Litchfield Park Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

Motorcycle accidents stand out significantly from other vehicular accidents due to the high risk of severe injury or fatality. In Arizona, 79% of motorcycle collisions result in severe injuries, ranging from broken bones to traumatic brain injuries.

What’s more, According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), motorcyclists are nearly 28 times more likely to die in a crash than occupants of passenger vehicles​. These statistics highlight the vulnerability of motorcyclists on the road and the critical need for specialized legal support after an accident.

At Torgenson Law, we understand the unique challenges faced by motorcyclists. Our team is dedicated to providing compassionate and effective legal representation. We thoroughly investigate every detail of your case, keeping you informed throughout the process so you’re never left in the dark. Our deep understanding of personal injury law, insurance issues, and medical care allows us to advocate strongly on your behalf.

We are committed to fighting for the best possible outcome for you, whether it’s negotiating a fair settlement or representing you in court. If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident, Torgenson Law is here to help break down the legal process surrounding your case.  Read through this guide so you’ll know the next steps you need to take to protect your rights and pursue fair compensation.

How Do I Know if I Have a Motorcycle Accident Case in Arizona?

Determining whether you have a motorcycle accident case in Arizona involves evaluating several critical factors, including the circumstances of the accident and adherence to state-specific laws. The following factors are all taken into consideration to determine what type of motorcycle accident claim you may be eligible to submit:

Establishing Liability

To have a motorcycle accident case, you must establish that another party was at fault. This typically involves proving negligence, which means showing that the other driver failed to exercise reasonable care on the road. Common examples include:

• Speeding
• Distracted driving
• Running a red light
• Driving under the influence

Evidence such as police reports, witness statements, and traffic camera footage can support your claim. An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer can help gather and analyze this evidence to build a strong case.

Understanding Arizona Motorcycle Laws

Being familiar with Arizona’s motorcycle laws can also influence your case:

• Helmet laws. Riders under 18 are required to wear helmets. While adults are not required to wear helmets, not wearing one can impact your case by potentially reducing the compensation you receive due to contributory negligence.
• Lane splitting. This practice is illegal in Arizona. If you were lane splitting at the time of the accident, this could affect your ability to claim damages.
• Insurance requirements. Arizona mandates motorcyclists carry liability insurance. Ensuring you have the required coverage is paramount to avoid complications in your case.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Understanding common causes of motorcycle accidents can also help determine the validity of your case. Here are some typical causes:

• Driving under the influence. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 1,436 motorcycle riders killed in 2020 were alcohol-impaired, making up 27% of total motorcycle rider fatalities. Arizona has fairly strict zero-tolerance laws when it comes to driving under the influence.
• Left-turn accidents. Many motorcycle accidents occur when other vehicles make left-hand turns in front of a motorcycle, often due to the driver not seeing the motorcycle.
• Speeding and reckless driving. Both motorcyclists and other drivers can contribute to accidents through excessive speed or reckless driving behaviors.
• Road hazards. Potholes, debris, uneven pavement, and other road hazards can be particularly dangerous for motorcyclists.

Understanding these factors and how they apply to your specific situation is fundamental to determining how to approach your case. If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident in Arizona, consulting with a knowledgeable Litchfield Park personal injury lawyer can provide clarity and direction. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney can evaluate the specifics of your case, help gather necessary evidence, and guide you through the legal process to protect your rights and pursue fair compensation.

What Makes Motorcycle Accident Claims So Complicated?

Motorcycle accident claims in Arizona are often more complex than other vehicle accident claims due to unique factors involving the determination of fault, the process of gathering evidence, and specific legal considerations.

Determining Fault

Determining fault in motorcycle accidents can be challenging, particularly in Arizona’s comparative negligence system. Here, fault can be distributed among multiple parties, and even if you are partially at fault, you can still recover damages — though your compensation will be reduced by your percentage of fault. This process can be complicated by the following factors:

• Police reports. While these provide an official account of the accident, they may not always be detailed enough or could be disputed by either party. For instance, a report might not accurately capture a motorcyclist’s perspective or the specific circumstances that led to the accident.
• Witness statements. Eyewitnesses can offer different perspectives, but their accounts might conflict, making it difficult to establish a clear narrative of the events. The reliability of witnesses can also vary, impacting the strength of their testimonies.
• Traffic camera footage. Visual evidence from traffic cameras can be pivotal in showing the sequence of events, but such footage is not always available. When it is available, the footage needs to be analyzed carefully to extract relevant details, which can be a meticulous and time-consuming process.
• Expert testimony. Accident reconstruction experts can provide professional insights into how the accident occurred, but their analyses are subject to interpretation and can be contested by opposing experts. The complexity of the accident scene, especially in multi-vehicle collisions, can make these reconstructions even more complicated.

How Do Motorcycle Claims Compare to Other Vehicle Claims?

Motorcycle claims involve different processes and considerations compared to other vehicle claims due to the distinct nature of motorcycles and the severity of injuries sustained in such accidents:

• Severity of injuries. Motorcyclists are more exposed and, therefore, more likely to sustain severe injuries. This not only increases medical expenses but also complicates the documentation and proof of long-term impacts, such as disability or chronic pain.
• Bias against motorcyclists. There is often a societal bias that views motorcyclists as more reckless, which can influence the opinions of insurance adjusters, juries, and even judges. Overcoming this bias requires a strong, well-documented case that clearly demonstrates the motorcyclist’s caution and the other party’s negligence.
• Higher stakes. Because motorcycle accidents tend to result in more significant injuries, the stakes are higher. This means that insurance companies are more likely to aggressively contest claims to avoid large payouts. They might scrutinize medical records, question the necessity of treatments, or argue that pre-existing conditions are to blame for the injuries.

Statute of Limitations

In Arizona, the statute of limitations for filing a motorcycle accident claim is generally two years from the date of the accident. This timeframe is critical, but there are exceptions:

• Minors. If the injured party is under 18, the statute of limitations may extend until two years after their 18th birthday.
• Discovery rule. If the injury or damage is discovered later, the statute of limitations may start from the discovery date.

At Torgenson Law, our seasoned attorneys are committed to helping you navigate the complex legal process. From establishing fault to meeting critical deadlines, trust us to handle the details while you focus on your recovery.

Who Should Contact a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer After Getting Into an Accident in Litchfield Park?

Navigating the aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be overwhelming. Knowing when and who should seek legal help is crucial to protecting your rights and receiving the compensation you deserve.

If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, it is essential to seek legal help as soon as possible. Immediate consultation with a motorcycle accident lawyer can help preserve critical evidence, secure witness statements, and provide guidance on how to interact with insurance companies. Prompt legal advice can also keep you on track to meet all necessary deadlines, such as filing claims and lawsuits within the statute of limitations.

If you fall under any of the listed categories below, you should consider seeking a Litchfield Park motorcycle accident lawyer and you:

• Have serious injuries. If your injuries from the accident are serious and require extensive medical treatment or result in long-term disability, you should seek legal assistance. An attorney can help you navigate the complexities of your case and fight for the compensation you deserve.
• Are facing high medical costs. Medical bills can quickly accumulate after a motorcycle accident. If you are facing significant medical expenses and are unsure how to cover these costs, consulting a lawyer can provide clarity on your options for financial recovery.
• Are involved in a disputed accident. When there is a dispute about who caused the accident, having a lawyer is crucial. They can gather evidence, consult with experts, and build a strong case to prove the other party’s liability.
• Are unsure of your legal rights. If you are unsure of your rights or the value of your claim, a motorcycle accident lawyer can provide the necessary guidance. They can explain your legal options and help you understand the potential outcomes of your case.
• Are dealing with insurance companies. If you are struggling to negotiate with insurance companies or if your claim has been denied, a lawyer can step in to handle communications and negotiations, fighting for a fair settlement that covers the extent of your injuries.

By seeking legal help promptly, you can protect your rights and improve your chances of receiving the compensation you need to recover and move forward. Contacting a motorcycle accident lawyer in Litchfield Park can provide the support and expertise necessary to navigate the complexities of your case.

What Can You Be Compensated for After a Motorcycle Crash?

Motorcycle accidents can have profound impacts on your life, leading to a wide range of damages. Understanding what you can be compensated for is crucial so that you receive the support you need for recovery.

Lost Wages

If your injuries prevent you from working, you can be compensated for the income lost during your recovery period. This includes both past and future lost wages, especially if your ability to work in the future is affected.

Medical Expenses

The most immediate and often significant cost following a motorcycle crash is medical expenses. This includes emergency care, surgeries, hospital stays, doctor visits, physical therapy, medications, and any other medical treatments required for your recovery.

Common injuries include:

• Broken bones
• Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
• Spinal cord injuries
• Road rash
• Internal injuries
• Ligament damage
• Dislocations
• Soft tissue injuries
• Burns
• Facial fractures and dental injuries

Pain and Suffering

Compensation for pain and suffering addresses the physical pain and emotional distress resulting from the accident. This includes chronic pain, discomfort, and the psychological impact of your injuries.

Beyond physical pain, emotional distress compensation covers the broader psychological effects, such as trauma, anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). These damages acknowledge the profound impact that a serious accident can have on your mental health and quality of life.

Future Medical Expenses

Some injuries require long-term or even lifelong medical care. Future medical expenses can include ongoing treatments, surgeries, rehabilitation, and any necessary assistive devices like wheelchairs or prosthetics. Covering these costs is a necessary part of the recovery for your long-term well-being.

By pursuing these forms of compensation, you can address both the immediate and long-term consequences of a motorcycle accident. At Torgenson Law, we understand the challenges you face and are here to help you secure the comprehensive compensation you need to support your recovery journey. Our dedicated team is committed to advocating for your rights so that you receive the financial support necessary to rebuild your life after an accident.

How Can the Motorcycle Accident Lawyers at Torgenson Law Help?

If you’ve been in a motorcycle accident in Litchfield Park, contacting Torgenson Law is crucial. With over two decades of experience, our team specializes in personal injury cases, providing expert guidance to achieve the best outcomes. We conduct thorough investigations, keeping you informed throughout the process. Our commitment includes fighting for your rights and offering bilingual services in English and Spanish.

Why Choose Torgenson Law?

• 20+ years of experience. Our extensive experience in personal injury law equips us with the knowledge to handle complex cases effectively.
• Specialization in personal injury cases. We focus solely on Arizona personal injury, giving us deep insight into the laws and practices necessary for successful outcomes.
• Thorough investigative process. We leave no stone unturned, uncovering all details to build a strong case. We will meticulously examine every aspect of your case, gathering crucial evidence and expert testimonies to build a compelling argument for your claim.
• Bilingual services in English and Spanish. Our bilingual staff allows us to communicate effectively with a diverse range of clients.
• Dedicated to fighting for your rights. We are committed to advocating for you and ensuring you receive the compensation you deserve.

Injured in a motorcycle accident and not sure what to do next? Contact us online today for a free consultation, or call us at 602-726-0747.