We understand that suffering injuries in a motorcycle accident can be a terrifying ordeal. Finding the best motorcycle accident lawyer is crucial for victims who may encounter economic damages such as motorcycle repairs, medical bills, and lost wages due to missed work. Additionally, there are noneconomic damages, including pain and suffering and a reduced quality of life, particularly in cases of severe injuries. Riding a motorcycle comes with a higher risk of accidents and injuries compared to most other vehicles, making it essential for everyone to exercise caution when motorcyclists are on the road.
Common causes of motorcycle accidents include:
- Motorcycle Collisions: Collisions are the leading cause of motorcycle accidents. One common scenario is when cars making left turns strike motorcyclists due to factors like low visibility, driver distraction, or speeding. Other collision causes include head-on crashes with other vehicles and motorcyclists hitting stationary objects such as poles or fire hydrants.
- Road Hazards: Motorcycles are less stable than cars, so it’s crucial for motorcyclists to be vigilant about road hazards that can lead to severe accidents. Common hazards include bumpy roads, slick pavement, puddles, railroad crossings, road debris, and gravel.
- Lane Splitting and Other Motorcyclist Behaviors: Lane splitting, where a motorcycle rides between lanes, especially in congested traffic, can lead to accidents. Other risky behaviors include riding under the influence of alcohol, speeding, and not wearing a helmet.
For motorcyclists, safety is paramount. If you currently ride or plan to own a motorcycle, read our blog here on Motorcycle Safety.
Selecting the right motorcycle accident attorney is crucial to the success of your claim. Choosing the wrong lawyer could lead to high legal fees without improving your chances of a favorable settlement. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve created this guide to finding the best motorcycle accident lawyer for your needs.
Estimating the Total Damages for Your Motorcycle Accident
Firstly, calculating the damages from a motorcycle accident involves several factors. Settlements for low-speed motorcycle accidents have an average range from $5,000 to $10,000, covering medical expenses and property damage. Injuries commonly include road rash, lacerations, contusions to the foot, shoulder, and elbow, and mild concussions.
Property damage in these accidents often involves front-end and gas tank damage to the motorcycle. These cases typically settle out of court within a few months, providing quick relief to the riders involved. Understanding the specifics of these settlements helps riders manage similar situations effectively and ensures they secure adequate compensation for their injuries and damages.
High-speed collisions with severe injuries often result in substantial settlements, reflecting the extensive medical treatment and long-term care required.
Your attorney can help determine the potential settlement by assessing various damages, including but not limited to:
- The cost of the ambulance ride from the accident scene to the hospital
- Medical treatment expenses and extended hospital stays, if necessary
- Costs of ongoing physical therapy
- Expenses for modifications to your home to accommodate your injuries
- Lost wages due to time off work
- Compensation for pain and suffering
- Costs to repair or replace your damaged motorcycle
There may be additional expenses not listed here. Discussing your damages with a motorcycle accident attorney will help outline the total estimated amount you could receive in your settlement. According to Jury Verdict Research, the average motorcycle accident settlement in the U.S. from 1999 to 2006 was approximately $73,700. Present-day averages are expected to be higher.
Locate Local Lawyers
Identify local motorcycle accident attorneys. Local lawyers are familiar with the specific laws and regulations in your area. You can find local lawyers through:
- Recommendations: Ask friends, family, or neighbors for referrals.
- Online Search: Use search terms like “motorcycle accident lawyer near me” or include your city name.
- Local Bar Association: Search for your city’s bar association, which often has a “find a lawyer” feature.
Narrow Down Your Options
Once you find the best motorcycle accident lawyers, narrow your choices by considering their experience, conducting interviews, assessing their work styles, and discussing fees.
- Review Experience and Licenses: Ensure the attorney specializes in motorcycle accidents and has the necessary licenses to practice in your area. Check their success stories and educational background on their website.
- Interview Top Choices: Use free consultations to ask about their experience with similar cases, their strategy for your case, and their success rate in settlements.
- Assess Work Styles: Evaluate the attorney’s professionalism, compassion, attention to detail, and commitment during your interactions.
- Discuss Fees: Clarify each attorney’s fees and associated costs to ensure they fit within your budget.
Make Your Choice
After gathering all necessary information, choose the motorcycle accident lawyer who best fits your needs. At Howard Injury Law, we serve Nevada, California, and Arizona and we can enhance your chances of securing maximum compensation so you can focus on moving forward with your life after a motorcycle accident.
Contact Howard Injury Law:
📲 702.331.5722
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