Legal Help After a Motorcycle Accident in Philadelphia
Motorcycles are a common sight on Philadelphia roads. Many riders use them to commute, enjoy the open road, or travel through the city more easily. While riding can be convenient and enjoyable, motorcyclists face serious risks when other drivers fail to share the road responsibly.
Because riders have far less protection than people inside cars or trucks, even a relatively small crash can lead to severe injuries. If you were hurt in a motorcycle accident caused by someone else’s careless actions, you may have the right to pursue compensation.
The team at Injury Pros helps injured riders in Philadelphia learn about their legal options and take the next steps after a crash.
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Why Motorcycle Accidents Are So Dangerous
Motorcycle accidents often lead to more serious injuries than many other types of vehicle crashes. One of the main reasons is the lack of physical protection.
Unlike drivers in passenger vehicles, motorcyclists are not surrounded by a metal frame, airbags, or other safety features. Even when riders wear helmets and protective gear, they can still suffer significant injuries in a collision.
Other factors that increase the danger include:
- Drivers failing to notice motorcycles in traffic
- Heavy traffic and congestion in city streets
- Higher risk of being thrown from the motorcycle during a crash
- Less stability compared to four-wheeled vehicles
Because of these risks, motorcycle crashes often result in injuries that require extensive medical care and long recovery periods.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Philadelphia
When drivers fail to pay attention or follow traffic laws, motorcyclists are often the ones who suffer the consequences.
Some of the most common causes of motorcycle crashes include:
- Distracted driving, such as texting or using a phone
- Drivers making unsafe lane changes
- Failure to yield the right of way
- Speeding or aggressive driving
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Drivers failing to check blind spots for motorcycles
In some cases, road hazards such as potholes, debris, or poorly maintained streets may also contribute to a crash.
Injuries Riders Often Suffer in Motorcycle Crashes
Because of the impact and exposure involved in motorcycle accidents, riders frequently suffer serious injuries.
Some of the injuries commonly seen after motorcycle crashes include:
- Traumatic brain injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Internal bleeding
- Broken bones and fractures
- Damage to organs or nerves
- Road rash and severe skin injuries
These injuries can lead to long-term health problems, expensive medical treatment, and time away from work.
What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Philadelphia
The steps you take after a motorcycle accident can affect both your health and your ability to protect your legal rights. If you are involved in a crash, there are a few important things you should try to do if it is safe.
Seek medical attention as soon as possible
Your health should always come first after a motorcycle accident. Even if you think your injuries are minor, it is still a good idea to get checked by a medical professional because some injuries may not show symptoms right away.
Call the police
Contacting the police helps make sure there is an official record of the accident. The police report may include:
- Details about the crash
- The people involved
- Statements from witnesses
Take photos of the scene
If you are able to, take pictures of the accident scene, the vehicles involved, and any visible injuries. Photos can help show what happened and provide useful evidence if questions come up later.
Collect contact information from witnesses
If anyone saw the accident happen, try to get their names and contact information. Witnesses may be able to describe what they saw, which can sometimes help clarify how the crash occurred.
Avoid discussing fault at the scene
After an accident, it is best not to argue or discuss who caused the crash. The situation can be stressful, and statements made in the moment could be misunderstood later.
Consider speaking with a lawyer
Before talking with insurance companies, you may want to speak with a motorcycle accident lawyer who handles motorcycle accident cases. They can explain your options and help you decide what steps to take next.
Even if you feel okay after the crash, getting medical care and documenting the accident can make a big difference later. Taking these steps can help protect both your health and your rights.
Determining Liability in a Motorcycle Accident Case
Determining who is responsible for a motorcycle accident is an important part of any injury claim.
Depending on the circumstances, several parties may potentially be held responsible for a crash, including:
- A negligent driver who caused the collision
- A commercial vehicle operator or trucking company
- A government agency responsible for maintaining the road
- A manufacturer if a defective motorcycle part contributed to the accident
An investigation may include reviewing police reports, gathering witness statements, examining vehicle damage, and analyzing other available evidence.
Compensation Available After a Motorcycle Accident
If someone else’s actions caused the accident, you may be able to seek compensation for the losses related to your injuries. These damages are usually divided into economic damages and non-economic damages.
Economic damages
Economic damages are the financial losses connected to the accident. These are usually easier to calculate because they involve bills, receipts, or other records.
They may include:
- Medical bills and hospital expenses for treatment after the accident
- Ongoing medical care or rehabilitation, such as physical therapy or follow-up treatment
- Lost income if you had to miss work while recovering
- Reduced earning ability if your injuries make it harder to return to your job or earn the same income in the future
- Property damage, including the cost to repair or replace your motorcycle
Non-economic damages
Non-economic damages are meant to cover the personal impact the accident has had on your life. These losses do not always have a clear dollar value, but they can still be very significant.
They may include:
- Pain and suffering caused by the physical injuries from the crash
- Emotional distress related to the accident and recovery
- Loss of enjoyment of life if your injuries prevent you from doing activities you once enjoyed
The exact compensation available in a motorcycle accident case depends on the details of the crash and the severity of the injuries involved. Each case is different, which is why many people choose to review their situation with a lawyer to learn what options may be available.
How a Philadelphia Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Help
Handling a motorcycle accident claim can be difficult, especially while dealing with injuries and recovery. Insurance companies may try to limit payouts or shift blame onto the rider.
A motorcycle accident lawyer can help by:
- Investigating how the accident happened
- Collecting evidence to support your claim
- Communicating with insurance companies
- Working with medical or accident reconstruction experts
- Negotiating for a fair settlement
- Representing you in court if necessary
Having legal guidance can make it easier to focus on recovery while your case is being handled.
Time Limits for Filing a Motorcycle Accident Claim in Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania law places a time limit on filing personal injury claims. In most cases, injured individuals have two years from the date of the accident to file a lawsuit.
Missing this deadline can prevent you from pursuing compensation. Because of this, it is often helpful to speak with a lawyer as soon as possible after a crash.
Speak With a Philadelphia Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
A motorcycle accident can affect many parts of your life, from your health to your finances. If someone else’s actions caused the crash, you should not have to handle the aftermath alone.
The team at Injury Pros helps injured riders in Philadelphia learn about their legal options and what steps they may be able to take after an accident.
Contact us today for a free consultation to discuss your situation and find out how we may be able to help.
