Motorcycle crashes can have tragic consequences, often leading to major injuries and considerable financial burdens for victims. If you've been hurt in a motorcycle crash in Peoria, you should understand your legal rights and the steps you can take to recover compensation.
We are ready to fight for you at Genesis Personal Injury & Accident Lawyers. Learn more below. Then, contact us for a free consultation.
Motorcycle crashes are particularly risky because of the lack of protective barriers that motorcycle riders face compared to other vehicles. Unlike cars, motorcycles have little protection in the event of a collision, which often leads to catastrophic injuries or even death for motorcyclists.
Motorcycle accidents happen for countless reasons, often because of the negligent actions of other drivers. Some common causes of motorcycle accidents include:
Knowing these causes is essential for determining liability in a motorcycle accident case.
Motorcycle accident victims may suffer severe injuries because of the lack of protection during a crash. A few examples of common injuries include:
If you've sustained any of these injuries in a motorcycle accident, it's critical to seek medical attention immediately. Early treatment not only aids in recovery but also creates vital medical records that can support your motorcycle accident claim.
The legal process after a motorcycle crash can be overwhelming, especially when there are severe injuries and mounting medical bills. An experienced Peoria motorcycle accident lawyer can make all the difference in your case, helping you recover compensation for your losses.
Most motorcycle accident attorneys offer a free initial consultation to discuss your case. At this consultation, the lawyer will discuss the details of the accident, assess the injuries sustained, and explain your legal options.
Your lawyer will complete a deep investigation of the motorcycle crash, gathering relevant evidence such as police records, witness statements, and pictures of the accident scene. This investigation is essential for determining liability and building a strong case on your behalf.
Insurers often attempt to minimize payouts or deny claims altogether. A knowledgeable lawyer will handle all communications with the insurance carriers, ensuring your rights are protected and you receive fair compensation for your injuries.
If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, your attorney may file a motorcycle accident lawsuit. This means taking legal action against the responsible parties to recover damages for your injuries and other losses.
A skilled Peoria motorcycle accident attorney will work to recover maximum compensation for your medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. They will also pursue compensation for non-economic damages. These may include emotional trauma and loss of enjoyment of life.
If you've been hurt in a motorcycle crash, taking the right steps immediately afterward can change the outcome of your motorcycle crash claim. Here's what you should do:
The first and most important step is to see a doctor. Even if you feel alright, some injuries, including internal injuries or traumatic brain injuries, may not show symptoms right away. Medical records from your emergency room visit will be indispensable evidence in your motorcycle accident case.
If you can, snap pictures of the accident scene, your motorcycle, and visible injuries. In addition, gather contact information from witnesses who saw the accident occur.
File a report with local authorities, such as the police or the Arizona Department of Transportation. An official report can serve as vital evidence in your motorcycle accident case.
Consult with an experienced Peoria motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible. Your lawyer will walk you through the legal process, handle communications with the insurance company, and help you pursue compensation for your injuries.
Motorcycle accident victims could be deserving of compensation for a range of damages, including:
Motorcycle crashes often lead to major medical bills. These may include emergency room visits, surgeries, medications, and ongoing rehabilitation costs. Compensation can cover these expenses, ensuring you don't bear the financial burden alone.
If you cannot work, you could be entitled to compensation for your lost income during your recovery. In cases of severe or catastrophic injuries, you may also demand compensation for future lost wages.
Damages for pain and suffering mean compensation for physical pain and emotional trauma caused by the accident. This is key in motorcycle accident cases, where injuries are often grim.
If your motorcycle was damaged or destroyed in the crash, you could be compensated for the cost of repairs or replacement.
In addition to economic damages, you may also be deserving of non-economic damages. These refer to compensation for emotional distress, loss of companionship, or diminished quality of life.
Determining liability in a motorcycle accident case is critical for recovering compensation. Several factors can influence who is held liable for the accident:
Other drivers are often liable for motorcycle crashes because of negligent actions, such as distracted driving, impaired driving, or failing to check blind spots. In these cases, the other vehicle's driver can be held liable for the accident.
Sometimes, road hazards such as potholes, debris, or poorly maintained roads can cause motorcycle crashes. In these cases, the government entity responsible for maintaining the road may be held liable.
If a motorcycle accident comes from a defect in the motorcycle itself, such as faulty brakes or tires, the manufacturer or distributor of the motorcycle may be held liable.
In some cases, the motorcyclist may be found partially responsible for the accident. Arizona follows the principle of comparative negligence, which means that if the motorcyclist is found to be partially at fault, their compensation may be cut by the percentage of their fault. A knowledgeable lawyer will work to minimize any claims of comparative negligence and ensure you receive fair compensation.
Submitting a motorcycle accident claim involves several steps, and being familiar with the legal process can help you know what to expect:
Your legal process begins with an initial consultation with a Peoria motorcycle accident attorney. During this meeting, the lawyer will assess your case and explain your legal options.
Your lawyer will complete the accident investigation, gathering evidence such as police reports, medical records, and witness statements. This investigation is essential for building a strong case.
Once the investigation is complete, your lawyer will submit a motorcycle accident claim with the defendant's insurance company. The claim will detail the injuries sustained, the required medical treatment, and the compensation you seek.
The insurance company will go through the claim and may offer a settlement. Your lawyer will negotiate to ensure that the settlement is fair and covers all your damages.
If a fair settlement cannot be reached, your lawyer may recommend taking legal action by filing a motorcycle accident lawsuit. Throughout the legal process, your lawyer will represent your best interests and fight for the compensation you deserve.
Motorcycle accidents can have life-altering consequences, leading to severe injuries, emotional trauma, and financial stress. If you've been involved in a motorcycle accident in Peoria, take action to protect your legal rights. An experienced Peoria motorcycle accident lawyer can help you work through the legal process, assign liability, and recover the compensation you deserve.
At Genesis Personal Injury & Accident Lawyers, we help motorcycle accident victims secure the financial recovery they need to move forward. Contact our law office today for a free consultation.
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