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Originally Posted On: What Does Wrongful Death Mean in Motorcycle/Scooter Accidents – Ogborn Mihm LLP (omtrial.com)

When a loved one is lost in a motorcycle or scooter accident, and another person’s negligent behavior caused the accident, this only adds to the grief that follows. Family members know that someone else was responsible for the loss of their loved one, and that can be particularly difficult to endure.

While nothing can replace the loss of life, surviving family members can file a wrongful death claim against the liable party to recover compensation.

Motorcycle and Scooter Accident Fatalities

Riding a motorcycle poses a significant risk of injury. In fact, more than 5,000 motorcyclists died in motorcycle accidents in 2019. Motorcycles do not have airbags or protective barriers, leaving motorcyclists exposed to road debris, adverse weather conditions, and nearby trucks and cars.

Like motorcyclists, riders of electric scooters also face an increased risk of accidents. In the United States, approximately 30 people have been killed riding e-scooters since 2018.

Wrongful Death in Motorcycle and Scooter Accidents

Wrongful death claims provide a legal method for surviving family members to recover compensation from the person or entity responsible for their loved one’s fatal accident. If, for example, a drunk driver hit a motorcyclist or a manufacturing defect caused a scooter accident, the parties responsible for the accident may be held liable.

Survivors of the deceased may file a wrongful death claim seeking damages for loss of companionship, lost income from the deceased, funeral expenses, and more. States allow immediate family members—spouses, children, and parents of unmarried children—to recover compensation in wrongful death claims.

Advocating for Surviving Family Members in Wrongful Death Claims

Losing a loved one in a motorcycle or scooter accident due to the negligence of another person is particularly painful, and pursuing a wrongful death claim to recover compensation for your loss can be quite challenging. At Ogborn Mihm, LLP, our dedicated accident attorneys are here to help. Schedule a confidential consultation with a member of our team today.