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Montrose Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident, you understand the stress and uncertainty that follows. At Stanley Law, we’re here to help. Our experienced team of motorcycle accident lawyers in Montrose is dedicated to fighting for the compensation you deserve. We understand the challenges you’re facing and are committed to providing the support and legal expertise needed to secure the best outcome for your case. Let us handle the legal complexities so you can focus on your recovery.
What To Expect After a Motorcycle Accident
After a motorcycle accident, you may find insurance companies trying to place the blame on you. Having a knowledgeable motorcycle accident attorney can be crucial. They are familiar with the specific laws regarding motorcycle accidents and can help you access the medical care you require. Your attorney will strive to show that the other driver was at fault and will support you through each legal step. Whether your case ends in a settlement or a courtroom trial, your lawyer will work hard to achieve a fair outcome and protect your rights.
What Should You Do After a Motorcycle Accident?
Acting promptly after a motorcycle accident is essential for your health and legal protection. Here’s what you should do:
- Seek Medical Attention: Visit a doctor right away, even if your injuries seem minor. This ensures your health and provides a record of your injuries for your case.
- File a Report: Call the police to report the accident. This official report is crucial for your insurance claim and any legal issues.
- Gather Evidence: If possible, take photos of the scene, get contact details of witnesses, and jot down what happened. This information will support your case.
- Avoid Admitting Fault: Do not say you’re at fault or discuss the accident with anyone except your lawyer.
- Contact a Lawyer: Reach out to a motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as you can. They will help protect your rights and work to get you the compensation you need.
- Notify Your Insurance: Inform your insurance company about the accident, but wait to give detailed statements until after you’ve spoken with your lawyer.
- Follow Medical Advice: Stick to your prescribed treatments and keep detailed records. This is important for your case.
By taking these steps, you can protect your rights and increase your chances of receiving fair compensation.
Understanding Who’s at Fault in a Motorcycle Accident
Most motorcycle accidents are caused by human errors, such as distracted driving or not signaling. In Pennsylvania, if you’re hurt in a motorcycle accident due to someone else’s mistake, you may be able to seek compensation from that person. For example, if a driver changes lanes without checking their blind spot and collides with a motorcyclist, causing serious injuries, you can file a personal injury claim against the driver.
Determining fault can be complex. The motorcyclist must show that the other driver was negligent or reckless, which caused the accident and injuries. This usually involves a detailed investigation, as various factors may be involved.
Sometimes, the motorcyclist might also share some fault, such as if they were speeding or breaking traffic laws. If the motorcyclist is partly to blame, their compensation might be reduced according to their level of fault. When fault is unclear, having an experienced lawyer is crucial. They can analyze the evidence, investigate the accident, and determine who is responsible, ensuring that all parties are held accountable and that the injured motorcyclist gets fair compensation.
Pennsylvania’s Comparative Negligence Rule
In Pennsylvania, the comparative negligence rule allows you to receive compensation even if you share some fault for your motorcycle accident. This rule means that you can still recover damages, but your compensation will be reduced based on your level of fault. For example, if you are found to be 30% at fault for the accident and the other driver is 70% at fault, you would be eligible to receive 70% of the total damages.
Having a knowledgeable motorcycle accident lawyer is vital in these situations. They can advocate on your behalf, work to minimize your share of the fault, and help you secure the maximum compensation you deserve, even if you are partially responsible for the accident.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents often result from human errors. Due to their smaller size, motorcycles can be harder to see, especially if drivers are not paying full attention.
Here are some frequent causes of motorcycle accidents:
- Driver Distraction: Activities like texting, talking on the phone, or eating while driving can take attention away from the road.
- Driver Impairment: Alcohol or drug use greatly increases the risk of accidents.
- Driver Fatigue: Tired drivers may have slower reaction times and less awareness.
- Speeding: Excessive speed reduces a driver’s ability to react to sudden changes, raising the risk of collisions.
- Improper Lane Changes: Failing to check blind spots or signal before changing lanes can cause accidents with motorcyclists.
- Road Hazards: Potholes, loose gravel, and other road hazards can be particularly dangerous for motorcycles.
- Inadequate Motorcycle Maintenance: Issues like faulty brakes or worn tires can lead to accidents.
Recognizing these causes can help in determining fault and improving safety to prevent future accidents.
Common Types of Motorcycle Accident Injuries
Motorcycle accidents can result in severe injuries due to the rider’s exposure. Even minor accidents can cause significant harm. Here are some common and serious injuries from motorcycle accidents:
- Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI): Brain damage from a strong impact, which can lead to long-lasting effects.
- Road Rash: Painful skin abrasions from sliding on the pavement, which can also lead to infections.
- Fractures: Broken bones in areas such as the ankles, wrists, and legs.
- Dislocations: Joints that are forced out of their normal position from the crash impact.
- Organ Damage: Injury to internal organs due to the force of the accident.
- Severe Burns: Burns from hot surfaces or spilled fuel.
- Infections: Infections from open wounds or road rash.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Damage to the spine, which can cause partial or complete paralysis.
- Wrongful Death: In fatal cases where the injuries result in death.
These injuries highlight the importance of wearing protective gear and seeking immediate medical attention after an accident.
How Much Can I Expect from My Motorcycle Accident Claim?
Clients often ask about the potential value of their motorcycle accident claim. Determining the exact amount can be difficult because it depends on various factors, including the severity of your injuries, evidence of fault, and how the accident affects your life long-term.
During your initial consultation, we’ll review your documents, discuss your injuries, and evaluate the medical treatment you’ll need. Our legal team will use this information to estimate your claim’s value. We’ll also work with financial experts to calculate future medical costs and lost income. This comprehensive approach helps us negotiate with the insurance company to secure the compensation you deserve.
Call A Montrose Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident in Montrose, having an experienced lawyer to guide you through the legal process is essential. At Stanley Law, we are committed to fighting for your rights and securing the compensation you need to recover fully. Don’t face this challenging time on your own—contact us for a free consultation and let us help you achieve the justice you deserve. Reach out today to get started.
