Ironically, the very reason riding a motorcycle can be so exhilarating is also the reason motorcycle accidents can be so disastrous. It is your freedom from a car’s “cage” that makes you so vulnerable in a motorcycle accident.
However, the fact remains that you should be free to ride a motorcycle if you choose without fearing that a careless driver will strike and potentially injure you.
At the same time, if you have indeed experienced a motorcycle crash and need someone to fight for your right to recover restitution for your injuries, trust a Moran Law Group motorcycle accident lawyer in Scranton, PA.
How Motorcycle Accidents Happen
According to studies by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, nearly 75% of all motorcycle accidents, and 50% of fatal accidents, involve two vehicles. The second is usually a car, and the motorcyclist almost always fares worse.
The most common factors in motorcycle accidents include:
- Inexperienced riders or drivers
- Speeding
- Alcohol & drugs
- Distractions (texting, talking on a cell phone, eating)
- Weaving in and out of traffic
- Not using a turn signal
- Driving on the wrong side of the road
- Tailgating
- Lane splitting
- Poor weather conditions
- Unexpected obstacles
- Under-cornering
- Over braking
- Vehicle defects
- Road defects (potholes, broken asphalt)
- Harassment and road rage
- Failing to wear protective gear (helmet, leather)
The High Cost of Motorcycle Accidents
You should know that if you are riding a motorcycle and get into a car crash in Scranton, PA, it is usually the front of the motorcycle that gets hit. This is also the point of impact that results in the most incapacitating and fatal injuries. If you have been in a motorcycle accident, you may already have a good idea of its cost, including physical and emotional pain, expensive medical bills, lost wages, and property damage.
Identifying every potential factor in an accident is important in determining who is at fault (or what percent each person is at fault) and financially responsible.
“Fault” can be a complex issue on which you, the other driver, police and emergency responders, and insurance companies do not agree. It is even further complicated if there were equipment failures, poor road conditions, public vehicles, commercial trucks, or obstacles involved.
A Moran Law Group attorney can help prepare your strongest arguments and may even retain a private investigator to help build your case. But you must act quickly. The insurance companies will want to settle as quickly as they can. They will not want to wait to discover that you have long-term medical and disability issues.
To them, it’s just business. To you, it is your future. Do not agree to any settlement without talking to an attorney.
Seek Help from a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Scranton, PA
An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer in Scranton, PA, can help you:
- Understand your legal options
- Investigate the accident
- Challenge the police report’s findings
- Help prevent insurance companies from settling too soon
- Ensure that your long-term medical, psychological, and financial needs are identified
- Fight for compensation
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Many people enjoy riding motorcycles, whether it’s their primary mode of transportation or only doing it now and then. However, riding a motorcycle can also be very dangerous. Motorcyclists can do everything in their power to be safe on the road, but that doesn’t mean an accident won’t occur. If other drivers are negligent, motorcyclists can be put at serious risk. Motorcycle accidents are often extremely traumatic and can completely change a person’s life in seconds. When this happens, it’s important to get the right help on your side.
At The Moran Law Group, we help victims of motorcycle accidents receive the financial compensation they deserve for their accidents. If you need a motorcycle accident lawyer in Jermyn, PA, you can rely on us for the support you need.
Any accident can result in severe injuries for those involved, but motorcyclists are more at risk of this occurring than others on the road. Unlike other drivers and passengers, motorcyclists don’t have anything to protect them during an accident. An accident that might only be minor for others can be life-threatening for motorcyclists.
Here are some of the most common injuries caused by motorcycle accidents.
Traumatic Brain Injuries
Even if a motorcyclist is wearing their helmet, they’re at risk of suffering from traumatic brain injuries if an accident occurs. There are many ways a motorcycle accident can cause these injuries, such as when a motorcyclist is hit by another vehicle or when they fall to the ground. Traumatic brain injuries often have long-lasting effects on victims and can potentially be fatal.
Road Rash
When a motorcyclist falls onto the road during an accident, they often suffer from road rash. This can sometimes be minor scrapes but can also be serious abrasions where multiple layers of skin are removed. Road rash could become seriously infected, putting victims at even more risk. After road rash heals, victims are often left with large scars.
Spinal Cord Injuries
Motorcyclists are at serious risk of spinal cord injuries during an accident, as they have nothing to protect their backs if one occurs. Spinal cord injuries can cause a person to be paralyzed permanently after the accident.
Internal Injuries
A motorcycle accident can cause severe damage to a motorcyclist’s internal organs and internal bleeding. This might not be noticeable immediately if the skin isn’t broken, so it’s crucial to get medical help following an accident to be aware of any injuries before they worsen.
Fractures
Fractures can happen easily in many motorcycle accidents. Many fractures caused by motorcycle accidents involve the wrists, arms, feet, and legs. While these are the most common fractures, motorcyclists can suffer from any type of fracture and could have multiple.
Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Jermyn, PA
Many motorcycle accident victims have a long road to recovery ahead of them, and even then, they may never fully recover and return to their old lives. No one should have to go through the pain and suffering that motorcycle accidents can cause, but it’s a reality for many people. To help give victims the best chance at getting the compensation they need after these accidents, The Moran Law Group is here to provide expert legal support and expertise.
Contact The Moran Law Group today to learn more about how a personal injury lawyer in Jermyn, PA, can help after a motorcycle accident.
Why You Need a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Carbondale, PA
You don’t have to be an expert in physics or road safety to understand the hazards that reckless drivers pose to motorcyclists. Drivers of regular four-wheeled vehicles are somewhat more protected by the steel and glass around them, but motorcyclists have nothing between them and the pavement.
Of course, this is the whole point of riding a motorcycle. People like the exhilaration of driving on two wheels, feeling the wind in their faces as they go.
Unfortunately, this experience leaves motorcyclists open to suffering potentially catastrophic injuries if another driver hits them. All drivers must follow the rules of the road to keep everyone safe, but even one careless act from another motorist can change a motorcyclist’s life forever.
If a negligent driver injured you while you were riding a motorcycle, you might be entitled to compensation.
When you need a motorcycle accident lawyer in Carbondale, PA, call the Moran Law Group. We have more than 50 years of combined experience defending the rights of accident victims. We will fight the insurance companies to get you the settlement you deserve for your injuries.
You might be wondering why you would need a lawyer after a motorcycle accident. After all, wouldn’t the insurer of the driver who hit you pay for your medical expenses if you were hurt?
The answer isn’t always obvious. Insurance companies are for-profit businesses that make their money by refusing payments if they are able. The other driver’s insurance may not pay you everything you’re rightly owed and could even blame you for the accident. It is a common refrain among insurers to point the finger at motorcyclists for accidents.
If you are having trouble obtaining the compensation you need to recover from your injuries, that’s where a personal injury lawyer in Carbondale, PA, can come through for you.
Here are three ways a Moran Law Group attorney can help you.
- We’ll collect evidence for you. Demanding compensation for any kind of personal injury requires robust documentation of the evidence. Courts need to see your insurance information, medical bills, and records of medical care, which indicate that you indeed sought treatment from a doctor. If your injuries have prevented you from working, we’ll also collect paperwork showing how much you have lost.
- We’ll make your case for compensation. Having all this evidence is not enough, however. Accident victims also need a legal expert who knows how to build a case, putting the facts together to prove that they deserve compensation. We will structure your documentation to make that case to the defense.
- We’ll negotiate. When it comes to personal injury lawsuits, not all settlements are created equal. You deserve what you deserve, period. If the defense comes in with a lowball amount that won’t cover your expenses, we won’t accept it. We will negotiate for a settlement that takes care of what you need, including pain and suffering where applicable. If the defense doesn’t agree to our terms, we will go to court for you to win you what you need.
Call Us Now for a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Carbondale, PA
You should not have to fear for your life when you get on a motorcycle. Unfortunately, many insurance companies side against motorcyclists in personal injury cases, even when a negligent driver caused your accident.
If you’ve been hurt in an accident that wasn’t your fault, and you’re not being paid what you’re owed, the Moran Law Group can help. Our lawyers have decades of combined experience defending victims like you. When you bring your case to us, we get right to work, winning you what you need to recover and move on.
Call us right now to schedule your free consultation and get your case moving.
Frequently Asked Legal Questions About Motorcycle Accidents:
What should I do immediately after a motorcycle accident?
If you’re involved in a motorcycle accident, your first priority should be to ensure your safety and the safety of others. If you’re able to move and it’s safe, get off the road to avoid further danger. Check for injuries and call 911 to report the accident and request medical help if necessary. Even if you feel fine, it’s crucial to seek medical attention as some injuries may not be immediately apparent. Exchange information with the other driver, including contact details, insurance information, and vehicle registration numbers. Take photographs of the accident scene, including all vehicles involved, any skid marks, road conditions, and street signs, which can be valuable evidence. Notify your insurance company about the accident but refrain from admitting fault or discussing details until you’ve consulted with a lawyer.
How is fault determined in motorcycle accidents?
Determining fault in motorcycle accidents typically involves investigating whether any party violated traffic laws, engaged in reckless driving, or was negligent. Police reports, witness statements, and evidence from the accident scene play crucial roles in establishing liability. In some cases, traffic cameras or dashcam footage can also provide clear proof of fault. Additionally, in jurisdictions with comparative negligence laws, fault may be shared among drivers according to their degree of responsibility for the accident. It’s beneficial to hire an attorney experienced in motorcycle accident claims, as they can help gather the necessary evidence and expert testimonies to build a strong case for your claim.
What types of compensation can I claim after a motorcycle accident?
After a motorcycle accident, you may be eligible for various types of compensation. These can include medical expenses for both immediate and ongoing treatment, lost wages if you’re unable to work due to your injuries, and compensation for pain and suffering. If you’ve suffered severe injuries that lead to long-term effects or disabilities, claims can also be made for future medical care, rehabilitation costs, and loss of future earnings. Additionally, you might receive compensation for repairs or replacement of your motorcycle and any damaged personal property. In cases of extreme negligence, punitive damages might be awarded to punish the responsible party and deter similar behavior. An attorney can guide you through the types of compensation you might be entitled to based on the specifics of your case.
What are the common causes of motorcycle accidents and how can they affect my claim?
Common causes of motorcycle accidents include driver negligence, such as speeding, distracted driving, or failure to yield, which can significantly affect the dynamics of your claim. Accidents caused by road hazards like potholes, poor road design, or inadequate signage can also lead to claims against governmental entities responsible for road maintenance. Weather conditions and mechanical failures are other contributing factors. The cause of the accident not only determines who is liable but also influences the strategy your lawyer might adopt in pursuing your claim. Understanding the cause is critical in building a strong case for compensation and in negotiations with insurance companies.
How long do I have to file a claim after a motorcycle accident, and what can affect this timeline?
Similar to automobile accidents, the statute of limitations for filing a claim after a motorcycle accident varies by state, typically ranging from one to three years from the date of the accident. It’s crucial to consult with an attorney soon after your accident to ensure compliance with these deadlines. Certain factors, such as accidents involving government vehicles or property, might require filing a notice of claim much sooner, sometimes within a few months. Missing these deadlines can prevent you from filing a claim altogether. Additionally, the timeline for filing can be influenced by ongoing medical treatments, as it might be advisable to understand the full extent of injuries before finalizing a claim. An experienced attorney can help navigate these complexities and ensure all deadlines are met.
Recovering from a motorcycle accident can be a long, hard road. The extent of your injuries in a motorcycle accident will be determined by what kind of crash you experienced.
A large truck going up against a motorcycle will likely not end well. Additionally, with commercial interstate trucks, the laws become more complicated regarding liability and insurance, so you’d need an expert Scranton truck accident lawyer to help you work through the details.
Whatever the extent of your injuries, you should not have to travel down that road to recovery alone if someone else’s carelessness caused your accident. If another driver caused your motorcycle accident and subsequent pain and suffering, we want to talk to you. We will defend your rights as a victim and ensure that you are not burdened with bills you are not rightly responsible for.
Contact the Moran Law Group now for a free consultation, and let’s work together to get you the compensation you are owed.