Best Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Tucson

FAQs

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

  520-791-4444 is the non-emergency contact number for the Tucson Police Department.

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

  The Tucson Police Department's Records Section can provide you with a copy of the accident report. You may download the request form from their website and email it to tpdpublicrecords@tucsonaz.gov. You may also speak to a representative by calling 520-791-4462.

• How long do you have to file a personal injury claim after a motorcycle accident in Tucson?

  In Tucson, you have two years from the date of your motorcycle accident to file a claim for compensation under Arizona law. This is because injuries that may seem minor at first can turn out to be serious later on, requiring costly medical treatment.

• What are the most common causes of motorcycle crashes in Tucson?

  Road conditions play a major role in the frequency of motorcycle crashes in Tucson. The area has many potholes, which often result in single-vehicle collisions. Another common cause is the road design, wherein the lanes are narrow and have many consecutive stoplights. Additionally, Tucson has no freeways, and Interstate 10 is the only major road. Traffic is normally heavy, and motorcyclists travel between lanes due to backed-up roads. This situation can lead to motorcycle accidents.

• In Tucson, can you seek compensation if you were not wearing a helmet at the time of the motorcycle accident?

  Yes, Arizona law does not require motorcycle operators aged 18 and above to wear a helmet. If you get involved in an accident and you are not wearing a helmet, you can still secure compensation against the negligent party. However, the amount of compensation may be reduced if the defendant proves that you are partially liable for your head injuries.

• In 2021, how many motorcycle crashes occurred in Tucson?

  In Pima County, where Tucson is located, 336 motorcycle crashes were recorded in 2021, according to the DOT. Out of the 336 occurrences, 17 people died and 289 were injured. Throughout Arizona, 2,594 motorcycle crashes occurred. This number accounted for 2.14% of the state's total motor vehicle crashes in 2021. Additionally, 160 fatalities were recorded due to motorcycle accidents.

• How does Arizona law assign liability if there are multiple parties involved in a motorcycle accident in Tucson?

  Tucson uses a fault-based system for motorcycle accidents, which means that the person who caused the accident is responsible for paying the damages. If multiple parties are involved in the accident, the damages are divided based on each person's percentage of fault. For example, if the at-fault party is found to be 80% responsible for the accident, they will pay 80% of the damages. If there is another driver involved and the court determines that they are 10% liable, they will pay 10% of the damages.

• 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.