Gilbert Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Motorcycle accidents in Gilbert can lead to serious injuries. These injuries often include damage to the head and brain, fractures, and road rash.
Head and Brain Injuries
Head injuries are common in motorcycle accidents. Riders may suffer concussions or even traumatic brain injuries (TBIs).
Helmets can reduce the risk but cannot always prevent damage. You might experience symptoms like headaches, dizziness, or memory loss.
In severe cases, TBIs can cause long-term disabilities.
It’s vital to seek medical attention immediately to assess the extent of the injury and begin treatment early.
Fractures and Broken Bones
Fractures and broken bones often occur when you are thrown from the motorcycle. Commonly affected areas include the arms, legs, and ribs.
These injuries can range from simple fractures to complex breaks requiring surgery.
Immobilization with casts or braces is often necessary. Physical therapy may be needed to regain strength and mobility.
Recovery can be slow and painful, impacting your daily life and work.
Regardless of where your injury occurred, the Law Gang can help including the counties of:
- Maricopa
- Mojave
Road Rash and Skin Abrasions
Road rash happens when skin scrapes against the pavement. This can result in painful abrasions needing medical attention.
Severe road rash can lead to infections and require skin grafts. Wearing protective gear like leather jackets and gloves can minimize damage.
Proper cleaning and dressing of the wounds are essential to prevent complications.
Healing time can vary based on the severity of the abrasions.
Why Contact an Injury Attorney
If you’ve been injured in a car accident, you deserve to be compensated. That’s the purpose of insurance.
However, getting the compensation you deserve can be challenging without assistance.
This is exactly why you need good legal representation that works for you. We can assist in all types of claims including:
Confronting insurance companies and their legal teams is a challenging process, highlighting the necessity of reaching out to the ‘Law Gang’ for assistance.
We’ll manage negotiation and insurance dealings on your behalf.
Contact us if you are in need of a Gilbert personal injury lawyer.
Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents in Gilbert, Arizona often happen due to driver error, poor road conditions, and mechanical failures. Each of these factors can lead to serious injuries or even death.
Driver Error
Driver error is one of the main reasons for motorcycle accidents. Many drivers fail to see motorcyclists while changing lanes or turning.
This can result in collisions. Speeding is another big problem.
When drivers go too fast, they have less time to react. Drunk driving is also a major cause. Alcohol impairs judgment and slows reaction times.
On top of that, inexperienced riders may not handle their bikes well, leading to crashes.
Poor Road Conditions
Road conditions can greatly impact motorcycle safety. Potholes, cracks, and uneven surfaces can cause a motorcyclist to lose control.
Construction areas with loose gravel or uneven pavement are especially dangerous.
Wet or icy roads can make it hard to stop or steer a motorcycle. Poorly marked road signs or lights can also confuse riders, leading to accidents.
In Gilbert, rapid growth has led to many road construction projects. Be extra cautious in these areas.
Mechanical Failures
Mechanical problems can also cause accidents. Brake failures, tire blowouts, and engine issues are common problems.
Regular maintenance is key to preventing these issues. Checking tire pressure, brake pads, and fluid levels can help avoid accidents.
Sometimes, manufacturing defects also occur. In this case, the rider may not be at fault.
Always get your bike inspected by a professional to ensure everything is in working order.
The Law Gang assists all cities in Arizona including:
- Chandler
- Prescott
- Kingman
Why Hire a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
A motorcycle accident lawyer can help you navigate legal challenges and manage payment structures like contingency fees.
Contingency Payments
When you hire a motorcycle accident lawyer, you usually don’t pay upfront fees. Instead, lawyers often work on a contingency basis. This means the lawyer gets paid only if you win your case.
The payment is a percentage of the settlement or judgment you receive.
This arrangement can make legal services more accessible, as you don’t have to worry about paying out of pocket during a stressful time.
Contingency payments align the lawyer’s interests with your own. Since the lawyer gets paid based on the outcome, they will be motivated to secure the best possible result for you.
This also means you can focus on recovering without the added burden of legal costs.
Contingency fees vary, but they typically range from 25% to 40% of the compensation you receive.
It’s important to discuss and understand the fee structure before hiring a lawyer. Make sure to get all agreements in writing.
Crashes involving motorcycles are an everyday occurrence. Sometimes happening on busy roads like the Agua Fria Freeway or Pima Freeway but usually happening on side roads like:
Navigating Legal Complexities
Motorcycle accident cases can involve complex laws and multiple parties. A lawyer can handle the legal details, such as filing paperwork correctly and meeting deadlines.
They will know how to gather and present evidence effectively, including traffic camera footage, police reports, and witness statements.
Legal processes can be overwhelming, especially when you’re dealing with injuries. A lawyer will manage communications with insurance companies and ensure that your rights are protected.
They can also help you understand the statute of limitations for filing a lawsuit in Arizona, which is typically two years from the date of the accident.
Your lawyer will negotiate with the insurance companies to get you the compensation you deserve.
This can cover medical bills, lost wages, and other damages. They will fight on your behalf, aiming to reach a fair settlement or take the case to court if necessary.
Compensation for Damages
When you’re in a motorcycle accident, you may face financial losses and personal suffering. These are classified into economic and non-economic damages.
Economic Damages
Economic damages cover the tangible losses you face. This includes medical bills, which can pile up quickly after an accident.
You might need emergency care, surgery, physical therapy, or long-term treatment. Each of these can be very costly.
Additionally, lost wages can be a significant part of economic damages. If you miss work due to your injuries, you can claim the money you would have earned.
If your injuries prevent you from returning to work, you may also claim loss of future earnings.
Property damage is another aspect. If your motorcycle is damaged, you can seek repair or replacement costs. Any other personal belongings damaged in the accident can also be included.
Non-Economic Damages
Non-economic damages are for intangible losses. One major aspect is pain and suffering. This compensates for the physical pain and mental anguish you experience after the accident.
Emotional distress is another common non-economic damage. Accidents can lead to feelings of anxiety, depression, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD).
This compensation aims to address those emotional impacts.
Loss of enjoyment of life is when injuries prevent you from enjoying activities you once loved. This might include hobbies, sports, or other interests.
Finally, loss of consortium is compensation for the impact on your relationship with your spouse due to accident injuries. This can cover loss of companionship or support.
Dangerous Roads in Gilbert
Some roads in Gilbert, Arizona, are riskier for motorcyclists due to high traffic, poor road conditions, and frequent accidents.
Knowing these areas and taking precautions can help keep you safe.
Identifying High-Risk Areas
Several roads in Gilbert are known for higher accident rates involving motorcyclists. Elliot Road is one of these, often busy and having several intersections that can be confusing and dangerous.
Another trouble spot is Baseline Road, which sees a lot of commercial traffic that might make it hard for motorcycles to maneuver.
Gilbert Road is also hazardous, especially near downtown, due to heavy traffic and numerous stoplights.
Pay extra attention when riding on these roads. Watch for sudden stops and turns by other vehicles.
Stay visible and use your signals early to let other drivers know your intentions.
Preventive Measures for Riders
To stay safe on these high-risk roads, wear appropriate gear like helmets, gloves, and jackets.
Riding a well-maintained motorcycle is also crucial. Check your brakes, lights, and tires regularly.
Practice safe riding habits, such as maintaining a safe distance from other vehicles and avoiding sudden lane changes.
Use both your mirrors and head checks to stay aware of your surroundings.
Avoid riding during peak hours if possible. If you must ride, stay alert and be prepared for sudden changes in traffic conditions.
Taking a motorcycle safety course can also help you learn how to handle risky situations.
Insurance Processes
After a motorcycle accident, dealing with insurance can be stressful.
First, you should report the accident to your insurance company. Provide all relevant details, including the location, time, and a description of what happened.
Gather any evidence you have, like photos, witness statements, and police reports. This information supports your claim.
Important Steps:
- Notify your insurer quickly.
- Collect and submit evidence.
- Communicate with the other driver’s insurer if needed.
Documents to Have:
- Police Report
- Medical Bills
- Repair Estimates
An adjuster will review your claim. They might ask more questions or request additional documents. Be ready to provide whatever they need.
You may receive a settlement offer from the insurance company. Review it carefully. Estimates for repairs and medical costs should be accurate.
If the offer seems low, you can negotiate. Provide proof of all expenses and the impact on your life.
It’s possible the insurance company won’t agree with you. If that happens, having a lawyer can help. They can guide you on the best steps to take.
Remember, your goal is to get fair compensation for damages. Being organized and prepared will help you get the best outcome.
If you live in Gilbert, AZ and are tired of looking “for a Gilbert Motorcycle lawyer near me” then contact The Law Gang today.
Statute of Limitations
In Arizona, you have a specific time limit to file a lawsuit after a motorcycle accident. This is called the statute of limitations.
For personal injury claims, you generally have two years from the date of the accident to file.
If you miss this deadline, you might not be able to pursue legal action.
There are different rules if the accident caused a loved one’s death. For wrongful death claims, you have two years from the date of death to file.
It’s important to act quickly to protect your rights.
Sometimes, special circumstances might extend or shorten these time limits. Talking to a lawyer can help you understand your specific timeline.
Keeping track of these deadlines is crucial. They can affect your ability to get compensation for injuries, medical bills, and other damages.
Always consider speaking with a qualified attorney to make sure you file your claim on time.
Knowing the statute of limitations helps ensure you don’t lose your right to seek justice and compensation.
