Larry R. Williams, PLLC has represented numerous clients who have been seriously injured in Tennessee motorcycle accidents.

What Rights and Responsibilities Do I Have As A Motorcyclist?

Motorcyclists in Tennessee have the same rights and responsibilities as persons operating an automobile or other vehicle. This means that motorcycle drivers must comply with all applicable traffic regulations including the rules of the road. Motorcyclists have a duty to operate their motorcycles in a reasonably safe manner under any circumstance. The driver of a motorcycle also must exercise due care in the operation of his/her motorcycle.

Am I Required By Law To Wear A Helmet?

In Tennessee, the driver of a motorcycle and their passenger, if any, are required to wear a crash helmet of a type meeting federal standards, or if the driver or passenger is 21 years of age and older, a crash helmet meeting the requirements set forth in Tennessee Code Annotated S 55-9-302. It is a Class C misdemeanor for a motorcycle driver and passenger to not wear an approved crash helmet. It is also a Class C misdemeanor for a parent or guardian to knowingly allow a minor to abstain from wearing a helmet while operating a motorcycle.

What Damages May Be Recoverable If You Are Injured In A Motorcycle Accident?

Each Tennessee motorcycle accident is different, so damages will vary depending on the facts of your case. The following is a list of damages that may be recoverable if you are seriously injured in a Tennessee motorcycle collision:

• Past and future physical pain and suffering;
• Past and future emotional suffering and distress;
• Past and future health care expenses (medical bills);
• Past and future loss of enjoyment of life;
• Lost wages and loss of future earning capacity;
• Permanent impairment, scarring and disfigurement;
• Filing fees associated with filing a lawsuit.

Is My Spouse Entitled to Anything If I am Injured in a Tennessee Motorcycle Wreck?

Generally a spouse of a victim seriously injured, maimed or killed in a motorcycle wreck is entitled to monies known as consortium damages. Consortium damages include both tangible services provided by a family member, as well as intangible benefits each family member receives from the continued existence of other family members. Such intangible benefits include love, affection, attention, education, guidance, care, protection, training, companionship and cooperation that the spouse would reasonably be certain to have received had the spouse not been seriously injured, maimed or killed in a Tennessee motorcycle accident.

I Was A Passenger In A Motorcycle Accident Caused by The Motorcycle Driver, Can I Recover Anything?

Tennessee requires motorcycle drivers to maintain liability insurance or proof of financial responsibility. Unfortunately the discovery of insurance policy limits is not allowed in Tennessee.

What If I Am Partially At Fault For The Accident?

Tennessee has a modified comparative fault system. An injured motorcyclist who is partially at fault for the accident can still recover so long as their fault remains less than the negligence of a third party. Specifically, if you are more than 50% at fault for an accident, then you will not be able to recover. If you are 50% or less at fault, then your damage award is reduced by the percentage of your negligence.

How Long Do I Have To Bring Or File My Claim?

In Tennessee, there are restrictions on the amount of time you have to bring and/or file a claim for Tennessee motorcycle accident cases. If you have been seriously injured in a Tennessee motorcycle wreck it is imperative that you contact Larry R. Williams, Jonathan Williams and their staff to assist you with your claim today.

If you have been seriously injured or have lost a loved one in Tennessee motorcycle accident, please contact the experienced motorcycle accident attorneys at Larry R. Williams, PLLC today by calling (615) 256-8880.