Help me get medical treatment? Yes
Recover lost wages? Yes
Get maximum compensation? Yes
Get money to repair my bike? Yes
Pay upfront for legal services? No
Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Fighting for Your Compensation
If you were injured in a motorcycle accident, you know better than anyone how quickly your world can change. One minute you’re cruising down the open road, and the next, you’re lying in a hospital bed with broken bones and mounting medical bills.
Our motorcycle accident lawyers fight on behalf of injured riders like you to get you and your family the financial compensation you deserve. We understand the unique challenges riders face on the road and in the courtroom. Fill out the online contact form to get started with a free case evaluation.
Don’t Let a Motorcycle Accident Ruin Your Life: Hire an Attorney Today
If you were involved in a motorcycle accident, act quickly to file your compensation claim and protect your rights.
Many biases exist against motorcycle riders, and insurance companies will work to minimize your settlement or deny your claim outright. At our firm, we understand the unique challenges and complexities of motorcycle accident cases.
An experienced motorcycle lawyer will work tirelessly to gather evidence, build a strong case, and negotiate with insurance companies to secure maximum compensation.
With our help, you can focus on your recovery and getting your life back on track. So, contact us to schedule a consultation and learn how an attorney can help you with your case. But don’t wait! The sooner you hire a lawyer, the better your chances of a successful outcome.
What To Do After a Motorcycle Accident
After being involved in a motorcycle wreck, there are steps you should take to protect your legal rights and ensure that you receive the compensation you need.
Call 911 and Seek Medical Attention
The first thing you should do is call for help to report the accident and seek medical attention. Even if you feel fine, you should still get checked out by a medical professional, as some injuries may not become apparent until later.
Additionally, getting medical treatment immediately after the accident can help to document the extent of your injuries, which can be used as evidence in any legal proceedings.
Document the Crash
After seeking medical attention, it’s important to document the accident as thoroughly as possible. Have someone you trust snap photos of the crash scene and the damage to your bike, and collect contact information from any witnesses.
Write down your account of what happened while the details are still fresh in your mind. All of this information can be useful in building your case and proving fault.
Report the Accident to Your Insurance Company or Contact a Lawyer
Next, it’s important to report the accident to your insurer. However, please remember that insurance companies are not on your side. Their primary goal is to pay out as little as possible in claims.
For this reason, it’s important to be careful when talking to a claims adjuster or other representative of an insurance company.
We realize you may have already started your claim. But before you talk to anyone else, you should consult a motorcycle accident lawyer.
Types of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents happen in many different ways, and each accident has its own challenges. Common motorcycle wrecks include:
- Rear-end collisions: This type of collision occurs when a vehicle strikes the back of a motorcycle. In most cases, the other vehicle’s driver is found to be at fault for failing to maintain a safe following distance.
- Left-turn accidents: Left-turn accidents occur when a vehicle turns left in front of a motorcycle, either at an intersection or while changing lanes. These situations can leave riders at a disadvantage, as they often have little time to react.
- Lane splitting accidents: Lane splitting is legal in California, and versions of it are permitted in a few other states. In states where it’s legal, riders can ride between slow-moving or stopped traffic lanes. However, this can be risky, as other motorists may not be expecting a motorcycle to pass them.
- Intersection accidents: Intersections are dangerous for all types of vehicles, but they can be especially treacherous for motorcycles. Collisions at intersections typically occur when someone fails to yield the right of way.
- Single-vehicle accidents: Single-vehicle crashes can occur for various reasons, including road hazards, mechanical failure, and operator error. In some cases, another motor vehicle driver causes a motorcycle rider to crash without actually hitting them.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
A wide range of factors can cause motorcycle accidents. However, some of the most common causes include:
- Driver error: This can include distracted driving, speeding, and failure to yield the right of way. Drivers who aren’t paying attention are more likely to hit bikers.
- Poor road conditions: Hazards such as potholes, loose gravel, and uneven pavement can be especially dangerous for motorcyclists. These irregularities can cause a motorcyclist to lose control of their bike and crash.
- Weather: Rain, snow, and other inclement weather can make it difficult for drivers to see and control their vehicles. This can increase the risk of collisions.
- Defective motorcycle parts: Sometimes, a defect in a motorcycle’s design or manufacturing can lead to a crash. For example, a faulty brake system may prevent a rider from stopping in time to avoid a collision.
- Drunk driving or driving under the influence of drugs: Alcohol and drugs can impair a driver’s judgment and slow their reaction time, making them more likely to make a disastrous mistake.
Understanding the common causes of bike wrecks can help identify who may be at fault for the accident. This information can be useful in building a case against a negligent driver or other responsible parties.
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Motorcycle crashes can result in many injuries, from minor cuts and bruises to catastrophic injuries, resulting in permanent disability or death. Common injuries sustained in these accidents include:
- Road rash: Road rash occurs when a rider’s skin comes into contact with the pavement. These scrapes, cuts, and abrasions can be more severe if the biker is not wearing protective gear.
- Broken bones: Motorcycle accidents can result in broken bones, which are painful and require extensive medical treatment.
- Head injuries: Head injuries are some of the most severe injuries that occur in motorcycle crashes. Even riders wearing helmets can suffer traumatic brain injuries, which can be debilitating or fatal.
- Spinal cord injuries: Spinal cord injuries can result in paralysis or other permanent disabilities and require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
- Amputations: In many cases, motorcycle accidents lead to amputations. These catastrophic injuries can profoundly impact a person’s quality of life and cause significant emotional distress for the victim and their family.
Get the Compensation You Deserve: How To Deal With Insurance Companies
One of the biggest challenges you may face after a motorcycle accident is dealing with insurance companies. Handling your own insurance claim can be a daunting task, especially when you’re recovering from an accident.
Insurance adjusters are trained to protect their company’s assets and will often try to minimize the compensation you receive for your injuries. However, by following a few key steps, you can help ensure that you receive the compensation you are entitled to.
Start by Gathering Evidence
Before you even contact the insurance company, gathering as much evidence as possible to support your claim is important. This can include:
- Police reports.
- Photos and videos of the accident scene.
- Witness statements.
- Medical records and other accident-related bills.
By gathering this evidence, you can provide the insurance company with a clear picture of what happened and how your injuries have affected your life.
Be Careful What You Say
When you do contact the insurance company, be careful what you say. Insurance adjusters may try to get you to admit fault or downplay the severity of your injuries.
To protect yourself, avoid discussing specific details about the accident or your injuries until you’ve spoken with a motorcycle accident lawyer. We recommend you also avoid posting about the accident on social media, as your posts may not be as private as you think.
Consider Hiring a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Working with a motorcycle accident lawyer can be one of the best ways to ensure that you don’t say or do anything that might jeopardize your potential settlement. A lawyer can help you by:
- Negotiating with the insurance company on your behalf.
- Building a strong case to support your claim.
- Providing guidance on handling any issues arising during the claims process.
- Fighting for you in court if your case doesn’t settle.
With the help of a motorcycle accident lawyer, you can be confident that you’re doing everything possible to protect your rights and get the compensation you need to move forward.
Determining Liability in a Motorcycle Accident: Who’s At Fault?
In any motor vehicle accident, it’s important to determine fault. However, identifying liable parties can be complex in motorcycle accidents, as there may be multiple people or entities involved and more than one factor that contributed to the accident.
Liable parties may include the following:
- The driver of the other vehicle involved in the accident (if applicable)
- The manufacturer of the motorcycle or its parts
- The municipality responsible for road design and maintenance
- A mechanic who serviced the bike
While you may have a claim against an at-fault driver, in some cases, one of the other parties we mentioned could be to blame. It’s always best to have a skilled motorcycle accident lawyer on your side who can investigate the accident and determine who caused it.
Your lawyer will work to investigate the accident, gather evidence, and determine who was at fault. In some cases, the rider might share some responsibility for the crash.
For example, the driver of a car or truck may be at fault for failing to yield the right of way, but the person on the bike may be partially at fault for speeding.
How Much Is Your Motorcycle Accident Claim Worth? Types of Compensation Available
If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to several types of compensation, including:
- Medical expenses: These include the cost of medical bills for initial and ongoing treatment, hospitalization, rehabilitation, physical therapy, and any other healthcare expenses related to the accident.
- Lost wages: If you cannot work due to your injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages.
- Pain and suffering: This can include compensation for physical pain and mental anguish caused by the crash.
- Permanent disability: If you suffer a permanent injury or disability due to the accident, you may be entitled to compensation for lost future earning capacity, medical expenses related to your disability, and other associated costs. You may also be eligible for compensation for the physical pain and psychological distress you experience due to your disability.
- Loss of Limbs: Unfortunately, getting hit on a bike can cause you to lose a limb either during or after the wreck. An injury like this will profoundly impact your life, and you should be compensated accordingly.
- Property damage: If your bike, helmet, or other property was damaged in the crash, you might be entitled to compensation for repairs or replacement costs.
- Loss of consortium: If your injuries have affected your relationship with your spouse or significant other, you may be entitled to compensation for losing their companionship and support.
- Wrongful death: If a loved one was killed in a motorcycle accident, you might be entitled to compensation for their wrongful death.
- Punitive damage: In extreme cases, the court may award punitive damages to punish the at-fault party for gross negligence.
The amount of compensation you’re entitled to will depend on various factors, including the severity of your injuries and who was at fault. A motorcycle accident lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and options and fight for adequate compensation.
What Is a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer?
A motorcycle accident lawyer is a personal injury lawyer who specializes in representing motorcyclists who have been injured in crashes. These attorneys have expertise in the unique issues that come with motorcycle accident cases.
If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident and suffered injuries, it is important to seek the services of an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer to represent your best interests.
Motorcycle lawyers are familiar with the common causes of motorcycle accidents and the types of injuries that motorcyclists can sustain in a crash.
They also understand the various insurance and liability issues that arise in these cases, including dealing with insurance adjusters and medical providers. By hiring a qualified personal injury lawyer, you can ensure that your legal rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation for your damages.
Do You Really Need a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer?
If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, you may wonder whether you need a motorcycle accident lawyer. There are many reasons why you need professional legal counsel to help navigate the aftermath of a crash, including:
Challenging Insurance Negotiations
Your lawyer can handle all communications with the insurance company, gather evidence, and negotiate on your behalf to help you secure a fair settlement. Outsourcing these tasks can help reduce stress and anxiety, allowing you to focus on your recovery.
Complex Legal Process
Another reason to hire an experienced lawyer is that they can help you navigate the complex legal system. For example, many laws and regulations govern motorcycle accidents, and understanding and complying with them can be challenging.
Important Decisions To Make
Your lawyer can help you understand your rights and obligations and ensure that you follow all applicable laws. They can also provide guidance and support throughout the legal process so that you can make informed decisions about your case.
Biases Against Motorcycle Riders in the Court System
Riders face a unique set of challenges regarding personal injury claims. One of the most significant obstacles is the inherent biases against them in the court system.
Number of Accidents
Even though motorcycles account for only a small percentage of vehicles on the road, they are involved in a disproportionately high number of accidents.
As a result, insurance companies and their lawyers often try to shift the blame to the motorcycle rider, and judges and juries can be influenced by negative stereotypes and biases.
One of the most common biases against riders is the assumption that they are reckless and irresponsible. However, most motorcycle accidents are caused by other drivers who are not paying attention or violating traffic laws.
Still, motorcycle riders can be unfairly blamed for an accident because of negative stereotypes.
Misconceptions About Assumed Risk
Another bias against motorcycle riders is the belief that they assume the risks of riding a motorcycle and, therefore, should bear the consequences of any accident.
This bias ignores that other drivers have a legal obligation to check their blind spots and follow traffic laws and that they can be held liable for their negligent or reckless behavior.
Unfortunately, this bias can lead to motorcycle riders being denied compensation for their injuries and other losses, even when they were not at fault for the accident.
Limited Knowledge Among Jurors
In addition to these biases, motorcycle riders may face other challenges in the court system, such as jurors who may not understand the unique dynamics of riding a motorcycle or the severity of the injuries resulting from an accident.
That’s why injured riders must work with a motorcycle lawyer who understands these biases and can present a strong case in court.
With the right legal representation, injured motorcycle riders can overcome common obstacles and obtain the compensation they are owed for their injuries and other losses.
Tips for Choosing the Right Motorcycle Accident Lawyer for Your Case
Choosing the right lawyer is a critical decision that can impact your case’s outcome. With so many motorcycle accident law firms and attorneys to choose from, it can be challenging to know where to start. Here are some tips to help you choose the right lawyer for your case:
- Look for experience: It’s essential to choose a lawyer who has experience handling motorcycle accident cases. Look for a personal injury attorney with a proven track record of success in this area of law.
- Check reviews and referrals: Take the time to read reviews and ask for referrals from friends or family members who have previously worked with a motorcycle accident attorney. This can give you valuable insight into a lawyer’s experience and the quality of their work.
- Schedule a consultation: Before hiring a lawyer, schedule a consultation to discuss your case. This is an opportunity to ask questions, learn more about their experience and approach to your case, and determine if they are the right fit for you.
At our firm, we understand the unique challenges and complexities of these cases and are committed to helping motorcycle accident victims seek compensation.
Motorcycle Injury Claims Process
You’ll need to navigate the personal injury claims process to pursue financial compensation. Here’s what you can expect:
Case Building
First, you’ll need evidence to support your claim. This can include photos of the accident scene, eyewitness statements, police reports, medical records, and other documentation.
Your motorcycle accident lawyer can help you gather and organize this evidence, ensuring that you have a solid case to present to the insurance company.
Insurance Claim
Next, you’ll need to file a claim with the at-fault party’s insurance company. Your lawyer can handle this process on your behalf, ensuring that all necessary information is provided and your rights are protected. The insurance company will review your claim and may make a settlement offer.
Your lawyer can help you evaluate this offer and negotiate with the insurer to secure a settlement that reflects the full extent of your injuries and losses.
Litigation
If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, your case may proceed to litigation. This can involve filing a lawsuit and going to court. Your lawyer can represent you throughout this process, advocating for your rights and interests and presenting a compelling case to the court.
With the help of a skilled motorcycle accident lawyer, you can navigate the claims and litigation process confidently and secure the compensation you need for your injuries and other losses.
Working With Insurance Companies
When interacting with insurance companies after a crash, keep in mind that they are not on your side. Insurance companies are businesses whose primary goal is to minimize payouts and protect their bottom line.
Be Careful What You Say
Be honest and accurate when discussing your injuries and other losses with the insurance company.
However, you should be careful what you say and avoid providing information that could be used against you. Insurance adjusters are trained to get you talking. So don’t take the bait and say too much.
Don’t Accept an Offer That Doesn’t Cover All Your Damages
Another common tactic used by insurance companies is to make a lowball settlement offer in the hopes that you will accept it instead of pursuing further compensation. Again, this is because insurance companies are vested in settling claims quickly and for as little money as possible.
If you receive an offer from an insurer, it’s important to consider whether it’s adequate to cover your injuries and other losses.
You should also remember that once you sign a settlement agreement, you generally can’t go back and ask for more compensation later.
A Lawyer Can Help
If you’re unsure whether a settlement offer is fair, you should consult with a motorcycle accident lawyer before accepting it. A lawyer can review the offer and assess whether it’s reasonable based on the facts of your case.
Your lawyer can negotiate with the insurance company to secure a better offer if the offer is too low.
By having a clear understanding of the facts of the case, your lawyer can build a strong case for your claim and present it in a compelling way to the insurance company. This can help ensure that you receive the compensation you qualify for based on your injuries and other losses.
What a Motorcycle Accident Attorney Does
If someone else caused your accident, you might be entitled to compensation through an insurance claim. However, pursuing a personal injury claim can be a complex and challenging process, requiring the expertise of a skilled motorcycle accident attorney.
Here’s what a motorcycle accident attorney does to help you navigate the legal aftermath of an accident:
Building Your Motorcycle Accident Case
One of the primary roles of your attorney is to build a solid case on your behalf. This involves gathering evidence to support your case, such as eyewitness statements, photos of the accident scene, medical records, and police reports.
Your attorney can also investigate the accident further by interviewing witnesses, reviewing surveillance footage, and consulting with accident reconstruction specialists to understand better what happened.
Armed with this evidence, your attorney can present a compelling argument for why you deserve compensation for your injuries and other losses. This can help increase the likelihood of a favorable outcome in your case, whether through a settlement or a court verdict.
Negotiating for a Fair Settlement
Once your attorney has built a strong case, they can then negotiate with the insurance company to secure a fair settlement. Insurance companies are more interested in minimizing their costs than in compensating you for your injuries, which is why it’s essential to have a skilled attorney on your side.
Your lawyer can help you evaluate any settlement offers you receive, ensuring that they reflect the full extent of your injuries and losses.
If the insurance company fails to offer enough compensation, your attorney can continue to negotiate on your behalf, providing arguments for why your injuries warrant more money.
Representing You in Court
In some cases, negotiations with the insurance company may break down, and your case will proceed to litigation. If this happens, your attorney can represent you in court, advocating for your rights and interests and presenting a compelling case to the judge and jury.
Your attorney can handle all aspects of the trial process, including filing court documents, conducting depositions, questioning witnesses, presenting evidence, and making arguments to the court.
With a qualified attorney, you can be confident that your rights and interests are protected at every step of the legal process.
Even after you and your lawyer file a lawsuit, the negotiations will likely continue, and your case might settle before trial. If not, your attorney can fight for you in court.
The Top Motorcycle Companies and Their Legal Liability
Motorcycles are a popular mode of transportation for millions worldwide, and many companies manufacture these vehicles. Some top motorcycle companies include Suzuki, Yamaha, Harley Davidson, and Honda.
While all of these manufacturers take safety seriously, accidents can still occur due to a variety of factors, including defective parts or design flaws.
If you have been injured in a crash caused by a problem with your bike, it’s important to work with an attorney who has experience handling cases involving motorcycle companies. These cases can be complex, as they often involve determining whether a defect in the bike caused the crash.
Getting Back on the Road: Life After a Motorcycle Wreck
Getting into a motorcycle accident can be a traumatic experience that leaves you feeling overwhelmed and unsure of what to do next. However, it is possible to recover and get back on the road with the right support and resources. Here’s what you need to know about life after a motorcycle accident.
Long Road to Recovery
The recovery process can be a long and challenging physical and mental journey. Therefore, it’s important to take the time to focus on your health and well-being, follow your doctor’s orders, and attend any necessary appointments or treatments.
Additionally, seeking support from loved ones, friends, or a mental health professional can help you cope with the psychological toll of the accident.
Lost Income From Missing Work
If you cannot return to work or perform your usual activities due to your injuries, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages or reduced earning capacity.
A motorcycle accident lawyer can help you understand your legal rights and options for pursuing this compensation, allowing you to focus on your recovery without financial stress.
By working with a knowledgeable and experienced attorney, you can get the support you need to move forward and rebuild your life.
Time Limits for Taking Legal Action
It’s important to remember that there are time limits for filing a claim after a motorcycle accident. These time limits vary from state to state and are known as statutes of limitations.
For example, Maine Legislature Revised Statutes give you six years from the accident date, while the Louisiana Statute of Limitations is just one year.
If you fail to file a claim within your state’s applicable statute of limitations, you may be barred from recovering any compensation for your injuries and other losses.
That’s why it’s important to speak with a skilled motorcycle accident lawyer immediately after an accident. Your lawyer can help you understand the statutes of limitations in your state and ensure that your claim is filed in a timely manner.
Other Reasons Time Is of the Essence in a Motorcycle Accident Case
After a motorcycle wreck, acting quickly to protect your legal rights is crucial. While state statutes impose deadlines for filing a lawsuit, there are other reasons why time is of the essence in a motorcycle accident lawsuit.
Preserving Evidence
One important reason is evidence preservation. Motorcycle accidents can cause significant property damage, and preserving all available evidence to support your case is crucial. This includes photographs of the accident scene, vehicle damage, and any injuries sustained.
The longer you wait to collect and preserve evidence, the more likely critical evidence may be lost or destroyed, making it difficult to prove your case.
Recording Witness Statements While Memories Are Fresh
Another reason to file your claim quickly is that witness memories fade over time. For example, eyewitness testimony can be critical in proving liability in a motorcycle accident case, but obtaining witness statements as soon as possible is essential while memories are still fresh.
Waiting too long to gather witness testimony can result in a loss of critical information and can weaken your case.
Insurance Company Tactics
Additionally, the longer you wait to pursue legal action after a motorcycle accident, the more likely insurance companies will try to take advantage of the situation. Insurance companies often use various tactics to frustrate claimants into accepting whatever they finally offer.
One common tactic is to downplay the extent of injuries suffered by the motorcyclist or to argue that the accident didn’t cause your injuries.
They may also try to shift the blame for your wreck onto you or argue that you were partially at fault, which can reduce the compensation amount the insurance company is required to pay.
Motorcycle insurance companies commonly employ delayed responses to claims or refuse to provide the necessary information.
These tactics are designed to frustrate and push you to accept low settlement offers out of desperation and forgo legal action. This is particularly effective if you are not represented by an experienced motorcycle accident attorney who can evaluate your claim’s true value and negotiate on your behalf.
By hiring an experienced motorcycle accident attorney, however, you can level the playing field and ensure your legal rights are protected.
A Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Help
Don’t wait to seek legal representation if you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle wreck. At our firm, we’re here to provide you with the information and resources you need to navigate the legal aftermath of a crash.
Contact us today so we can match you with a skilled motorcycle accident lawyer who can help protect your rights and secure the compensation you need.