When Your Back Is Against The Wall

Mount Pleasant Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Mount Pleasant offers scenic coastal highways and pleasant year-round weather that makes it a haven for motorcyclists. But even the most experienced riders can find themselves in a dangerous situation when negligent drivers, poor road maintenance, or defective parts come into play. Without the protection of a vehicle frame, airbags, or seat belts, motorcyclists are uniquely vulnerable in a crash.

At Lanier Law Group, we understand how devastating a motorcycle accident can be. We’ve helped riders across South Carolina recover the compensation they need after life-altering injuries. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle crash in Mount Pleasant, our experienced attorneys are ready to go the distance for you.

What Makes Motorcycle Accidents So Dangerous?

Motorcycle accidents differ from car accidents in key ways. Riders have far less physical protection, meaning even low-speed crashes can result in catastrophic injuries. These accidents often come with a higher risk of fatality or life-altering harm, not only because of the direct impact but also because riders are frequently thrown from their bikes.

Lack of Visibility

Motorcycles are smaller and harder to see, especially in blind spots or poor lighting. Drivers often fail to check their surroundings thoroughly, leading to collisions during lane changes or turns. Failure to yield is one of the most cited causes in these crashes.

Driver Negligence

Many crashes happen because drivers fail to yield, don’t check mirrors, speed excessively, or engage in reckless behavior. Distracted driving, such as texting or adjusting a GPS, can divert attention away from motorcyclists who may already be harder to spot.

Road Hazards

Potholes, loose gravel, slick surfaces, and uneven pavement pose serious risks to riders. While cars might cruise over these hazards with little effect, motorcyclists can lose control instantly, resulting in a high-speed slide or direct impact.

Vehicle Malfunction

A defective tire, faulty brake system, or mechanical failure can easily result in a crash. For motorcycles, even a small defect can cause a complete loss of control. Faulty manufacturing or improper maintenance may make manufacturers or repair shops liable for injuries.

Our attorneys understand these risks and know how to investigate the unique dynamics of motorcycle crashes.

To get started, call 919-342-1368 today.

Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents

Because riders are so exposed, motorcycle crashes often lead to serious injuries, including:

Traumatic Brain Injuries

Head trauma is one of the most common and devastating outcomes of a motorcycle crash, especially when helmets are not worn. Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs) can range from concussions to severe brain damage, affecting cognition, memory, motor function, and mood. Victims may require lifelong care and rehabilitation.

Spinal Cord Injuries and Paralysis

A spinal cord injury can result in partial or complete paralysis, such as paraplegia or quadriplegia. These injuries are often permanent and can drastically reduce quality of life. They also come with ongoing costs for home modifications, mobility devices, and personal assistance.

Road Rash and Soft Tissue Damage

When a rider is thrown from a bike and slides across pavement, the friction can strip away skin and soft tissue—commonly known as road rash. Severe cases may require skin grafts and lead to permanent scarring, infection, or nerve damage.

Broken Bones

Fractures are especially common in the legs, arms, and pelvis due to the rider’s exposure. Multiple breaks may occur in a single accident and can lead to complex surgeries, lengthy hospital stays, and limited mobility during recovery.

Internal Organ Damage

High-impact collisions can cause internal bleeding or injuries to vital organs such as the liver, lungs, or kidneys. These injuries are often not visible right away and may require emergency surgery and intensive monitoring.

Amputations

In the most catastrophic cases, limbs may be so badly crushed or injured that amputation is necessary. Beyond the physical toll, this type of injury has profound psychological and lifestyle implications.

These injuries often require long-term medical care, surgeries, and rehabilitation. Some may result in permanent disability or loss of income. Our job is to make sure those damages are fully accounted for in your case.

What Causes Motorcycle Accidents in Mount Pleasant?

Mount Pleasant is home to a mix of scenic backroads and congested highways. Unfortunately, those same roads can become dangerous due to careless drivers or poor infrastructure. Common causes of local motorcycle accidents include:

Left-Turn Collisions

One of the most frequent types of crashes involving motorcycles occurs when a car turns left in front of an oncoming rider. The driver often claims they “didn’t see them,” even though the rider had the right of way.

Distracted Drivers

Texting, talking on the phone, or adjusting navigation systems can easily cause a driver to miss a nearby motorcycle. Even a moment of inattention can result in a devastating crash.

Speeding and Reckless Driving

Drivers who tailgate, weave through traffic, or drive too fast for conditions put riders at serious risk. High speeds increase both the likelihood and severity of a collision.

Impaired Driving

Alcohol and drugs impair judgment and reaction times, making it much harder for drivers to notice and safely interact with motorcycles. Impaired driving is a major factor in many fatal crashes involving riders.

Unsafe Road Conditions

Debris, poor lighting, missing signage, or potholes can all contribute to serious motorcycle crashes. These hazards may seem minor to cars but can be deadly for someone on two wheels.

We investigate the circumstances of each crash thoroughly, using police reports, witness statements, traffic footage, and accident reconstruction experts when needed.

Who Can Be Held Liable for a Motorcycle Crash?

Establishing fault is crucial in any personal injury case. South Carolina follows a modified comparative negligence rule, meaning you can still recover damages as long as you’re less than 51% at fault for the crash. However, your recovery will be reduced by your percentage of fault.

In a Mount Pleasant motorcycle accident case, potentially liable parties may include:

Negligent drivers: Most often, the driver of another vehicle is responsible.
Employers of commercial drivers: If the at-fault driver was working at the time, their employer may share liability.
Government agencies: If poor road maintenance or unsafe signage played a role, a city or county agency may be liable.
Product manufacturers: If the accident was caused by a mechanical failure, the vehicle or parts manufacturer may be held accountable.

Lanier Law Group investigates every angle to determine exactly who should be held responsible.

Damages Available in a Motorcycle Accident Claim

Motorcycle crashes can upend your life financially, physically, and emotionally. At Lanier Law Group, we fight to recover every category of compensation available under South Carolina law.

Economic Damages

Economic damages cover tangible losses directly related to the accident. This includes emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, surgeries, rehabilitation, medications, and any ongoing or future medical care. Lost wages from time off work and diminished earning potential due to permanent disability also fall under this category. Additionally, property damage for your motorcycle and riding gear may be included.

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages account for the physical and emotional pain a crash leaves behind. These may include compensation for pain and suffering, emotional distress, mental anguish, disfigurement, and loss of enjoyment of life. These damages are often more difficult to quantify, but they are no less important in restoring dignity and stability.

Punitive Damages

In rare but serious cases, punitive damages may be awarded to punish especially reckless or intentional behavior. For instance, if the driver who hit you was under the influence or driving aggressively at extreme speeds, punitive damages could apply. These damages are not tied to your specific losses but serve as a deterrent and form of accountability for gross misconduct.

We work with medical experts, life care planners, and economists to understand your current and future needs, ensuring nothing is left off the table.

Motorcycle Laws in South Carolina That Could Affect Your Case

South Carolina has specific laws governing motorcycles, and violations of those laws could impact your claim. Some important rules include:

Helmet Law

South Carolina requires riders under 21 to wear a helmet approved by the Department of Public Safety. While riders 21 and over are not legally required to wear helmets, choosing not to wear one could still affect your case. If you suffer a head injury and weren’t wearing a helmet, the defense may argue that your own actions contributed to the severity of your injuries. While this doesn’t automatically bar you from recovering damages, it could reduce the amount you receive under South Carolina’s comparative negligence rules.

Lane Splitting

Lane splitting—the practice of riding between lanes of stopped or slow-moving cars—is illegal in South Carolina. If a crash occurs while lane splitting, it could complicate your claim. Insurance companies often use this violation to argue that the rider was acting recklessly, which may reduce the compensation available depending on the circumstances.

Licensing Requirements

All motorcycle operators in South Carolina are required to have a valid motorcycle license or endorsement. Riding without one not only risks legal penalties but may also be used by insurance companies as a reason to dispute or devalue your claim. However, lack of a license does not automatically mean you can’t recover damages—it’s just another factor that may come into play.

Even if you were partially at fault or cited for a violation, you may still be able to recover compensation. We fight back against insurers who try to shift blame unfairly.

Mistakes to Avoid After a Motorcycle Accident

What you do—or don’t do—after a motorcycle accident can significantly affect your legal and financial recovery. Avoiding the following common mistakes can help protect your rights:

Not Seeking Immediate Medical Attention

Even if you feel fine, internal injuries, concussions, or spinal trauma may not be obvious right away. Delaying medical care can not only endanger your health but also make it harder to link your injuries to the crash when you file a claim.

Failing to Call the Police

Always report the accident. A police report creates a crucial piece of documentation that insurance adjusters and courts rely on. It includes contact details, witness statements, and sometimes a preliminary assessment of fault.

Admitting Fault at the Scene

Saying “I’m sorry” or speculating about what happened can be interpreted as an admission of guilt. Stick to the facts and let the investigation determine responsibility.

Not Gathering Evidence

If you’re physically able, take photos of your motorcycle, your injuries, the other vehicle, skid marks, and any hazards on the road. Collect contact information from witnesses and save any dashcam footage or receipts.

Speaking to Insurance Companies Without Legal Counsel

Insurance adjusters often try to get you to make statements or accept lowball settlements early in the process. Don’t sign anything or give a recorded statement without speaking to an attorney who understands motorcycle accident law.

Posting on Social Media

Avoid posting about your accident or recovery online. Insurance companies may monitor your social media and use posts out of context to downplay your injuries or contradict your claim.

By avoiding these missteps and working with an experienced attorney, you give yourself the best chance of securing full compensation for your injuries and losses.

Why Choose Lanier Law Group?

Motorcycle accident cases aren’t just personal injury cases—they require an understanding of rider dynamics, common biases, and serious injury recovery. At Lanier Law Group, we bring:

Decades of experience representing injured motorcyclists across South Carolina
A reputation for taking cases to trial when insurance companies won’t offer fair settlements
Access to top accident reconstructionists and medical experts you might need in building the strongest case possible
Compassionate, clear communication so you always know where your case stands

We operate on a contingency fee basis, which means you owe nothing unless we win. Our goal is to help you get the justice you deserve without adding more financial stress to your life.

Injured in a Mount Pleasant Motorcycle Accident? Schedule a Free Consultation Today

You’ve already been through one of the most traumatic experiences of your life. Let us handle the legal fight so you can focus on healing.

If you were injured in a motorcycle accident in Mount Pleasant or the surrounding area, call Lanier Law Group today at 919-342-1368 or contact us online for a free consultation. We’re ready to step in, step up, and go the distance for you.

Your road to recovery starts now. Call 919-342-1368 or contact us online for a free consultation. Let us take on the legal battle so you can focus on healing and moving forward.

We Won't Back Down

Lanier Law Group is Here When Results Matter Most

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Mount Pleasant

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*Featured Case Results, Settlements, & Trial Wins From Our Attorneys

$4.8 Million

Settlement

A case with multiple plaintiffs who were potentially exposed to a deadly disease while in the hospital.

$3.1 Million

Birth Injury/Hypoxic Brain Injury

The OB doctor’s negligence caused a delay in the baby’s birth which resulted in the baby suffering of a severe hypoxic brain injury.

$1.375 Million

Medication Overdose/Hospital Negligence

Our client died following an overdose of medication that occurred as a result of the negligence of the nursery staff while they were in the hospital.

$1.2 Million

Birth Injury/Developmental Delay

Our client suffers from a severe developmental delay following a birth injury when there were signs of fetal distress that were not responded to.

$500,000

Botched Gall Bladder Surgery

Our client suffered an injury to their common bile duct during a laparoscopic cholecystectomy.

$425,000

Surgical Error

A client had their bowel perforated during a ventral hernia repair.

We Never Back Down From a Fight

Featured Reviews, Testimonials & Results

"20 out of 10 stars."

There are times in your life you are so hurt and feel life has a grudge against you. Nothing in your life is going right. I lost the most important person in my life to death, of which I knew mistakes were made because I witnessed it with my own eyes. When you contact a law group you most of the time get all business and a matter of fact conversation. I want all to know that from the first phone call they listened to my lengthy story, sobbing most of the time with so much compassion. They never made any promises but offered assurances that no stone would be unturned. They fulfilled every word they said. They restored faith that I had lost. Until you are in a position like mine you can never know how invaluable Lanier Law Group is. They were wonderful while maintaining their professionalism. They treated me like a family member. They really do care about their clients. But most of all they are the best at what they do. I worked in the court system for years so I knew how attorneys and law firms basically operated. Understanding the law and it’s interpretation is the ultimate key to winning any case. Also know that if an attorney/attorneys study and review your case and know that you don’t have a chance in a court of law and are big enough to tell you that instead of giving you false hope, you then my friend have a group with valuable shared values. I have so much respect for everyone in this Law Group. I recommend Lanier Law Group, P.A. to anyone who needs representation, they are in your corner. 20 out of 10 stars.

- Diane W.

"Lanier Law Group will always be the choice for me and all my family members"

I started working with Lanier Law Group in 2020 on my Social Security Disability case. They from start to finish were awesome. My case manager Janet Hanks and attorney, Ashley Sappenfield were always available to answer all my questions. I did not have to do much but sit back and let them handle whatever was needed. My case took too long (2 years) and if I did not have Janet and Ashley My case would still not be approved. I would recommend Lanier to anyone to get the job done and approved. Do not go to another firm with your case, who promise the world and do not see it to completion and do not think another firms would have worked as hard as they did on my case. Lanier Law Group will always be the choice for me and all my family members to handle any cases of this type and other legal services they provide. They went above and beyond!

- Phillip J.

"So thankful for your expertise and professionalism"

Mrs. Gonzalez did an awesome job of explaining everything in detail and keeping me informed on the status of my case. Despite poor customer service with the insurance company, Mrs. Gonzalez was able to fix what they could not. Mrs. Gonzalez was very helpful with helping me understand things that I was not aware of when dealing with insurance claims. I am so thankful for her expertise and professionalism.

- Mario H.

"Always ready to answer any questions I may have"

The staff kept me well informed in a more than timely manner and was always ready to answer any questions I may have.

- Timothy M.

"The Lanier Law Group provided excellent customer service!"

The Lanier Law Group provided excellent customer service! My main contact was Denise.

- Malinda P.

Respect. Integrity. Passion.

Our Commitment to Our Clients

We Come Prepared

After an injury, every second counts. We are available to meet with you in person, virtually, or at your location to provide the highest quality legal counsel.

We're In Your Corner

Every case we take on has a team of dedicated professionals assigned to make sure that we're delivering the best possible service and results.

We're Here For You 24/7

Regardless of when you contact our firm, we're here to make sure that you get the answers you need. We also offer weekend appointments and consultations.

We Never Back Down

Our attorneys are confident taking cases to trial and will always seek to maximize your compensation.