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Whether you’re riding a motorcycle in Pennsylvania’s diverse array of scenic rural routes or Philadelphia’s historic urban streets, exhilarating experiences are almost guaranteed. However, regardless of where in the Keystone State you and your bike may travel, or how experienced a rider you are, accidents are unfortunately part of the hobby.
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident, the Philadelphia motorcycle accident lawyers at PhillyLaw are here to help. For over 40 years, our firm has represented motorcycle riders in a variety of scenarios and has successfully secured millions of dollars in settlement awards on their behalf. Contact us today for a free consultation.
How Your Philadelphia Motorcycle Lawyer Will Help You Recover After a Motorcycle Crash
What does a motorcycle accident lawyer do? At PhillyLaw, we take a comprehensive approach in every case.
First, we meticulously gather evidence and construct a compelling case to help you secure the compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, and other damages incurred from your motorcycle accident. Additionally, we manage all communications with insurance companies, relieving you of the stress so you can focus on your recovery.
How Your Philadelphia Motorcycle Accident Attorney Will Prove Liability
To successfully claim compensation after a motorcycle accident, the primary goal is to prove that the other party was at fault. Your Philadelphia motorcycle accident attorney will gather and analyze evidence such as police reports, eyewitness testimonies, medical reports, and traffic camera footage to reconstruct the accident scene. Additionally, our firm may consult with accident reconstruction experts to further substantiate how the other party’s negligence contributed to the accident.
Types of Damages You Can Recover from a Motorcycle Accident
There are several types of damages you may be able to recover in your case. These generally fall into three main categories: economic, non-economic, and, in some cases, punitive damages.
Economic Damages
Economic damages cover tangible losses such as medical bills, including future medical treatments related to your injuries, lost wages, and property damage to your motorcycle as a result of the motorcycle accident.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are for intangible losses, which include pain and suffering, emotional distress, loss of enjoyment of life, and loss of consortium.
Punitive Damages
Although less common, punitive damages may also be awarded in motorcycle accident lawsuit cases where the defendant’s conduct is found to be especially harmful, serving as a punishment to the offender and a deterrent to others.
Will I Have to File a Lawsuit for My Motorcycle Accident?
It largely depends on the circumstances surrounding your motorcycle crash. In the vast majority of instances, settlements can be reached through negotiations with the involved insurance companies without the need for formal litigation. However, if taking your case to court is in your best interest, our motorcycle accident law firm is fully prepared to represent you aggressively to achieve the compensation you deserve.
Understanding the Statute of Limitations for Motorcycle Accidents in Pennsylvania
In Pennsylvania, you generally have two years from the date of the motorcycle accident to initiate your case against the party responsible for your injuries. However, some exceptions may extend or shorten this period, depending on specific circumstances, such as the age of the victim or if the accident resulted in a fatality. Due to these complexities, it is essential to consult with a Philadelphia motorcycle accident attorney as soon as possible after your motorcycle crash.
What to Do if You Are Injured in a Motorcycle Accident
After a motorcycle accident, taking the right steps can significantly impact the outcome of any future legal action. If you find yourself injured:
Seek Immediate Medical Attention
Your health is the top priority. Even if you believe your injuries are minor, symptoms can appear later that indicate more serious conditions.
Report the Accident
Notify the police about the accident. A police report can be vital evidence for your case.
Collect Evidence
If possible, take photographs of the accident scene, your injuries, and any damages to your motorcycle. Gather names and contact information of witnesses.
Avoid Discussing Fault
Be cautious not to admit fault or make statements that could be interpreted against you later on. The determination of fault should be left to investigators and legal professionals.
Contact a Motorcycle Accident Attorney
Before dealing with insurance companies, consult with a motorcycle accident attorney at PhillyLaw. Our skilled Philadelphia motorcycle accident lawyers can provide crucial advice and protect your rights throughout the claims process.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents occur for a myriad of reasons, often involving complex factors. Some of the most common causes include:
Driver Inattention
Distraction and lack of awareness by vehicle drivers are significant contributors to motorcycle accidents. Motorcycles are smaller and can easily end up in a vehicle’s blind spot or be overlooked.
Speeding
Both motorcyclists and other drivers exceeding speed limits can lead to accidents due to reduced reaction times and increased stopping distances.
Left-Turn Accidents
Many accidents happen when a vehicle makes a left turn in front of an oncoming motorcycle, either misjudging the motorcycle’s speed or not seeing it at all.
Road Conditions
Potholes, slick road surfaces, loose gravel, and other poor road conditions are more hazardous for motorcycles than for cars, potentially leading to loss of control.
Impairment
Operating a motorcycle or vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly increases the risk of an accident due to impaired judgment and slowed reaction times.
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Motorcycle accidents, given the less protective nature of the vehicle compared to cars, often result in a range of personal injuries that can vary from minor to serious injuries. These injuries include:
Road Rash
When riders are thrown from their motorcycles and skid across the pavement, they can suffer from road rash—a painful abrasion that can range from surface scrapes to deep wounds requiring surgical intervention.
Bone Fractures
The force of impact during a motorcycle accident frequently leads to broken or fractured bones. The wrists, arms, legs, and ribs are particularly susceptible to fractures.
Head and Brain Injuries
Despite wearing a helmet, motorcyclists are at a high risk for traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and concussions when they are involved in motor vehicle accidents, which can have lasting effects on cognitive function, memory, and emotional well-being.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Injuries to the spinal cord can occur from the severe impact associated with motorcycle accidents, potentially leading to temporary or permanent paralysis.
Internal Injuries
The impact can cause internal bleeding and damage to organs. These injuries might not be immediately obvious but can be life-threatening if not treated promptly.
Fatal Motorcycle Accidents
According to the latest motorcycle accident statistics, motorcycle accidents have a higher likelihood of being fatal compared to car accidents, primarily due to the exposed nature of the motorcycle rider. Without the protective shell that cars provide, motorcyclists are more vulnerable to being directly hit by vehicles or obstacles, leading to severe, immediate injuries or death.
The high speed at which many motorcycle accidents occur also contributes to the severity of collisions, amplifying the force of impact and, thus, the potential for fatal outcomes. Even with helmets and protective gear, the sheer force of impact can lead to critical head, neck, or spinal injuries, often resulting in fatalities.
Wrongful Death Benefits for Fatal Motorcycle Accidents
In Pennsylvania, families facing the tragedy of a fatal motorcycle accident may qualify for wrongful death benefits. These benefits are designed to compensate the family members of the deceased for the financial and emotional losses they sustain due to their loved one’s untimely death. Compensation may include funeral and burial expenses, lost wages and benefits the deceased would have earned, medical expenses incurred before death, and damages for the loss of companionship, support, and guidance.
Protective Measures for Motorcycle Riders
Motorcycle riders can significantly reduce the risk of injuries by adopting proactive safety measures.
Wear Appropriate Protective Gear
Wearing appropriate protective gear, such as helmets that meet the Department of Transportation (DOT) standards, leather or reinforced jackets, gloves, and boots, provides crucial protection against road rash, fractures, and head injuries.
Attend a Motorcycle Safety Course
Regularly attending motorcycle safety courses can sharpen riding skills and increase situational awareness, teaching riders how to anticipate and react to potential hazards effectively.
Regular Maintenance of a Motorcycle
Maintaining the motorcycle in optimal condition, with particular attention to brakes, tires, and lights, ensures that the bike responds as expected in critical moments.
Avoid Risky Behaviors While Riding
Additionally, avoiding careless or reckless actions like speeding, lane splitting in non-permissible areas, and riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs greatly lowers the chances of accidents. Adhering to these practices not only enhances the safety of the rider but also contributes to the overall safety of the road for all users.
A Philadelphia Motorcycle Accident Lawyer at PhillyLaw is Here to Help You Understand Your Rights
If you or a loved one has been injured or tragically killed in a motorcycle accident, PhillyLaw is here to help. Our 40 years of case history in motorcycle accident claims in Philadelphia, and our dedicated and knowledgeable team, are just a few reasons why we think that our lawyers are the best motorcycle accident lawyers in the City of Brotherly Love. Contact us today for a free consultation.
