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Newport Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Rhode Island’s breathtaking landscape draws hundreds of motorcyclists to the area, whether as visitors or residents. However, the natural beauty of this state can be shattered in an instant by a negligent driver.

Motorcyclists face a much higher risk on the road; per mile traveled, they are about 28 times more likely to be killed in a crash than people in passenger vehicles. At Rob Levine Law, our compassionate team understands what victims of motorcycle collisions go through, and we are here to help. Schedule an initial consultation today to learn more.

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How Our Newport Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Can Help Your Case

At Rob Levine Law, our hardworking team is dedicated to advocating for those in need by providing an aggressive approach to personal injury cases while upholding the highest possible ethical standards. If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, our experienced and knowledgeable Newport attorneys can do the following for you:

  • Launch a thorough independent investigation to determine the cause of the accident and identify who is responsible.
  • Gather evidence and devise a sound legal strategy to build a strong case and prove liability.
  • Negotiate with the insurance company for a full and fair settlement.
  • Litigate your case and take it to trial, if necessary, to pursue the maximum compensation.

We offer 24/7 availability and can meet remotely, in-office, or travel to you. We also offer a Fee Free Guarantee®, so you will never pay any upfront costs and will pay us only if you win your case.

Hear From Our Satisfied Clients

Rhode Island Traffic Laws That Impact a Motorcycle Accident Claim

Rhode Island has various motorcycle laws that may affect motorcycle accident claims. These include measures governing motorcycle operation, traffic safety, and assessing liability.

Rhode Island Motorcycle Laws

Motorcyclists must comply with the state’s strict laws designed to protect the rider and prevent collisions. These laws provide for the following:

  • Helmets: All riders and passengers under 21 must wear helmets. New riders with a permit must also wear a helmet regardless of age.
  • Eye Protection: If your motorcycle does not have a windshield, you are required to wear goggles, glasses, or a face shield to protect your eyes.
  • Noise Restrictions: Motorcycles must have a functioning muffler and cannot exceed state noise limits.
  • Daytime Headlights: Motorcycles must keep their headlights on at all times, even during the day, to improve visibility.
  • Lane Splitting: Riding between traffic lanes is illegal in Rhode Island.

Comparative Fault Rule in Rhode Island

Under R.I. Gen. Laws § 9-20-4, Rhode Island has a pure comparative fault system that allows you to recover damages even if you are partly at fault for an accident. However, your compensation will be reduced in proportion to your share of the blame.

For example, in a crash on Thames Street in Newport, a driver may be 80% at fault for failing to yield, while a motorcyclist is 20% at fault for speeding. Thus, if the motorcyclist has sustained $100,000 in damages, they can still recover $80,000.

Statute of Limitations for Newport Motorcycle Accidents

Under R.I. Gen. Laws § 9-1-14, you generally have three years from the date of the crash to file a personal injury claim. For property damage only, such as repairs to your motorcycle, the deadline is longer, allowing up to ten years to file suit. However, since most cases involve both injury and property damage, accident victims typically file both claims together before the three-year injury deadline.

If your motorcycle accident involves a government entity in Newport, special rules apply. Under R.I. Gen. Laws § 45-15-9, you must provide written notice of your claim to the city within 60 days of the incident. After giving notice, R.I. Gen. Laws § 45-15-5 requires you to wait 40 days before filing a lawsuit.

Assigning Liability After a Motorcycle Accident in Newport

Numerous factors can contribute to a motorcycle accident in Newport, including the following:

Negligence of Other Drivers

When drivers fail to operate their vehicles safely or violate traffic laws, such as failing to yield or driving while distracted, they can be held liable. For example, a driver turning at an intersection on Broadway may strike an oncoming motorcyclist who had the right of way.

Road Conditions

A government entity may be held responsible for unsafe road conditions. A rider hitting a large pothole on Thames Street may lose control and crash. If the city knew about the pothole and failed to address the hazard, it may be partially responsible for the accident.

Motorcycle Defects

If a mechanical failure causes a crash, the manufacturer or repair provider may be liable. For instance, defective brakes failing near Bellevue Avenue could point to a product or maintenance issue.

Involvement of Multiple Parties

Some accidents involve several liable parties. A crash on Aquidneck Avenue could involve a negligent driver, a poorly maintained road, and a defective motorcycle part, all of which could contribute to the outcome.

Forms of Compensation You Can Recover From Your Motorcycle Accident Claim

Several different forms of compensation may be available for motorcycle accident victims:

  • Medical Expenses: Costs of medical-related services, like ambulance services or time spent at a Rhode Island hospital
  • Lost Wages: Lost income due to time off work or an inability to return to your former position
  • Pain and Suffering: The physical impacts of your injuries
  • Emotional Distress: The mental and emotional effects of your injuries
  • Property Damage: Repairs or replacements for motorcycle parts
  • Punitive Damages: Compensation awarded for especially egregious behavior, such as driving while impaired

Calculate the Value of Your Case

Use our free personal injury settlement calculator to determine how much your case may be worth. This calculator is designed to give you a value with a range based on thousands of case we have settled.

Results We’ve Helped Our Clients Secure

Get In Touch With Our Newport Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Today

Rhode Island and Newport can be beautiful places for a motorcycle ride. However, riders cannot always predict the negligent behavior of drivers they share the road with. As a result, serious, life-changing accidents can occur.

At Rob Levine Law, our Newport attorneys stand out from the rest, having over 25 years of experience and a track record of success. We have helped over 50,000 people and recovered over $2 billion in disability benefits and injury compensation.

Our team is dedicated to community involvement and advocating for those in need. We charge a standard 33% contingency fee on all personal injury cases and offer a discounted rate of 25% for first responders, including police, firefighters, rescue personnel, and military service members. Contact us 24/7 for a free, no-obligation consultation.

Motorcycle Accident FAQs

What Should I Do Right After a Motorcycle Crash in Newport?

After a crash, call 911, seek medical attention right away, and report the incident to law enforcement to create an official record. If possible, avoid discussing fault and contact a motorcycle accident attorney as soon as you can.

If you cannot gather evidence yourself, ask a witness or responding officer to document the scene, and make sure a police report is filed. That report, along with photos, witness statements, and vehicle information, becomes critical evidence later.

In areas like Newport, narrow streets and heavy seasonal traffic increase the risk of left-turn crashes, sudden stops, and dooring incidents. Tourist drivers also complicate cases because witnesses may leave town quickly, making it harder to track them down after the crash.

Rhode Island requires minors and new riders to wear helmets. While the failure to wear a helmet does not prevent you from recovering compensation, it may affect how damages are evaluated, especially in head injury claims.

Accidents involving commercial vehicles often involve multiple liable parties, including the driver and the employer. These cases can also trigger higher insurance coverage and more complex investigations into company policies and driver conduct.

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Office Location

Newport, RI

55 Memorial Blvd
Newport, RI 02840

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