Home to a rich cultural heritage, the scenic Gulfport Harbor Square Park, and the bustling Island View Casino Resort, our beloved city offers an abundance of activities for locals and visitors alike. Besides, with the increase in traffic comes a greater risk of accidents, particularly those involving motorcycles. Motorcycle accidents in Gulfport, Mississippi can be devastating for the injured motorcyclists and their family members.
If you or someone you care about has been involved in a motorcycle crash in Gulfport, you know all too well the physical, emotional, and financial challenges that follow. Coping with pain and trauma, mounting medical bills, loss of income, and disruption to your daily life can be overwhelming. That’s where Boyce Holleman & Associates comes in.
We are here to provide the compassionate support and top legal representation you need during this difficult time. Our connection to the Gulfport community runs deep, and we are dedicated to fighting for justice on your behalf and obtaining the largest possible financial compensation you deserve.
Motorcycle Accident-Related Laws in Gulfport, MS
Motorbike accident lawsuits fall under the broader umbrella of personal injury law. Here are some key aspects of Mississippi personal injury law that you should be aware of when dealing with an accident claim:
Comparative Negligence
In Mississippi, the “pure comparative negligence” rule applies, so if you’re involved in an accident, your compensation might be reduced based on how much you were at fault. So, even if you share some responsibility for the accident, you can still get compensation, but it will be lowered depending on your share of the blame.
For instance, let’s say you were in a motorcycle accident in Gulfport and suffered $10,000 in damages. If it’s determined that you were 30% at fault for the accident, your compensation would be reduced by 30%. In this case, you’d receive $7,000 instead of the full $10,000, because your share of the fault has been taken into account.
Statute of Limitations
The statute of limitations for motorcycle accidents is three years from the date of the accident. If the victim of the accident passes away as a result of their injuries, the family or representatives of the deceased have three years from the date of the victim’s death to file a wrongful death claim.
Damage Caps
Mississippi does not impose a cap on economic or non-economic damages in motorbike accident cases, which means there is no limit to the amount of compensation you can recover. Pertaining to this, there is a cap of $1 million on punitive damages.
Insurance Requirements
State law requires motorcyclists to carry liability insurance, which covers damages and injuries to others if they are found to be at fault in an accident. The minimum coverage required is $25,000 per person for bodily injury, $50,000 per accident for bodily injury, and $25,000 per accident for property damage.
Helmet Laws
Mississippi law mandates that you and any passengers on your motorcycle must wear helmets approved by the Department of Public Safety. Following this rule not only helps you stay in compliance with the law but also increases your safety while riding.
Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Gulfport, Mississippi
- Unsafe lane changes: Drivers may not check their blind spots or signal before changing lanes, which can lead to collisions with motorcyclists.
- Speeding: Both motorcyclists and other vehicle drivers can cause accidents by driving at excessive speeds, which reduces reaction time and increases the severity of crashes.
- Distracted driving: Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or engaging in other distracting activities are more likely to cause accidents with motorcyclists.
- Driving under the influence: Alcohol and drugs impair judgment and reaction times, increasing the risk of motorcycle accidents.
- Left-turn accidents: Drivers making left turns may fail to see oncoming motorcycles, leading to collisions.
- Sudden stops: Rear-end accidents can occur when drivers or motorcyclists stop suddenly, causing the following vehicle to collide with them.
- Road hazards: Debris, potholes, and uneven road surfaces can cause motorcyclists to lose control and crash.
- Inexperienced drivers: Novice drivers may not be familiar with how to share the road safely with motorcycles, leading to accidents.
- Weather conditions: Rain, fog, and other adverse weather conditions can reduce visibility and make roads slippery, contributing to motorcycle collisions.
- Defective motorcycle parts: Faulty brakes, tires, or other components can cause a motorcycle to malfunction and lead to an accident.
By the Numbers: Motorcycle Accidents and Fatalities in Mississippi
Motorcycle fatalities in Mississippi have been on the rise in recent years. Between 2019 and 2020, motorcycle deaths in the state increased by a significant 55%. In 2019, there were 40 motorcycle-related fatalities, which jumped to 62 in 2021. Experts believe that this number could continue to grow if drivers don’t remain cautious and vigilant on the roads. It’s crucial for motorcyclists to be aware of their skill level, follow speed limits, and take proper safety courses to help reduce the risk of accidents and save lives.
Dangerous Intersections in Gulfport, MS
Gulfport has several major roads and highways where accidents, including motorcycle crashes, are more likely to occur due to increased traffic and congestion. These include:
- Interstate 10 (I-10)
- US Highway 49
- US Highway 90 (Beach Boulevard)
- Crossroads Parkway and Highway 49 intersection
- Pass Road and Courthouse Road intersection
Local Hospitals and Medical Centers in Gulfport, MS
The following hospitals in Gulfport, MS offer comprehensive medical care, emergency services, and specialized treatment options:
- Memorial Hospital at Gulfport
- Garden Park Medical Center
- Gulfport Behavioral Health System
- VA Gulf Coast Veterans Health Care System – Gulfport Division (Biloxi VA Medical Center’s branch clinic)
Who Can Be Held Liable for a Motorcycle Accident in Gulfport, MS?
Depending on the specific circumstances surrounding your case, any one or more of the following parties may be held responsible for the injuries, property damage, or death resulting from the crash:
- The other driver(s): If another driver involved in the accident was at fault, such as by speeding, driving under the influence, or failing to yield.
- Motorcycle or parts manufacturers: If a defect in the motorcycle or another vehicle involved in the accident contributed to the crash.
- The government or municipality: If poor road conditions, lack of signage, or inadequate maintenance played a role in the accident.
- Property owners: If the accident occurred due to an unsafe condition on private property, such as a parking lot.
Get the Leading Gulfport, MS Motorcycle Accident Attorneys on Your Side
If you or someone you love was injured in a motorbike crash, our team of client-focused Gulfport motorcycle accident lawyers at Boyce Holleman & Associates is determined to help you get the maximum financial compensation you deserve. We will gather compelling evidence, negotiate with the insurance company, and pursue a winning legal strategy for you.
Our legal team will make sure you don’t miss any important deadlines and that your case is solid, while you focus on getting better from your injuries. To get started with your free legal case evaluation, call us at 228-863-3142 or fill out this form.
