Best Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Philadelphia

FAQs

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

  For non-emergency, you may call 311, or you may dial +1 215-686-1776 to call the Philadelphia Police Department Headquarters.

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

  You may get a copy of traffic accident reports online by filling out the crash reports application form, which can be found on the official website of Philadelphia’s Department of Records: https://www.phila.gov/documents/public-safety-report-request-forms/.

• Can you sue the local government of Philadelphia, PA for a motorcycle accident caused by hitting a roadway defect?

  While governmental entities may be immune from liability, it is stated in Pennsylvania’s Sovereign Immunity Act that injured motorcycle riders may file claims against the government in specific situations. If your motorcycle accident involves the negligence of a government agency or one of its employees, you may file a claim for recovery against the party at fault.

• Can you get an extension for filing motorcycle accident claims in Philadelphia, PA?

  Philadelphia’s statute of limitations for filing a motorcycle accident claim against the at-fault party is two years. An extension to this deadline is rarely given, so make sure to have your case evaluated by a lawyer immediately. If you fail to file your claim within the deadline, you may lose your right to a trial and compensation.

• Can you file a lawsuit if you lose a loved one in a motorcycle accident in Philadelphia, PA?

  Yes, you may file a lawsuit if you lose a spouse, parent, or child in a motorcycle accident in Philadelphia that was caused by someone else’s negligence or careless actions. The state of Pennsylvania recognizes the rights of certain surviving family members to file a wrongful death claim and pursue compensation following the death of a relative in a motorcycle accident because of another erring party.

• Who should you sue for a motorcycle accident in Philadelphia, PA caused by a manufacturing defect?

  If a defect in a motorcycle contributes to an accident, the manufacturer and others involved in the chain of its distribution can be held liable for the resulting injuries and deaths. The most common defects that cause motorbike accidents include faulty brakes, stability issues, and defective tires. If a motorcycle manufacturer is found by the court engaging in unsafe manufacturing processes, failing to execute quality control, or producing faulty parts or vehicles, the company may be liable for damages.

• What does comparative negligence mean in motorcycle accidents in Philadelphia, PA?

  The state of Pennsylvania has a law called “comparative negligence” under 42 Pa. C.S. § 7102, which can reduce or completely eliminate the victim’s or claimant’s recovery from a motorcycle accident. The state uses the so-called “51%” rule, which means as long as the victim is less than 51% to blame for the motorcycle crash, they can recover damages. Otherwise, they cannot collect a settlement or court award.

• 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.