PHILADELPHIA Motorcycle Accident ATTORNEY

Our Philadelphia Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Protect Injured Victims in Pennsylvania and New Jersey

Motorcycle accidents can have devastating results. While riders often choose motorcycles over passenger vehicles because of the thrill and feeling of freedom, motorcycles’ small size and lack of protection can make it difficult for other drivers to see them and dangerous for the unprotected rider. Unfortunately, too many drivers still struggle to safely share the road with motorcyclists. Motorcycle accidents can happen when you least expect them, but after an accident does occur, it’s important to know what steps you can take to pursue compensation for damages. 

At the Quinn Law Group, our Philadelphia motorcycle accident lawyer is an experienced, aggressive advocate for injured victims and their families. We have what it takes to hold negligent drivers, truck companies, motorcycle manufacturers, insurance companies, and other parties accountable. You need full and fair financial compensation to pay your bills and support your family. To set up a free, no-obligation consultation with a top motorcycle accident attorney, please do not hesitate to contact our Philadelphia law office today.  

What You Need To Know About Motorcycle Accidents

Pennsylvania has several laws that are meant to protect riders and drivers as they share the roadway to prevent motorcycle accidents. First and foremost, already-existing legislation establishes that anyone riding a motorcycle must always wear protective headgear when the vehicle is in motion and requires that every bike be equipped with either one or two rearview mirrors, which affords maximum vision to the rider. 

Furthermore, there are laws in place that mandate every motorcycle owner to fit their motorcycle with safety glass shields on both sides. If you were involved in a motorcycle crash and were not following these laws, it may be difficult to receive the entirety of the compensation you would have been awarded. 

These laws also provide a good starting point for learning about motorcycle accidents and what legal rights you have if you have been injured in one. 

Steps to Take After an Accident in or Near Philadelphia

Were you involved in a serious motorcycle crash in or near Philadelphia? You are not alone. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that more than 80,000 motorcycle riders are injured in motorcycle accidents nationwide each year. It is crucial that you know exactly what to do next to protect your health, your safety, and your ability to recover financial compensation after a motorcycle crash. Too many motorcycle riders make mistakes in the immediate aftermath of a collision. Here are six important steps to take after a motorcycle crash in Southeastern Pennsylvania: 

1. Stop Your Motorcycle, Exchange Information: You should stop your motorcycle, move it to a safe location, and exchange information with all other parties involved in the crash. State law requires accident victims to stop at the scene of a crash. 
2. Get Prompt Medical Care for Any Injuries: Emergency medical needs always come first. Make sure to get yourself checked for any injuries from the accident. If anyone is seriously injured, call 911 immediately and wait for emergency medical services to arrive. You cannot bring a motorcycle accident claim unless you see a doctor. 
3. Report the Motorcycle Accident to the Police: Motorcycle crash victims must know that it is important to contact the police after a motorcycle accident, even if the accident is minor. The police can provide assistance and create a report of the accident, which may be useful later on.
4. Document the Crash—Preserve Evidence: Once the scene of the accident is secure and everyone is safe, gather as much information as possible. Among other things, this should include the photographs, contact information of any witnesses, the insurance information of all drivers involved, and any other relevant details about the accident.
5. Notify Your Insurance Company: After a vehicle accident, it is important to contact your insurance company as soon as possible. As a general rule, motorcyclists have a duty to notify their insurance that a collision has occurred. 
6. Consult With a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer: You are not required to give a recorded statement when you notify your insurance company. Speak with our Philadelphia motorcycle accident lawyers first. It is in your best interests to deal with all insurance companies through an experienced Philadelphia motorcycle accident lawyer.

What Do Motorcycle Accident Victims Need to Know? 

Following a serious motorcycle accident, it is normal to feel confused or even overwhelmed by all of the laws, regulations, and claims procedures. At the Quinn Law Group, our Philadelphia motorcycle accident lawyer wants to make sure that you have the knowledge and resources you need to navigate the claims process. There are 10 crucial points every rider should understand after a motorcycle crash:

1. You Can Recover Compensation if You Were Not At Fault: Injured riders who weren’t at fault for an accident will generally receive compensation from their insurance companies. Whether the rider was wearing a helmet or safety equipment at the time of the crash has nothing to do with determining who is responsible for causing it.
2. Getting Compensation is More Difficult If You are Deemed At Fault: Riders who were at fault for causing a motorcycle accident often find it challenging to get compensation through their own insurance companies. There are usually rigorous standards for motorcycle riders to meet to get this type of compensation, and the rider often has to be completely free from fault for an accident.
3. You Have a Right to File a Claim Against an At-Fault Driver: A personal injury lawyer may recommend filing a lawsuit against a negligent driver after sustaining a personal injury if the motorcycle accident claim with an insurance company doesn’t go through. Even if you don’t have any visible damage but suffer from soft tissue problems, you can pursue the motorcycle accident case. 
4. You Can Get Compensation for Motorcycle Repairs: You can receive compensation for property damage after a motorcycle accident if the responsible party was operating an uninsured vehicle. It doesn’t matter if you own the property that sustained damages as long as you have proper documentation.
5. Insurance Companies Can Be Difficult to Work With: Likewise, insurance providers might refuse to offer compensation if they have reason to believe the riders were uninsured or underinsured at the time of the accident, which is why it’s crucial for anyone who wants to file suit against another party after an accident occurs to know how much insurance their policy covers.
6. You Seek Compensation for Medical Bills and Lost Income: Generally, injured victims are entitled to payouts for medical expenses and lost wages — regardless of who caused their crashes. The compensation available varies based on the severity of injuries.
7. State Laws Provide Some Important Protections: Specific state laws are meant to stop insurance companies from refusing to pay compensation after an accident. One law requires that insurance providers disclose what benefits they offer for medical expenses, lost wages, and damage costs if their policy increases by 10%. Insurance policies that don’t meet this requirement have limited benefits amounts, which could be detrimental if you were to face costly injuries.
8. Insurers May Look for Reasons to Reduce Your Payout: Insurance companies can legally reduce payouts by 10% if an injured motorcycle driver was wearing headphones or blacked out before crashing into another vehicle or object. Even if these factors did not cause the accident, it can be used as justification for smaller payments by insurance companies.
9. You Should Explore Every Option for Justice: Motorcycle riders need to remember that they can file suit against another driver or rider after an accident if their insurance company refuses to pay for damages.
10. Insurers Must Be Held Accountable: Insurance companies are bound by strict rules for paying compensation after an accident occurs. Many riders don’t know how long claims processes last to receive said payouts, but the waiting period is often more extended than other types of vehicular collisions.

All Motorcycle Accidents Require a Thorough Investigation

All motorcycle accidents require a thorough investigation by a personal injury attorney to determine the cause of the accident and who may be at fault for the resulting damages. In order to conduct a thorough investigation, it may be necessary to collect and review evidence such as witness statements, accident reports, and other relevant information with your personal injury lawyer. Additionally, it may be necessary to consult with experts such as accident reconstruction specialists to help determine the cause of the accident. You do not want to fall behind the defense and/or the insurance company in the claims process. Consult with an experienced Philadelphia motorcycle accident lawyer as soon as possible after a crash to file a personal injury claim. 

You Have a Limited Amount of Time to File a Motorcycle Accident Injury Claim

It is important to be aware that you have a limited amount of time to file a motorcycle accident injury claim. This time limit, known as the statute of limitations, varies depending on the state in which the accident occurred. Here is an overview of the statute of limitations for motorcycle accident injury cases in the Philadelphia area: 

1. Pennsylvania Motorcycle Accident Statute of Limitations: Two years. 
2. New Jersey Motorcycle Accident Statute of Limitations: Two years. 

Are there any exceptions to the motorcycle accident statute of limitations? For example, if the motorcyclist could not have reasonably discovered their injuries at the time of the crash, the statute of limitations may be paused based on the discovery rule. That being said, the exceptions are very limited. You should never wait to initiate a motorcycle accident injury claim. 

Motorcyclists Face Unique Safety Risks: 80 Percent of Collisions Result in Injuries  

Motorcycles can be an enjoyable form of transportation and recreation. At the same time, motorcyclists face some unique safety risks. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) estimates that 81 percent of all motorcycle collisions reported nationwide result in an injury to the rider. For this reason, motorcyclists are viewed as “vulnerable” road users in Pennsylvania and New Jersey. There should be a high emphasis on the importance of motorcycle safety. 

Motorcycle Accident Head Injuries

Getting around on two wheels is a terrific convenience. You can enjoy the weather and scenery while zipping in and out of traffic. Unfortunately, riding a bike also comes with big risks. If you collide with another vehicle, you will definitely suffer the brunt of the damage and suffer severe injuries. And this is true even if you are wearing a helmet to prevent traumatic brain injuries.

At Quinn Law Group, our experienced motorcycle accident lawyer help people like you get maximum compensation following motorcycle crashes. Below are some of the most serious head injuries our clients suffer. We strongly encourage you to seek immediate medical attention if you feel something is wrong following a crash such as traumatic brain injuries or other severe injuries.

Concussion

A concussion is a relatively mild traumatic brain injury (TBI). Any blow to your head, such as landing on the pavement, can cause a concussion or even spinal cord injuries. Violent shaking of the head is also sufficient.

Concussion symptoms vary by person, but some of the most common motorcycle accident injuries include:

• Losing consciousness
• Stiff neck
• Intense headaches
• Ringing in your ears
• Dizziness
• Slurred speech
• Convulsions

Concussion symptoms can last for months, and there is no pill that promotes healing. However, victims can manage symptoms with pain medication, antidepressants, and sleep aids.

Diffuse Axonal Injury

This type of TBI is caused when the brain rapidly shifts in the skull, which is common in motorcycle crashes. Axons (which are lengthy fibers) are stretched or sheared in the process. Spinal cord injuries can be extremely serious as well. Unfortunately, the damage to brain tissue often goes undetected by imaging tests, like an MRI.

The symptoms for this injury are similar to those for a concussion. However, those with a diffuse axonal injury are more likely to lose consciousness for a few hours, especially if the injury is serious. Victims will struggle with headaches, fatigue, confusion, and loss of balance.

With a serious diffuse axonal injury, you might need physical therapy, speech therapy, or other rehabilitation to try to return to normal.

Intracranial Hematoma

This is essentially bleeding in the brain, which is a very dangerous injury. If you bleed on your elbow, the blood can easily pour out of your body. But when your brain is bleeding, blood gets trapped inside your skull, putting pressure on the brain.

Symptoms of intracranial hematoma include:

• Vomiting
• Dizziness or confusion
• A headache that increases in intensity
• Slurred speech

If left untreated, a patient can lose consciousness and ultimately die. Fortunately, doctors can treat a hematoma if caught early, usually with surgery to drain the blood. Post-surgical recovery could take months.

Skull Fracture

Any fracture to the skull poses certain risks:

• Direct injury to the brain
• Increased risk of infection
• Damage to cranial nerves
• Vascular injury

Treatment will depend on the severity and nature of the fracture of this severe injury. If a patient has just a hairline crack, then a doctor might manage pain until the skull heals itself. However, if pieces of the skull are depressed in the brain, then surgery is necessary.

Lacerations or Abrasions

Cuts or abrasions on the skull might not seem like a big deal, especially compared to the brain injuries discussed above. But any cut carries an increased risk of infection as dirt and other germs penetrate the skin. Accident victims must carefully wash the wound and go to the hospital for possible stitches. Also, watch for signs of infection in the following days and weeks.

Many Other Common Injuries Can Occur in Motorcycle Accidents

Beyond TBIs and other head injuries, there are many common injuries that can occur in motorcycle accidents. These injuries can range from minor bruises and cuts to more serious injuries such as fractures, dislocations, and internal injuries. Motorcyclists are also at risk of suffering from road rash, an injury that can happen when the skin scrapes the pavement. Other common injuries include sprains, strains, and muscle contusions. In some cases, motorcyclists may also suffer from psychological injuries such as anxiety or depression as a result of the trauma. 

Recovering Maximum Compensation for a Motorcycle Accident 

Were you hurt in a motorcycle crash in Philadelphia? It is imperative that you have access to the full and proper compensation that you need to pay your bills. Our Philadelphia motorcycle accident lawyer fights aggressively to help victims secure fair compensation/verdict, including for: 

• Motorcycle repairs 
• Emergency medical support
• Medical expenses
• Loss of current and future income 
• Pain and suffering
• Disability/disfigurement
• Wrongful death

Safety Matters: Five Safety Tips for Motorcyclists 

The unfortunate reality is that motorcyclists cannot completely eliminate the risk of being involved in a serious crash. That being said, there are proactive steps that you can take that will reduce your risk of being involved in and/or seriously hurt in a collision. Here are five motorcycle safety tips: 

1. Take a Safety Course: One of the most important things a motorcyclist can do to stay safe on the road is to take a safety course. These courses are designed to teach riders the skills and techniques they need to stay safe on the road. Some states even offer specialized courses for motorcyclists that focus on topics like cornering, braking, and navigating through traffic. By taking a safety course, you can learn how to handle your motorcycle more effectively and reduce your risk of being involved in an accident.
2. Wear a Helmet Every Time You Ride: All motorcyclists in New Jersey are required to wear a motorcycle helmet. In Pennsylvania, riders over the age of 21 may lawfully opt out of wearing a helmet with the proper training. However, every rider should wear a motorcycle helmet every time they ride. Wearing a helmet is one of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of injury or death in a motorcycle accident. 
3. Slow Down: Another important safety tip for motorcyclists is to always ride at a safe speed. Pay attention to the posted speed limits and adjust your speed based on the conditions of the road. By slowing down, you can give yourself more time to react to hazards and avoid accidents. Speeding not only makes a motorcycle collision more likely to happen, it makes any crash that does occur more likely to result in severe injuries. 
4. Keep Your Full Focus on the Road: Distracted motorcycle riding is dangerous motorcycle riding. All motorcyclists in the Philadelphia area should keep their full focus and attention on the road at all times. Avoid the most common distractions like texting or eating while you are riding. By keeping your focus on the road, you can better anticipate hazards and take evasive action if necessary.
5. Avoid Riding in Adverse Conditions: Finally, it is generally a good idea to avoid riding in adverse weather conditions whenever possible. This includes riding in heavy rain, snow, or fog, as these conditions can significantly reduce visibility and increase the risk of an accident. If you must ride in adverse conditions, make sure to take extra precautions and ride at a safe speed. Inexperienced motorcyclists may also want to avoid riding at night. 

How Philadelphia Motorcycle Accident Attorney Sean E. Quinn Can Help

Motorcycle accident claims are complicated. You do not have to go up against a large insurance company alone. Our founder and managing attorney Sean E. Quinn is a nationally recognized trial lawyer with a proven record of success in complex personal injury claims. When you reach out to our Philadelphia law office, you will be able to work with a motorcycle accident attorney who can: 

• Conduct a free, fully confidential review and assessment of your personal injury claim
• Investigate the motorcycle accident, carefully gathering/organizing the evidence
• Handle the legal paperwork and represent you in settlement negotiations
• Put together a well-rounded legal strategy focused on maximizing your compensation

You Can Always Afford to Retain the Services of a Top-Rated Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

We understand that the cost of retaining a lawyer may be a concern for some motorcycle accident victims. That is why we offer our services on a contingency basis. This means that you will not be required to pay any upfront fees or costs. Instead, we will work on your case and only collect a fee if we are successful in securing a settlement or award on your behalf. You can always afford to retain the services of a top-rated Philadelphia motorcycle accident lawyer at our firm. We will fight for your rights and ensure that you receive the fair compensation you deserve.

Contact Our Philadelphia Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today

This is just the tip of the iceberg. Don’t fight the insurance company alone, call the experienced Philadelphia motorcycle accident attorneys with Quinn Law Group to receive the compensation you need for lost wages and unexpected medical bills after a motorcycle accident. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn more about your legal options. From our Philadelphia law office, we handle motorcycle accident injury claims throughout Southeastern Pennsylvania.

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