Columbia, SC – Motorcyclists in South Carolina face increased risks on the road, often due to the negligence of other drivers. Despite efforts to increase awareness, motorcycle crashes frequently result in severe injury or death—and many of these incidents could have been avoided. McWhirter, Bellinger & Associates, Attorneys at Law, offers legal representation to riders injured in motorcycle accidents, helping them seek fair compensation for injuries, medical expenses, and long-term damages.
Motorcycle Accidents: Who Is Typically at Fault?
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to die in a crash than occupants of passenger vehicles. Yet, data shows that many of these collisions are caused by other drivers, not the motorcyclists themselves.
One of the most common causes of motorcycle crashes is that drivers fail to see motorcycles. This often occurs because of distraction—such as texting—or relying solely on peripheral vision. However, not seeing a motorcycle is no excuse. Drivers are trained to look for smaller vehicles, and South Carolina law treats motorcycles with the same rights as any other vehicle on the road.
Negligent driving behaviors that often lead to motorcycle accidents include:
- Distracted driving
- Failing to check blind spots
- Unsafe lane changes
- Left-hand turns in front of motorcycles
- Following motorcycles too closely
- Impaired or intoxicated driving
When a motorcyclist is hit because of another driver’s carelessness, they are often left facing serious injuries and significant financial burdens.
Lane Splitting and South Carolina Law
Lane splitting—the act of riding a motorcycle between lanes of traffic—is illegal in South Carolina under SC Code Section 56-5-3640. While riders caught lane splitting may be ticketed, this does not automatically make them entirely at fault in an accident.
South Carolina follows a comparative negligence system, meaning a motorcyclist can still recover damages if they are less than 51% at fault. For example, if a motorcyclist is lane splitting and a car makes an illegal left turn, both parties may share responsibility. In such cases, the damages awarded would be reduced based on the rider’s percentage of fault.
These legal nuances are why hiring an attorney is essential—especially in cases involving disputed liability. McWhirter, Bellinger & Associates provides legal support for riders involved in these complicated scenarios, working to present strong evidence and protect clients from unfair blame.
Common Injuries from Motorcycle Crashes
Motorcycle accidents often lead to catastrophic or life-altering injuries, including:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord damage
- Amputation or disfigurement
- Severe orthopedic injuries
- Permanent disability
- Wrongful death
Due to the lack of structural protection, even low-speed motorcycle crashes can have devastating consequences. The attorneys at McWhirter, Bellinger & Associates understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll these injuries can take.
How an Attorney Can Help After a Motorcycle Crash
When a motorcyclist is injured because of someone else’s negligence, the legal process can be overwhelming. Insurance companies often attempt to shift blame or minimize payouts. A skilled South Carolina motorcycle accident lawyer investigates the crash, examines police reports, secures medical documentation, and, when needed, brings in accident reconstruction experts.
- Legal counsel can help clients:
- Prove the other party’s fault
- Push back against unfair insurance practices
- Calculate a fair value for medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering
- Represent their interests in court if a settlement isn’t reached
Victims are encouraged to speak with a lawyer before accepting any settlement offer, as initial proposals rarely account for long-term care, future income loss, or emotional trauma.
McWhirter, Bellinger & Associates provides personal injury legal services to clients in Columbia, Lexington, Sumter, Aiken, Orangeburg, Newberry, Camden, and throughout the state of South Carolina.
?? For a free case evaluation, contact the South Carolina Motorcycle Accident Lawyer at McWhirter, Bellinger & Associates at 803-592-9850.
With years of experience representing injured motorcyclists, the firm offers compassionate legal support while working to pursue fair compensation under South Carolina law.
