Best Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Tempe

FAQs

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

  You can call (480) 350-8311 for non-emergency situations in Tempe.

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

  You can request a copy of the police report through the Records Section of the Tempe Police Department. You can also contact the Arizona Department of Public Safety at 602-223–2000.

• What are the things you should know before hiring a motorcycle accident lawyer in Tempe?

  Years of experience, knowledge of personal injury law, and previous motorcycle accident cases won are some of the factors to consider when looking for a motorcycle attorney in Tempe. These can affect the lawyer's efficiency and effectiveness in negotiations and litigation. Lawyers can focus on techniques that yield results when they understand what has and has not worked in the past. Attorneys can protect your rights and help you obtain maximum compensation for your injuries or losses.

• What types of motorcycle injuries occur most often in Tempe?

  Damage to the lower extremities is the most common injury from motorcycle accidents. Injuries to the chest and head are also prevalent. Because of their position on the motorcycle, the legs and pelvis may withstand more of the impact of a collision when riding a motorcycle. A severe lower-extremity injury may potentially prevent a person from walking, either temporarily or permanently. Broken bones, road rash, lacerations, and amputations are also common. In severe situations, internal bleeding, facial disfigurement, organ damage, and death might occur.

• What time of day do most motorcycle accidents happen in Tempe?

  According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 52% of fatal motorcycle accidents happen on weekend nights, with the biggest proportion happening between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m. Fatal motorcycle accidents are more likely to occur during peak traffic periods like weekday afternoons. Weekend evenings, when motorcyclists may be socializing and possibly consuming alcohol, are also among the most popular times to ride a motorcycle during the week.

• How do you prevent motorcycle accidents in Tempe?

  To ride safely and battle the dangers of riding a motorcycle, prepare yourself for the trip by wearing personal protective gear and helmets, obeying local traffic rules, and riding responsibly. Check the weather forecast before going on a motorcycle ride. If a storm is expected, stay at home or drive a traditional motor vehicle alternatively.

• What can increase the risk of a motorcycle accident in Tempe?

  Speeding, alcohol and drug use, unsafe lane changes, motorcycle defects, and failure to obey traffic laws are common factors that can increase the risk of a motorcycle accident in Tempe. When a motorcycle is in the vicinity of a distracted motorist, the risk to the rider increases significantly. Lane splitting can also cause accidents because it puts the motorcyclist close to other cars, and other drivers cannot see them because they do not anticipate or see the motorcycle coming.

• 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.