Best Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Lakewood

FAQs

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

  The Lakewood Police Department has its 24-hour non-emergency dispatch at 303-980-7300.

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

  The Lakewood Police Records Division is reachable by mail at 445 S. Allison Pkwy Lakewood CO, 80226, ATTN Records, and through fax at (303) 987-7359.

• Will your motorcycle accident claim in Lakewood be endangered if you weren't wearing a helmet during the incident?

  Not completely, and the state law operating in Lakewood does not require motorcycle riders to wear helmets after reaching the age of 18. Take note however that comparative negligence rules apply, and a biker who sustained head injuries will likely receive less if a helmet was absent. The jury might also deem that the plaintiff's helmetless riding makes the latter more at fault than the defendant, and this would prevent recovery.

• What are the other causes of motorcycle crashes in Lakewood besides driver negligence?

  Besides driver negligence, motorcycle accidents happen in Lakewood when roadways are defective because the government agency responsible for public safety failed to keep these highways maintained and pothole-free. The motorcycle parts might also be faulty and the manufacturers might be liable for putting broken goods on the market that cause a loss of control.

• What should a motorcycle accident victim do immediately after a crash in Lakewood?

  A motorcycle accident victim who crashes in Lakewood must immediately call the police because this will begin the authorities' formal investigation process and generate evidence. Gather as much information as possible like the other driver's contact information and eyewitness accounts. Document the scene with photos and cover the scene and the vehicles involved. Seek medical assistance and file an insurance claim but do not speak to insurers directly. Get a lawyer before negotiations.

• What value does a motorcycle accident lawyer in Lakewood add to a personal injury claim?

  A motorcycle accident lawyer in Lakewood is skilled in evaluating and presenting evidence in a manner convincing to the court. An attorney has ties with expert witnesses like economic and medical practitioners who will justify the monetary extent of damages sought. A legal professional is also skilled in scrutinizing insurance contracts to plug loopholes.

• How long does a motorcycle accident claimant in Lakewood have to bring a case to the courts?

  A motorcycle accident claimant in Lakewood has three years from the date of an incident to go to court under applicable state laws. If the victim died at a later date, the bereaved family and heirs must lodge a wrongful death suit within two years of the date of death. If the defendant is employed by the government, the agency involved must be given a notice of claim no later than 182 days after the incident.

• 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.