Bristol County Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Guiding Riders & Families Through Life-Altering Motorcycle Crashes

One unexpected moment on a Bristol County roadway can change everything. If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident, the physical and financial fallout can be overwhelming. Medical bills, missed work, and difficult insurance conversations often leave people searching for trusted guidance. Our team at Decof, Mega & Quinn, P.C. is here to help. As a motorcycle accident attorney in Bristol County, we focus on helping riders and their families rebuild after serious crashes.

We understand the unique challenges that follow a motorcycle accident. Collisions are common on local roads like Route 6 and Interstate 195, and riders can face severe injuries and disruption to daily life. You may be dealing with pain, calls from insurance companies, and uncertainty about what happens next. Our team brings compassion, experience, and a history of results to every case. We strive to make the process clearer and more manageable for you.

Since 1975, our firm has represented individuals in their most difficult times. With over $1 billion recovered for injured clients, including results in complex cases and catastrophic injuries, our team is committed to helping accident victims in Bristol County secure the support and advocacy they deserve.

Call (401) 200-4059 for your free consultation. Let us help you move forward after your motorcycle accident.

Understanding Motorcycle Accidents in Bristol County, RI

Bristol County includes scenic roads and coastal routes that are popular with motorcyclists. However, these same roads can pose dangers due to distracted drivers, congested traffic, roadway defects, and sudden weather changes. When motorists fail to see motorcycles or fail to share the road responsibly, catastrophic accidents can happen.

Motorcycle accident cases are often more complex than standard auto accident claims because insurance companies tend to unfairly stereotype motorcyclists as reckless. Our firm works to counter these biases by presenting strong evidence, expert analysis, and a clear narrative demonstrating how the crash occurred and who is responsible.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Many motorcycle accidents in Bristol County are caused by driver negligence or unsafe roadway conditions. Some of the most common causes include:

• Failure to yield: Drivers turning left at intersections often fail to see an oncoming motorcycle.
• Distracted driving: Texting, eating, adjusting GPS, or other distractions frequently result in drivers missing motorcycles.
• Speeding: Excessive speed by either party increases the risk of collision and worsens injuries.
• Unsafe lane changes: Drivers who fail to check blind spots can sideswipe motorcyclists.
• Tailgating: Motorcycles can stop quicker than cars, causing rear-end collisions when drivers follow too closely.
• Road hazards: Potholes, debris, uneven pavement, and slippery surfaces are especially dangerous for motorcycles.
• Driving under the influence: Impaired drivers are a major cause of fatal motorcycle accidents.

Identifying the cause of the crash is a crucial step in building a successful claim. A Bristol County motorcycle accident lawyer at Decof, Mega & Quinn, P.C. will conduct a thorough investigation to determine exactly what went wrong.

Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries

Because of their exposure, motorcyclists often suffer more severe injuries than occupants of passenger vehicles. These injuries may require extensive medical treatment, long-term rehabilitation, and, in some cases, lifelong care. Common motorcycle accident injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Spinal cord injuries and paralysis
• Broken bones and fractures
• Road rash and severe lacerations
• Internal organ damage
• Burns from friction or fire
• Soft tissue injuries (sprains and tears)
• Amputations

These injuries can disrupt your career, your family life, and your ability to enjoy everyday activities. Our legal team works to determine the full scope of your losses so that any settlement or verdict reflects what you have truly endured and will continue to face in the future.

Rhode Island Motorcycle Laws

Rhode Island has specific laws that apply to motorcyclists. These laws can impact a personal injury claim after a crash:

• Helmet laws: Rhode Island requires all riders under the age of 21 to wear an approved helmet. Riders 21 and older may choose not to wear a helmet if they have held a motorcycle license for at least one year or have completed a safety course.
• Eye protection: If not wearing a motorcycle helmet with a visor, operators must use eye protection.
• Licensing: A specific motorcycle endorsement is required to legally operate a motorcycle.
• Lane splitting: Lane splitting is generally illegal in Rhode Island.
• Passenger rules: Passengers must be at least 12 years of age and use proper seating and footrests.

Even if you were not fully compliant with a motorcycle law at the time of the crash, you may still be entitled to compensation. Rhode Island follows a pure comparative negligence rule, meaning your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault — but you are not automatically barred from recovery. A Bristol County motorcycle accident lawyer at Decof, Mega & Quinn, P.C. can help assess how state laws apply to your case.

Compensation for Injured Motorcyclists

Motorcycle accident victims in Bristol County may be entitled to recover financial compensation for a wide range of damages, including:

• Current and future medical expenses
• Hospital stays, surgeries, and medications
• Rehabilitation and physical therapy
• Lost wages and loss of future earning ability
• Pain and suffering
• Emotional distress and mental anguish
• Loss of enjoyment of life
• Permanent disability or disfigurement
• Property damage to your motorcycle and gear
• Wrongful death damages (for surviving families)

Insurance companies often try to settle motorcycle accident claims quickly and for far less than they are worth. Before accepting any settlement, it’s essential to speak with a Bristol County motorcycle accident lawyer who can calculate the true value of your claim and negotiate aggressively on your behalf.

Motorcycle Accident Claim FAQs

How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim in Rhode Island?

Rhode Island has a statute of limitations for personal injury claims, typically three years from the date of the accident. Missing this deadline may prevent you from recovering compensation.

What if the insurance company is blaming me for the crash?

Rhode Island’s comparative negligence law means you may still recover compensation even if you were partially at fault. A skilled attorney can challenge unfair blame and protect your rights.

Do I need a lawyer if the insurance company already made an offer?

Yes. Initial settlement offers are often far lower than what your case is worth. An attorney can review the offer and negotiate for a fair amount based on your full damages.

What if the at-fault driver is uninsured or underinsured?

You may still have options through your own uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage. A Bristol County motorcycle accident lawyer can help explore all available sources of compensation.

How much does it cost to hire Decof, Mega & Quinn, P.C.?

We typically work on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay no upfront fees and only pay if we successfully recover compensation for you.

Why Bristol County Riders Choose Our Team After Serious Accidents

Choosing legal representation after a crash can make a real difference—especially when your future and your recovery are at stake. At Decof, Mega & Quinn, P.C., we bring extensive experience and a consistent record of success to every motorcycle accident claim. Our team has recovered more than $1 billion for clients statewide, securing some of Rhode Island’s largest personal injury and medical malpractice verdicts.

Led by principal shareholder Mark B. Decof, shareholder Mike Quinn, and shareholder Jeffrey A. Mega, our attorneys have spent decades advocating for clients across the region. Our work has been recognized by respected organizations such as Best Lawyers and Martindale-Hubbell, underscoring both independent evaluation and the respect of our peers. These distinctions provide value throughout negotiation, settlement, and court proceedings.

What truly sets us apart is our commitment to open communication and personal service. With us, you have direct access to an attorney. Our contingency fee model ensures you pay nothing out of pocket unless we recover compensation in your case. Riders in Bristol County rely on us when stakes are high and strong advocacy is needed.

Contact Decof, Mega & Quinn, P.C. today to schedule your free consultation