Black silhouette of a motorcycle.

Motorcycle accident attorney North Charleston

Your health, your timeline, and your claim

If you were hit on a motorcycle in North Charleston, see a doctor and document every symptom, even if pain seems minor. South Carolina's filing window is usually three years, and comparative negligence can reduce recovery when blame is disputed. Doughty Law Firm helps riders gather records, assess liability, and move quickly.

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Why motorcycle cases are different

Visibility, road hazards, and common defenses

Drivers often fail to see riders near Park Circle, Rivers Ave, or I-526 interchanges, and small road hazards can cause serious injuries. Insurers may argue you were speeding, lane filtering, or not easily visible in traffic. We counter with crash reconstruction, visibility analysis, and witness statements.

Fault, helmets, and South Carolina law

Comparative negligence and helmet rules

South Carolina uses comparative negligence, so recovery is reduced by your share of fault and barred at 51 percent or more. State law requires helmets for riders under 21, and not wearing a helmet can affect damages only in limited ways depending on the facts. We explain how these rules apply when crashes happen near Summerville, Goose Creek, or Hanahan.

Steps to take after a motorcycle crash

Medical care, documentation, and evidence

01

Get medical help

Get medical treatment, photograph the scene, save damaged gear, and keep all bills and pay records.

02

Report The accident

Report the crash and gather names for witnesses near Northwoods Mall, Tanger Outlets, or Riverfront Park.

03

Seek Legal help

Contact Doughty Law Firm before detailed insurer interviews so your statement is accurate.


Questions riders ask

 Short answers for common concerns

  • Can I recover if I was not wearing a helmet?

    You may still recover damages depending on fault and causation, though insurers might argue your injuries were worse. We evaluate medical evidence and argue for fair compensation.

  • How is fault determined in a motorcycle accident?

    Police reports, photos, skid marks, onboard data, and witness statements help reconstruct events. We work with experts to show how the crash occurred.

  • Is lane splitting legal in South Carolina?

    Lane splitting is not permitted under current traffic laws. If the other driver caused the collision, we argue liability based on their conduct and conditions.

  • What if the at-fault driver has no insurance?

    You may have uninsured or underinsured motorist coverage on your policy. We review your coverage and pursue all available sources.

  • What damages can I claim?

    Medical expenses, lost income, pain and suffering, and property loss are common categories. We document each category to support settlement or trial.

When a crash is fatal

Support for families after a motorcycle death

If a loved one was killed in a motorcycle crash, families may have claims under South Carolina's  wrongful death statutes. We coordinate with the estate and explain how claims proceed in the local courts. Doughty Law Firm handles litigation while families focus on arrangements and recovery.

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Ready to move forward

Talk with a North Charleston motorcycle accident attorney

Tell us where the crash occurred and the medical care you have received so far. Doughty Law Firm will outline next steps and timelines that fit your situation.