Best Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Mobile

FAQs

• What is the non-emergency contact number for the local police station in Mobile, Alabama?

  251-208-7211 is the non-emergency number for the police in Mobile.

• Where can you get a copy of the police report for the accident in Mobile, Alabama?

  The City of Mobile Police Department Headquarters at 2460 Government Blvd, Mobile, AL 36606, keeps accident reports and an online portal is available to facilitate requests.

• What are common kinds of injuries faced by Mobile motorcycle accident victims?

  Motorcycle accident victims in Mobile face road rash and muscle damage from crashes. Head and spinal cord injuries are common and lead to permanent disabilities and lifestyle degradation. Biker's arm occurs when a rider attempts to use upper limbs to protect vital organs. The monetary award for these bodily harms has varied from $125 thousand to over a million in value.

• Why do motorcycle accidents happen in Mobile?

  Motorcycle accidents happen in Mobile because of drivers who drive their vehicles too fast and who are either drowsy or drunk behind the wheel. Fully rested motorists pose a risk if they are distracted while behind the wheel. A motorcycle rider can also causes trouble when failing to make a turn safely.

• How can a motorcycle rider in Mobile avert accusations of contributory negligence?

  To prevent erring drivers from claiming contributory negligence, a motorcycle rider in Mobile must wear a helmet approved by the Department of Transportation. It is also advisable to wear protective outer clothing that is reflective to increase visibility. A biker should signal turn changes and leave plenty of room between the cycle and nearby vehicles.

• What are the damages recoverable in Mobile for motorcycle accidents?

  The damages recoverable in Mobile for motorcycle accidents include intangible harm like emotional suffering and mental distress. Quantifiable sums like the value of unrealized wages due to medical treatment, and the continuing loss of earning capacity, are recoverable. Property losses are also subject to legal compensation by the erring party.

• What is the effect of contributory negligence on motorcycle accident cases in Mobile?

  The contributory negligence laws in Mobile follow those of Alabama, which completely prevents recovery of any damages if the party claiming compensation was even one percent at fault for a personal injury or motorcycle crash. Partial recovery is not allowed, unlike in neighboring states. A lawyer is key and has ties with accident reconstruction experts who can pin the blame solely on the defendant.

• What does a motorcycle accident attorney do?

  Motorcycle accident attorneys provide legal advice, negotiate with insurance companies, and represent accident victims in and out of court. They investigate the cause of collisions, establish fault, value claims, prepare legal documents, and fight to recover adequate compensation for their clients. Most lawyers in this practice area also handle car and truck accidents and other personal injury claims.

• What is my motorcycle accident injury claim worth?

  Injured motorcyclists may be eligible for several types of compensation depending on their losses, state of residence, and level of fault. Whether or not they were wearing a helmet may also come into play. A lawyer can help to evaluate claims based on medical expenses, property damage, past and future lost wages, loss of earning capacity, pain and suffering, and emotional trauma.

• How long after a motorcycle accident can you claim an injury?

  The statute of limitations for personal injury claims is typically two years from the date of the accident. However, each state has its own rules. In Tennessee and Louisiana, for example, victims of motorcycle accidents have just one year to file a lawsuit. In Maine, Minnesota, and North Dakota, individuals have up to six years to initiate a claim.

• What is the average settlement for a motorcycle accident injury?

  Based on eight years of national data, the average verdict in motorcycle accident cases ranges from $74,000 to $560,000. Also note that the majority of claims are settled out of court. Riders may receive compensatory damages for medical bills, property damage, and lost wages, as well as general damages for emotional trauma, pain and suffering, and loss of consortium. Additionally, in states that follow a comparative negligence model, the plaintiff’s claim may be reduced according to his or her level of fault.

• What is the first thing I should do after a motorcycle accident?

  The steps that you take immediately after a collision can be instrumental in proving an accident or injury claim. In general, you should follow these guidelines:

  • Gather insurance and contact information from the other driver and any witnesses.
  • Contact law enforcement to report the collision and complete an accident report.
  • Document injuries, property damage, and road conditions.
  • Visit a doctor or hospital within 24 hours.
  • Avoid discussing the accident with the other driver or their insurance company.

  
  

• How does the motorcycle injury claim process work?

  Motorcycle accident cases typically start with an insurance claim. After documenting their client’s losses and establishing fault, attorneys generally prepare a demand letter requesting compensation from the other driver’s insurance company. It can take anywhere from one to six months for insurance adjusters to make a settlement offer. If the company denies the claim or the parties can’t reach an agreement, the lawyer can prepare a notice of intent to sue and file a formal lawsuit with the appropriate court.

• How do many motorcycle crashes happen?

  The most common causes for motorcycle collisions are drunk driving, exceeding the speed limit, and left turns. In 42% of all motorcycle collision fatalities, another vehicle turned left in front of an oncoming motorcycle. Motorcycle accidents are also caused by dangerous road conditions, such as crumbling pavement, debris in the road, and potholes. Other factors that contribute to motorcycle accidents include unsafe lane changes, sudden stops, lane splitting, inexperienced drivers, motorcycle defects, and car doors opened in the path of a motorcycle.

• How many motorcyclists get into accidents?

  In 2017, of the over 8 million motorcycle riders that year, approximately 89,000 were injured in motorcycle accidents and over 5,000 motorcycle collisions resulted in fatalities. The fatality rate for 100 million miles driven is 25.67, which is largely attributed to the lack of helmet use. Most fatal crashes involving motorcycles happened during the heaviest traffic times between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m.

• Are motorcycles more dangerous than cars?

  Motorcycles are more dangerous than cars because they lack any protection for the rider in the event of an accident. Motorcyclists are 27 times more likely to die in a crash and more than five times more likely to be injured than those riding in enclosed vehicles. Because of their small size, motorcycles’ lack of visibility is a major contributing factor in collisions with other vehicles. Motorcycles are also more vulnerable to weather conditions and road hazards than other automobiles.

• How do you check a motorcycle after a crash?

  For a minor crash with no injuries, the immediate danger is being struck again by oncoming traffic, so moving your bike off of the road as soon as possible is imperative. Check your mirrors, brake lights, headlight, and controls. You should also check to make sure there is no leaking fluid, such as fuel or oil.