Best Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Springfield, IL

FAQs

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

  The non-emergency contact number of the Springfield local police station is 217.788.8311 for voice. And 217.789.2186 for TDD only.

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

  You may obtain a copy of the police report online by visiting Crashdocs, a third party, and you will be charged $5.00. You can also call the Springfield Police Records Department at 217-788-8337, and the staff will provide the report number. Those who would like to receive a hard copy of the report will be instructed to send a check payable to SPD for $5.00 with a return envelope. Payments can be mailed to Springfield Police Department, 800 E. Monroe, Springfield, IL 62701.

• Are there any special traffic laws and rules in Illinois for motorcycles?

  In Illinois, there are specific rules and laws regarding riding motorcycles. These restrictions apply to cities, including Springfield, where helmets are not required. Riders must wear eyeglasses unless the bike has a widescreen. Mufflers are required, while cuts, bypass, and other similar devices are not allowed. There is no age restriction for passengers. Motorcycle riders wearing headphones while riding is illegal unless the device only covers one ear. Using daytime headlights are required by law, and handgrip above the head height of the driver is prohibited.

• What is the Illinois statute of limitations?

  Illinois has a two-year statute of limitations. Motorcycle accident claims in Springfield must be submitted within two years after the occurrence date. Otherwise, the claims will be eternally prohibited. The statute of limitations for property damage is five years from the accident. However, it is lowered to one year if the opposite party is a local governmental agency or its employees.

• Can a Springfield motorcycle accident victim recover even if they were somewhat at fault?

  Yes, since Illinois is a modified comparative fault state, a victim of a motorcycle accident in Springfield may receive a recovery. However, it will be reduced to the percentage of their liability. And if the victim bears more than half of the blame, they will not be eligible for compensation.

• How much does a motorcycle accident claim in Springfield cost?

  Every case is unique since each person's injuries, underlying medical problems, and recovery processes are distinct. The amount of claims that a Springfield motorcycle victim can seek is determined by the facts of each case. The types of damages that can be obtained for motorcycle accident victims include compensation for lost wages and earning capacity in the future, medical costs and rehabilitation services, long-term care including the facilities for health recovery, and for intangible losses such as emotional trauma, loss of enjoyment of life, and disfigurement.

• Is it necessary for a Springfield motorcycle accident victim to appear in court?

  Yes, if a motorcycle accident victim in Springfield seeks compensation for injuries and other losses, they may have to go to court. According to the American Bar Association, most damage claims are settled without trial. This will be determined by the ability to reach an agreement with the insurance provider that addresses the numerous losses victims face. If the offer is not fair, or the time for filing a case is nearing, they may need to go to court.

• 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.