Motorcycle Accidents
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Additional Information
Motorcycle Collision Overview
If you've been riding a motorcycle for any length of time, you've probably had a few close calls. Drivers of passenger vehicles and tractor trailers just don't see bikers. How many times has another driver changed lanes without looking, forcing you to take evasive action? How many times have other drivers made a left turn right in front of you? How many times have you heard the skidding of tires behind you when stopped at a light, and wondered, "Is this it?" while thinking you would be rear-ended?
Unfortunately, it seems to be more dangerous to ride a motorcycle these days, and it's most likely due to distracted driving. Too many drivers are looking at their phones instead of paying attention to the road, and they're putting bikers’ lives in grave danger.
If you have been injured in an accident while riding a motorcycle, you may be able to pursue compensation for your injuries and losses. To secure the settlement you deserve, you will need the representation of a top Phoenix motorcycle accident attorney. The Husband & Wife Law Team has been successfully representing Arizona injury victims for over 20 years. Let us put our decades of experience behind your claim by contacting us for a free consultation.
Motorcycles vs. Passenger Vehicles
Many locals are riding as part of their daily commute. Also, motorcycles are relatively inexpensive when compared to larger passenger vehicles. However, motorcycles are more vulnerable to dangerous roadway conditions, are difficult to maneuver, and provide no protection to riders in the event of a collision.
Truthfully, motorcycles carry for more risk than other vehicles, such as cars. A motorcycle lacks an airbag, seatbelt, is less stable, and, of course, doesn’t provide an extra protective layer of metal around the driver and passengers. Motorcyclists will often suffer more severe injuries when in an accident, and these injuries will usually take longer to heal, meaning higher medical bills.
There is also a difference in the way people view motorcyclists than those who drive cars. Jurors often perceive motorcyclists as more dangerous and as risk-takers when in court. Whether you wear all the protective gear, keep your motorcycle well maintained, and follow all rules of the road or not, there are still stereotypes attached to motorcyclists.
Loving a particular mode of transportation doesn’t make you any less of a victim when involved in a crash. You need an experienced attorney to make jurors understand why they need to treat motorcyclists the same as car drivers.
You enjoy riding, but you also take it seriously. You work at being a good driver because your life depends on it. Unfortunately, drivers of passenger vehicles don't have the same relationship with their cars. Most of them don't love to drive; they drive to get someplace, run some errands, or drop the kids off at school. And being a good driver isn't all that important to them: they've got seat belts, airbags, crumple zones, and a big steel shell surrounding them. Motorcycle riders have none of that.
Dangerous driving behaviors that can lead to a motorcycle accident include:
Driving under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs
Speeding or tailgating
Distracted driving
Fatigued driving
Failing to yield the right-of-way
Making an unsafe lane change without first looking for a motorcyclist
Motorcycle Accident Client Testimonial
Motorcycle Accident Review
“I was riding my motorcycle & a man backed out of a driveway & ran me over. Four months later, I lost my leg. Mark Breyer made a great difference in my life.”- E. S.
Compensation for Damages
If you've been in a motorcycle accident because of a careless, negligent, or reckless car driver, you may seek compensation for any of the following damages:
Current and future medical bills related to your injury (such as reconstructive surgeries, skin grafts, etc.)
Costs of physical therapy or rehabilitation
Pain and suffering
Loss of a limb
Full or partial paralysis
Property loss or damage
Lost wages, loss of career, or lost earning capacity
Wrongful death damages
A "wrongful death" is when a driver who is violating the law or behaving in a careless manner kills a motorcyclist.
Victims' families face significant emotional and financial burdens in the aftermath of a fatal motorcycle crash. These family members, who may include a spouse, children, siblings, parents, or anyone else who was financially dependent on the victim, often have the option to offset these costs with a wrongful death claim. A successful wrongful death claim can result in financial support for losses such as the medical bills incurred before the victim died, his or her funeral expenses, future income, and pain and suffering. While a criminal case can punish a wrongdoer, it does not provide any type of monetary compensation for struggling families.
Given that motorcyclists are thirty times as likely as car drivers to be killed when involved in an accident, it is incredibly important to understand wrongful death claims. Death is tragic and painful, but if you understand your rights some justice can be done.
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I do after a motorcycle accident?
Whether you were in a lay down accident, rear-end crash, or any other type of collision, this is a crucial moment in the timeline of your case. Priority one is to seek medical care, especially if your injuries might be subtle or hard to detect. If you are able, you also want to collect important information from the scene. This can include anything from the other drivers' information to observations about time, place, road conditions, and any obstacles that may have played a role in the wreck. In the days ahead, be assiduous about assembling documentation from other sources, including police reports, medical records, and any correspondence that occurs with insurance carriers.
Who can be held liable for injuries resulting from a Phoenix motorcycle crash?
Anyone operating a vehicle that was involved in the accident could possibly be held liable. In addition, insurance companies, pedestrians, or public entities responsible for maintaining roadways could also possibly be held liable.
If a car, truck, or other motorcycle drives my bike off the road and then flees, can I file a personal injury claim?
Yes, this would be considered a hit-and-run accident. In such cases, you have to file a claim through your motorcycle insurance company in order to receive compensation for medical care and related expenses. You may even file a motorcycle accident claim if a family member has the right coverage, or with your car insurance company.
Do I need an expert to testify in a motorcycle liability case?
Well, it depends. In motorcycle accident cases that are straightforward and where liability is not contested, you may not need an expert. However, in more complicated cases, like those that may involve a manufacturing defect, you may require a forensic investigator to evaluate the evidence and provide expert testimony if your case goes to trial.
If I don't have motorcycle insurance, can I still make a personal injury claim?
Yes. Even if you don't have insurance, that doesn't mean you lose your right to hold a negligent party accountable for injuries you suffered.
The Representation You Need for the Justice You Deserve
If you have been injured or lost a loved one in a motorcycle accident, you will need the representation of an experienced injury lawyer. That's where The Husband & Wife Law Team can help.
Our goal is to provide compassionate legal representation to families who are facing these formidable challenges. We will remain on your side through what can be a complex process, fight for your rights every step of the way, and work diligently to ensure that you are fairly compensated. We want you to walk away properly compensated for your significant losses and medical coverage. Please contact us for a free and comprehensive case evaluation.