle riders or by other drivers on the road. In some circumstances, however, neither the motorcycle rider nor any other driver is to blame for a crash. Depending on the specific cause of the accident, a government agency might be liable for the resulting damages.
Below are just a few situations when a motorcyclist may have grounds for a claim against a government entity following an accident:
1. When Poorly Maintained Roads Are to Blame
It doesn’t take much more than a pothole to send a motorcycle—and its rider—to the ground. If you were seriously hurt in a crash that was caused by poorly maintained roads, you may have grounds for a claim against a government entity.
The specific agency you would bring the action against depends on the circumstances of the wreck and on each entity’s responsibilities. For example, while cities typically fill potholes, state agencies maintain the highways.
2. When Dangerous Traffic Patterns Are to Blame
Motorists have an obligation to follow the rules of the road, but even the most diligent riders can be involved in accidents when traffic patterns are unsafe. Unfortunately, some traffic patterns work on paper but prove to be hazardous once they’re implemented. If there’s one part of the city where car accidents always seem to occur, for example, it’s likely that a dangerous traffic pattern is a contributing factor.
Insufficient police presence could also warrant a personal injury claim against the government. While officers cannot be everywhere at all times, they may be obligated to monitor especially dangerous areas, such as those where speeding is common, during the busiest times of the day.
3. When Government Workers Are to Blame
When a government vehicle strikes a motorcyclist, the rider most likely would not sue the driver directly. Instead, he or she would bring a claim against the motorist’s employer.
Government entities can be held responsible for the negligence of their employees through the doctrine of respondent superior. In other words, if the employee was acting within the scope of his or her employment when the accident occurred, the injured party may have grounds for a claim against the agency that employed him or her.
Call (601) 265-7766 to Discuss Your Case with a Jackson Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
If you were hurt in a motorcycle accident and think you may have grounds for a personal injury claim against a government agency, contact Coxwell & Associates. Unlike general practice firms, we limit our scope of practice so we can provide the most comprehensive and effective counsel possible.
We have extensive experience and a track record of success bringing tort claims against government entities in Mississippi. We are well-versed in the nuances of these cases and will use proven legal strategies to help you pursue the highest settlement possible. Call (601) 265-7766 or use our Online Contact Form to set up a free case evaluation with a motorcycle accident attorney in Jackson.
Disclaimer: This blog is intended as general information purposes only, and is not a substitute for legal advice. Anyone with a legal problem should consult a lawyer immediately.