Best Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Chicago

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number for the Chicago police station is 3-1-1.

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

  You can get a copy of the accident police report by visiting the Chicago Police Department Records Customer Service Section, located at 3510 South Michigan Ave. You may also call 312-745-5130 during normal business hours (8 a.m. to 3 p.m.).

• Can you still file motorcycle accident claims in Chicago even if you are partially at fault?

  Yes, individuals who are partially at fault in a Chicago motorcycle accident may still file claims. According to Illinois' comparative fault state law, anyone who is less than 50% responsible for an accident can pursue compensation for physical injuries and property damage. If a plaintiff is 50% or more at fault for the accident, he or she will not be able to obtain compensation.

• In the event of a motorcycle accident in Chicago, what is the average payout?

  The average payout for a motorcycle accident settlement in Chicago depends on some factors from your case. The average payout for a motorcycle case is about $40,000. Small personal injury cases range from $2,500 to $10,000, while large settlements can range in millions. Plaintiffs can expect higher payouts if they sustained severe injuries.

• What are the most common injuries sustained in motorcycle accidents in Chicago?

  The most common injuries sustained by motorcyclists in Chicago are head and neck injuries, since Illinois does not require the use of helmets. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and CDC study, of more than a million riders, 22% of them have sustained head and neck injuries. Other injuries include broken and fractured limbs, internal organ damage, and paralysis.

• Do you have to file a lawsuit after a motorcycle accident in Chicago?

  Chicago follows Illinois' statute of limitations, which means individuals are given two years to file for a personal injury lawsuit from the date of the accident. If you are involved in a motorcycle accident with a vehicle operated by a government employee, you must comply with the CTA's 6-month notice provision and a one-year statute of limitations.

• If you suffered injuries as a passenger, who can be held responsible for a motorcycle accident in Chicago?

  You can recover compensation from multiple defendants if you have sustained injuries in a motorcycle accident in Chicago. Parties who are liable for your injuries are the ones who caused the accident, they can be the driver of the motorcycle or another vehicle driver. If the motorcycle driver is your friend, and you are reluctant to file claims against them, remember that it is not them who will pay for your damages but their insurance company.

• 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.