Cumberland Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Motorcycling provides an unparalleled sense of freedom, but you need to acknowledge the inherent risks. If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident, seek legal guidance from a Cumberland motorcycle accident lawyer from Gemma Law Firm. We can help you secure the compensation you need to fund your recovery.

Our Cumberland personal injury lawyer is experienced in securing justice and compensation for injured riders. For almost fifty years, we have supported injury victims in Rhode Island, demonstrating our unwavering commitment to achieving favorable outcomes for our clients.

Contact us today for a free case consultation and to get started.

Motorcycle Accidents in Cumberland, Rhode Island

Motorcycle accidents in Cumberland and across Rhode Island are occurring at a concerning frequency. According to the Rhode Island Department of Transportation, in the United States, motorcyclists are roughly 28 times more likely to experience a fatality than people in cars. Safe riding practices, including wearing a helmet and overall higher awareness of motorcyclists on the road, can help these numbers.

Several factors contribute to this elevated risk. Data reveals that 40% of motorcycle fatalities occur in situations where riders were unhelmeted, highlighting the critical role of head protection.

Furthermore, alcohol and/or drug impairment play a substantial role in rider deaths, with 61% of fatal crashes involving substance use.

While motorcycle accidents can occur anywhere, Providence County has unfortunately witnessed the highest number of fatalities. This data emphasizes the need for Cumberland riders to have a heightened awareness and be proactive with safety measures. 

Riding motorcycles is inherently dangerous due to the minimal protection offered by the vehicle, so wearing a helmet remains one of the most crucial safety measures a motorcyclist can take to mitigate the risk of severe injury or death.

Helmet Laws in Rhode Island

Rhode Island does not require motorcycle helmets by law for all riders. The state previously had a universal helmet law in place, but it was repealed in 1976. However, there are still specific motorcycle helmet laws for certain groups. 

All riders under the age of 21 are legally obligated to wear helmets. Additionally, any rider who has held a license to ride a motorcycle for less than one year must also wear a helmet when operating a motorcycle. The law mandates all passengers on motorcycles, regardless of their age or the rider’s experience level, must wear helmets.

Rhode Island Motorcycle Equipment Laws

To legally operate a motorcycle on Rhode Island roadways, your motorcycle must meet certain equipment requirements and undergo an annual inspection. Under Rhode Island motorcycle laws, your motorcycle must be assessed yearly to ensure its roadworthiness and safety. 

This inspection will assess for any significant damage sustained or dangerous modifications made in the previous year and confirm that the motorcycle remains in proper operating condition.

All motorcycles must have a horn, handlebars, properly functioning wheels and tires, turn signals, brake lights, and front and rear brakes. Be sure to protect yourself by making it a priority to get your annual inspection. If you have further questions about how this could relate to your motorcycle accident, consult our lawyers.

How Our Cumberland Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Determine Liability

In the aftermath of a motorcycle crash, proving the other driver’s negligence is crucial for recovering damages. Under Rhode Island law, the injured rider typically is the one required to demonstrate that the other party’s actions or inactions directly caused the accident and, subsequently, their injuries. The fault is determined in a motorcycle accident claim by establishing that the other driver was negligent.

At Gemma Law Firm, our experienced Cumberland motorcycle accident attorney will meticulously investigate your case to establish proof of liability. You will need a strong case of evidence. Some of the most critical pieces of evidence our motorcycle accident lawyers use include:

• Accident reconstruction
• Police and crash reports
• Medical evidence and documentation
• Photos and videos from the crash scene
• The defendant’s records and test results
• Dashcam, CCTV, or traffic camera footage

Recovering Your Losses After a Motorcycle Accident

A motorcycle accident changes your life in an instant, causing both physical and financial hardship. Our motorcycle accident lawyer in Cumberland is dedicated to helping you recover the full compensation you need and deserve for your losses. We will diligently pursue compensation for all your losses, both economic and non-economic, including:

• Emotional distress
• Lost wages
• Medical expenses
• Out-of-pocket expenses
• Pain and suffering
• Property damage
• Travel costs

Insurance companies often prioritize their own profits over injury victims and may attempt to undervalue your claim or deny it outright. Do not let insurance companies’ bottom lines dictate the outcome of your claim.

Our attorneys will aggressively advocate for your rights and ensure you receive the full compensation you deserve, which could include coverage for medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.

Deadlines for Your Cumberland Motorcycle Accident Claim

Delaying legal action can significantly impact your ability to recover full compensation. Evidence can degrade over time, witness memories may fade, and crucial deadlines can be missed. The sooner you file, the sooner you may receive compensation for your medical bills and to support you through your recovery.

Rhode Island General Laws § 9-1-36 establishes a time limit for pursuing compensation for your injury after a motorcycle accident. This legal deadline, known as the statute of limitations, generally provides a three-year window to file a lawsuit. While the standard timeframe is three years, specific circumstances may allow for an extension of this deadline. 

For instance, if your initial injuries were not properly diagnosed or treated within the three-year window, the court may grant you an extension to allow you to file your claim.

If you had a hit-and-run and the accident report fails to identify the responsible driver within the three-year timeframe, you may also be eligible for an extension of the deadline. 

Consult an experienced motorcycle accident attorney in Cumberland to determine if you are eligible to pursue compensation and that your claim is filed within the appropriate timeframe.

Get Legal Help for Your Cumberland Motorcycle Crash

If you have been injured in a motorcycle accident in Cumberland, Rhode Island, do not hesitate to contact Gemma Law Firm. Our team has over 100 years of combined experience and is ready to use that knowledge to fight for your rights and help you navigate the legal process confidently. 

Contact our offices today to set up a free, no-obligation case consultation to get started.