The Kryder Law Group asked 11 knowledgeable motorcycle accident lawyers from across the country the question: “Why hire a lawyer for a motorcycle crash?” If you’ve been injured while riding your motorcycle, you may be wondering why you need to hire a lawyer. There are many compelling reasons from staggering crash statistics to the ways an attorney can help you through the challenging time after your accident. We’ve gathered answers to these questions from attorneys across the country including:
- Why should I hire a motorcycle accident lawyer, can I handle my claim myself?
- How do I pick a lawyer for a motorcycle crash that’s right for me?
- Why do I need a lawyer for my motorcycle crash case?
- Why do I need legal representation for a motorcycle crash?
- How will a lawyer help me with my motorcycle accident?
- After a motorcycle crash, how can a motorcycle accident lawyer assist?
- How can an attorney help me after my motorcycle wreck?
- Why hire a lawyer for a motorcycle accident injury?
- How do I know if I should hire a lawyer for my motorcycle collision injuries?
- Why should I seek legal counsel for my motorcycle injury case?
- What will a motorcycle accident lawyer do for me?
As the weather breaks, another motorcycle riding season is upon us. This year, riders can look forward to long stretches of mountain roads, trips to remote locations, traveling historic routes, and the vast expanse of the open road. Before you set out for your ride, check your bike and equipment. Check your tire pressure, test your brakes, and perform any regular maintenance. Be sure your registration and insurance is up to date and have an emergency plan in place that includes the number of an emergency contact. With the staggering number of motorcycle accidents that occur in the United States each year, it’s important to have a plan.
Want to know what a motorcycle accident lawyer can do for your case? Get answers from the experiencedChicago personal injury lawyersat The Kryder Law Group.
For a free legal consultation, call (312) 598-0739
Statistics on Motorcycle Accidents for Illinois
Since the 1920s, the popularity of motorcycles has dramatically increased along with the number of motorcycles on the road. There are over 8.3 million motorcycles registered across the country and Illinois has over 300,000 registered motorcycles. Each year in Illinois, motorcycle fatalities make up almost a quarter of the deaths caused by motor vehicle crashes. This staggering statistic emphasizes the dangers that motorcyclists face every time they get out on the road. This is why advocate groups for the motorcycling community focus on safety and accident prevention.
What is the biggest cause of motorcycle accidents?
There are many factors common to motorcycle wrecks ranging from weather conditions to rider experience to a factor involving the driver of the other motor vehicle. Often the most serious collisions will include a combination of these issues. Over the last 20 years, The Kryder Law Group has handled cases that involved these common factors:
- Loss of control of the bike, skidding or low-side crashes
- Sudden stops and breaking resulting in high-side crashes
- Group accidents
- Poor road conditions
- Dooring accidents
- Intoxication or dangerous driving
- Side swipes or rear end accidents
- Failure to yield during lane changing, lane splitting, or merging
- Lack of visibility
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Motorcyclists vs. Motorists
In accidents involving motorcycles, motorcycle visibility (or the lack thereof) is a major contributing factor according to the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS). In an article from 2017, the IIHS reported that over 8,000 two-vehicle crashes involving motorcycles could be prevented each year by simply improving passenger vehicle safety technology that helps motorists detect motorcyclists. Vehicles equipped with front crash prevention, lane assist technology, and blind spot detection configured to help detect motorcycles could prevent crashes and injuries. According to the study, the combination of these three technologies have the potential to prevent an estimated 10% of two-vehicle motorcycle crash fatalities, 19% of non-fatal crashes with motorcycles, and 23% of police reported motorcycle crashes.
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Why Hire The Kryder Law Group to Handle Your Motorcycle Accident?
- The Kryder Law Group maintains a rapid response team that deploys to a motorcycle accident scene within hours to preserve and document critical evidence.
- To preserve evidence our lawyers will:
- Send subpoenas.
- Send spoliation letters ensuring evidence is preserved.
- Issue Freedom of Information requests.
- Hire the experts to evaluate, identify, document, preserve and analyze evidence.
- To preserve evidence our lawyers will:
- Our lead attorney has over two decades of litigation of experience.
- We have the resources, preparation, and experience to help maximize a catastrophic motorcycle injury case. We know how to hire the correct experts to prove your case.
- The Kryder Law Group will handle your case on a contingency fee, which means there are no fees unless money is recovered in a settlement. The Kryder Law Group also advances the costs associated with litigation. This means we will not ask for upfront costs from you to pursue the case.
We asked 11 experienced motorcycle accident lawyers from across the United States the question: “Why should you hire an attorney for a motorcycle accident?” This is what they said.
Why hire an attorney for a motorcycle accident?
Andrew A. Kryder (20+ Years Experience) Chicago Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Andrew S. Kryder, Esq., Founder, The Kryder Law Group
Why should I hire a motorcycle accident lawyer, can I handle my claim myself?
This question might be answered best by asking yourself several questions. Law is a highly specialized profession and it makes sense having someone ready to listen, who has decades of legal experience on your side. Knowledge on how to handle motorcycle injury claims can make a dramatic difference in the outcome of your case.
If you are wondering if you should hire a lawyer, ask yourself these basic questions:
- If your case is denied, would you be comfortable filing your own lawsuit and appearing in court on your own behalf?
- Do you know how to properly value your case?
- Do you know the deadlines for your case?
- Do you know how to make sure your medical bills are paid for the lowest possible amount?
- Do you know how to order traffic footage or a police report?
- Do you know how to submit evidence?
- Do you know what settlement you are entitled to?
- Do you know of all insurance policies that apply to your claim?
- Do you understand everything the insurance company is sending you or telling you?
If you answered “no” to any of these questions or are unsure about what any of the questions mean, you should hire a lawyer immediately. The Kryder Law Group will handle your case on a contingency fee, so you will not pay any fees unless money is recovered for you in a settlement. We also advance the costs associated with litigation, so there are no upfront costs to you.
Erin M. Hargis (16 Years Experience) Suffolk County, Long Island Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Erin M. Hargis, Esq., Partner, Rosenberg & Gluck, L.L.P.
How do I pick a lawyer for a motorcycle crash that’s right for me?
If you have been involved in a motorcycle accident, you are likely looking for an experienced lawyer to help you receive the settlement or award you deserve. This can seem like an intimidating process, but it certainly doesn’t have to be. By asking the right questions, you can better make an educated decision. We are happy to discuss any questions you may have. When searching for a lawyer, it’s important to find an attorney with years of experience and a solid reputation, and one who will clearly discuss all aspects of the case, including any liability concerns, and thoroughly evaluate all areas of damages and available compensation.
Experience Matters
In the legal system, nothing beats experience. You want a lawyer that won’t be surprised by the details of your case. At Rosenberg & Gluck, our eight attorneys have more than 115 years of combined personal injury experience. We have seen every type of case imaginable, yet we understand no two are the same. Let us put our experience to work for you.
Reputation Matters
As it is in any field, reputation is vitally important in the legal system. Our attorneys are members of Super Lawyers (top 2% in the legal profession), and have achieved the highest possible rating for ability and ethics as judged by other members of the legal profession (AV Martindale-Hubbell Peer Review Rated). We let our accolades and referrals do the talking for us.
At our office, we understand motorcycle accident victims face a number of challenges. With that realization in mind, we work alongside you to collect facts in an honest and forthright manner. Those facts are used to confront all parties involved and determine whether you have grounds for a claim. By letting our experienced lawyers represent you, you can relieve your financial concerns and focus on healing.
The legal system can be confusing and complicated, but it doesn’t have to be. Contact Rosenberg & Gluck, L.L.P., today to schedule a free consultation to discuss your motorcycle accident case. We are available 24/7 and will discuss your options – no strings attached. If you are unable to travel as a result of injuries, we can come to you. Call us today at (631) 250-4072.
Matthew H. Bligh (18 Years Experience) Nassau County, Long Island Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Matthew H. Bligh, Esq., Partner, Rosenberg & Gluck, L.L.P.
Why do I need a lawyer for my motorcycle crash case?
In motorcycle accidents, the blame is often shifted to motorcyclists for no reason. For this reason, it is important to have experienced legal representation. We understand motorcycle rights and will work with you to make sure you receive fair representation every step of the way.
Motorcycle Rights Groups
In New York, motorcycle rights are constantly challenged. Multiple organizations work to defend these rights and help fellow bikers understand the laws that impact bikers. The New York Freedom Riders are a political activist group dedicated to protecting rights and restoring freedoms. They seek to elect lawmakers who will ensure the support of biker issues.
ABATE of New York works to educate American bikers about rights and safety. Their main goal is to promote favorable motorcycle legislation for issues regarding insurance, licensing, modifications, bans, restrictions, emissions, and noise levels. Additionally, they seek to alert the Department of Transportation of dangerous roadway conditions, prevent accidents through education, and promote positive community relations.
From a national standpoint, the American Motorcycle Association (AMA) works to promote rights and safety across the country. To date, the AMA has contributed more than $100,000 to study the causes of motorcycle crashes.
As a motorcyclist, your rights are constantly being challenged. By making yourself aware of the rules, laws, and legislation surrounding the issues, you can be better prepared to fight for your freedoms. Check out these sources and begin educating yourself on the issues that truly matter.
Helping Injured Riders in Long Island
Motorcycle accidents are a serious issue. While drivers are usually able to safely walk away from a typical car accident, motorcyclists are not always so lucky. The absence of seat belts, airbags, and an enclosed metal structure puts riders at risk every time they hit the road. If you need representation, our attorneys are here to help.
For more information regarding motorcycle accidents, contact the experienced motorcycle crash attorneys at Rosenberg & Gluck today. We will schedule a free consultation to discuss the specific details of your case. Because accidents don’t just happen during business hours, we are here 24/7. Reach us at (631) 250-4072.
Ashley D. Marks (10 Years Experience) Indianapolis Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Ashley D. Marks, Esq., Partner, Hankey Law Office
Why do I need legal representation for a motorcycle crash?
Due to the severity of motorcycle accidents, it is important to have experienced legal representation on your side. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were 4,668 motorcyclists killed in motorcycle accidents in the United States in 2013 alone. In addition, 88,000 motorcyclists were injured in 2013 and motorcyclists accounted for 14 percent of all traffic fatalities. Moreover, the NHTSA found that motorcyclists are nearly 35 times more likely to die in an accident than drivers and passengers of other types of vehicles and are nearly 8 times more likely to be injured. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident, the Indianapolis motorcycle accident lawyers at the Hankey Law Office are here to help you. Our attorneys have more than seventy-five years of combined experience in representing citizens of Indianapolis who have been injured in accidents. Since our founding, we have been the go-to firm that the Indianapolis community has turned to for our expert knowledge, advice, and reliability.
We understand how devastating a motorcycle accident can be for the rider, passengers, and family members who have lost loved ones if the crash was fatal. We firmly believe that all drivers should exercise caution while driving, especially when motorcycles are present on the road. If a driver’s negligent or reckless actions cause a biker harm, they should absolutely be held accountable for their actions and any injuries that they cause.
If you are looking for help from attorneys who truly care, look no further than the Hankey Law Office. Contact our team of legal professionals today at (317) 634-8565 to find out more about how we can help you receive the compensation you deserve.
Stacy J. Crider (12 Years Experience) Indiana Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Stacy J. Crider, Esq., Partner, Hankey Law Office
How will a lawyer help me with my motorcycle accident?
Motorcycle accidents can be devastating for the rider, passengers, and family members who have lost loved ones if the crash was fatal. It is important to have help from attorneys who truly care and will answer your questions. Here are frequently asked questions (FAQs) about motorcycle accidents that we hear the most from our clients.
What happens if the insurance company claims that I was at fault for my crash?
It is common for insurers to blame most motorcycle accidents on the motorcyclists. Such tactics, however, are not always based on the facts. Insurance companies will look for reasons to blame you for your accident.
One of the easiest ways to get this evidence is by getting you to unknowingly admit to negligence during a recorded phone conversation. Do not speak with any insurance company until you have retained legal counsel.
How long do I have to file a legal claim in Indiana?
You have two years from the date of your accident to file a personal injury lawsuit and two years from the date of death to file a wrongful death lawsuit. Minors will have two years to file a personal injury or wrongful death lawsuit after they turn 18.
What kinds of compensation can be recovered for a motorcycle accident?
Motorcycle accident victims can be entitled to many kinds of compensation. The victim’s injuries weigh heavily in compensation awards, but most cases are resolved with settlements that will cover all the expenses related to the motorcycle crash.
If an insurance company doesn’t offer a satisfactory settlement before the statute of limitations is about to expire, your lawyer will file a lawsuit to take the case to trial.
If overwhelming evidence is presented to support the claim, then you could be awarded compensation that covers economic and noneconomic losses.
A rare number of cases could also result in punitive damage awards (which are typically small), but such awards are used to punish defendants for particularly egregious conduct, such as drunk driving.
Call the Hankey Law Office Today for Your Indiana Motorcycle Accident
Not all firms are equipped with the resources and skills necessary to handle motorcycle accident cases. At the Hankey Law Office, we know how challenging these situations can be and our attorneys have the experience you need to get your life and your finances back in order. If you or a loved one has been involved in a motorcycle accident, you can’t afford to leave your future up to chance. Call (317) 634-8565 to speak with our team of Indianapolis motorcycle accident lawyers at the Hankey Law Office and learn more about how we can help you.
Aaron Gartlan (20+ Years Experience) Dothan, Alabama Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Aaron Gartlan, Esq., Founder, Gartlan Injury Law
After a motorcycle crash, how can a motorcycle accident lawyer assist?
An experienced motorcycle accident attorney can stand up for an injured motorcyclist’s rights and prevent an insurance company from taking advantage of the situation. No lawyer can guarantee a specific outcome. But a knowledgeable attorney can make sure your accident case is heard and that you are treated fairly. Without an attorney advocating for you, you can expect the insurance company to try to blame you for the accident or offer a settlement that does not reflect the severity of your injuries.
Our team at Gartlan Injury Law works to gather evidence and develop a persuasive case for full and fair compensation for our client. This typically includes:
- Investigating the Motorcycle Crash—Our motorcycle crash attorneys analyze the evidence to determine how the accident occurred and who was at fault. Was the other driver distracted or looking at a cell phone? Was the other driver driving carelessly or speeding? Did other factors such as uneven pavement contribute to the crash? Were there eyewitnesses? Are there nearby security cameras that might have recorded the accident?
- Hiring Medical Experts—If your injuries are serious or disabling, our attorneys will work with medical professionals to understand the lifetime effects of your injuries and your future medical needs. The testimony of medical professionals can provide compelling evidence to support your motorcycle injury claim.
- Negotiating with Insurance Companies—Our attorneys are seasoned negotiators. We will deal with the insurance companies on your behalf, so you can focus on your recovery.
- Seeking Justice—Our attorneys are successful in settling most motorcycle accident cases without a trial. But if the insurance company refuses to agree to a fair settlement, we will be prepared to take your case to court and seek justice.
Moses R. DeWitt (10 Years Experience) Orlando, FL Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Moses R. DeWitt, Esq., DeWitt Law Firm
How can an attorney help me after my motorcycle wreck?
Motorcycle accidents present a unique set of circumstances, as the injuries are typically significantly different than the injuries that would occur from a car accident. It is important to retain an attorney who will help you by properly calculating your damages based upon the unique injuries that are incurred from a motorcycle accident. They can also help by properly evaluating the insurance coverage available, the potential damages, and the long-term care required to rehabilitate the injuries.
The DeWitt Law Firm is experienced in dealing with insurance adjusters and insurance defense lawyers, and will help ensure you are fully and completely compensated for your injuries. We will investigate your claim and represent your best interest in dealing with insurance companies on your behalf while you focus on your recovery.
Our dedicated Orlando motorcycle accident attorneys provide free consultations to discuss your case and provide answers to the many questions you may have. We will guide you through the process, provide you with advice and assist you in recovering all the money you are entitled to.
Justin Hare (17 Years Experience) Elgin Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Justin Hare, Esq., Partner, The Kryder Law Group
Why hire a lawyer for a motorcycle accident injury?
If you have a serious injury from a motorcycle accident, a lawyer can help you maximize your recovery. An experienced bike accident lawyer knows the value of your case and how to make an insurance company pay the maximum compensation for your pain and suffering. They can also help you recover lost pay and other compensation you may be entitled to. And, of course, they will guide you through the process, answer your questions, and tell you what to expect at each step of your case.
An experienced attorney will be able to answer questions about your motorcycle crash injury case, like:
- How much is my motorcycle injury claim worth? Every Illinois motorcycle case is different. You may be entitled to compensation for lost wages, medical bills, future medical bills, or disability. You may also be eligible for compensation for loss of a normal life or money for pain and suffering.
- How long will it take to settle my motorcycle injury claim? Some cases can be resolved quickly after you complete your medical treatment. If we are hired immediately after a motorcycle accident, it is easier to gather and preserve evidence that may later disappear. In most instances, the sooner we can begin work, the sooner we are able to resolve a case. However, in other instances, resolving a motorcycle collision can take longer.
If you have been injured in a motorcycle collision that occurred in Elgin or the greater Chicago metropolitan area, we can help. If you would like to discuss your case, contact the Kryder Law Group for a free consultation. Call us at 312-598-0870 or email us at info@kryderlaw.com today.
Alexander Gerteis (7 Years Experience) Joliet Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Alexander Gerteis, Esq., Senior Associate, The Kryder Law Group
How do I know if I should hire a lawyer for my motorcycle collision injuries?
If you are unsure about hiring a lawyer to help you with your injury case, take advantage of a free consultation and get your questions answered directly. Most law firms that help bike accident victims offer a free case evaluation. So, you will have an opportunity to speak directly to the lawyer who will handle your case. Making sure you find a knowledgeable motorcycle accident attorney who is a good fit for you is one of the most important things you can do for your case.
What will I get in my free motorcycle injury consultation?
The Kryder Law Group will provide a totally free, no obligation evaluation of your claim. Our experienced motorcycle injury lawyers are ready to answer all your questions. We like to understand the goals and expectations of every client before we begin a case and we are here to listen to you. That is why the Kryder Law Group provides a free consultation to every client.
Here is what you get during your consultation for your motorcycle crash case:
- We evaluate the strength or weakness of your case.
- We identify the compensation you are entitled to receive.
- We evaluate the existence of available insurance coverage.
- We discuss the extent of your injuries and whether specialists are needed.
- We evaluate whether expert testimony, such as an accident reconstructionist, is needed for your case.
- We give you an estimate of how long the case will take to complete.
- We will listen to you and answer any questions you may have.
There is no obligation. There is no cost. There is no reason not to call to find out for yourself what the value of your motorcycle collision case may be.
Ryan McGovern (5 Years Experience) Springfield Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Ryan McGovern, Esq., Associate, The Kryder Law Group
Why should I seek legal counsel for my motorcycle injury case?
Having an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer focus on your economic recovery while you focus on your medical recovery is probably the number one reason to seek legal counsel. When you’ve suffered severe injuries from a motorcycle crash, your number one priority should be your health. Having a lawyer focused on your claim while you focus on your wellbeing ensures that both important priorities are being handled. You do not want your claim to be neglected during your recovery. An experienced injury lawyer can ensure all necessary steps are taken to maximize your settlement including investigating all sources of insurance coverage.
Why You Should Check Your Insurance Before You Ride
The value of your claim is greatly influenced by the insurance covering the person responsible for your bike accident. Having appropriate insurance can mean the difference between fair compensation for your injuries suffered in a motorcycle accident and being left with bills. For example, let’s imagine that you are severely injured in a motorcycle accident and have $100,000 in medical bills. If the person who hit you only has $50,000 in liability coverage, then the chances of recovering fair compensation for your injuries would be much more difficult. The available coverage in this example is not enough to pay your medical bills.
This is why you should make sure your motorcycle insurance policy has under-insured motorist benefits. This coverage compensates you if the value of your claim exceeds the policy limits of the person who hit you. This time, imagine that you are severely injured and have $100,000 in medical bills. Unfortunately, the person who hit you only carried $50,000 in liability insurance. Now assume you have $500,000 in under-insured motorist benefits. This type of coverage would allow you to collect the $50,000 from the person who hit you and then submit a claim to your own insurance for up to $450,000 more. Having the appropriate insurance can ensure you are fully compensated for your injuries and having a knowledgeable attorney on your side can ensure that potential insurance coverage is fully investigated.
If you are ready to seek legal counsel from an experienced motorcycle crash attorney who will help maximize your case, contact us for a free consultation at (312) 598-0739.
Thomas Conway (2 Years Experience) Waukegan Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
“What will a motorcycle accident lawyer do for me?”
If you are injured in a motorcycle crash, consider hiring a lawyer to help you immediately. These are the top 3 things a motorcycle accident lawyer can do for you to maximize your case:
- Determine insurance coverage
- Investigate your crash, gather, and preserve evidence
- Retain experts, if needed
1. Determine Insurance Coverage
Your attorney will help you by determining insurance coverage and will notify the insurance company of the vehicle that caused your accident that a claim is being presented. The insurance company may be involved in portions of your investigation. For cases that involve catastrophic injury or death, knowing how much insurance coverage is present is important to know before any settlement negotiations can begin. There can be multiple insurance policies involved. One policy could cover the vehicle that struck you and an umbrella or excess insurance coverage could also exist.
2. Investigate, Gather and Preserve Evidence
Every case starts with investigating, gathering, and preserving evidence. The more evidence your attorney can gather after your crash, the better your motorcycle injury claim will become.
Documenting evidence from a crash takes skill and knowledge to be done swiftly. Critical evidence can disappear with time. For example, skid marks from your bike can fade in a matter of days, and a totaled motorcycle can be disposed of if a preservation letter is not immediately sent. The key is to locate, gather and preserve evidence for use. This means you will have evidence to use during the claim stage, during litigation, or at trial. If the evidence is not preserved, it can diminish the ability to prove your claim.
3. Retain Needed Accident Experts
Your attorney can help determine if an accident expert is necessary to help interpret the evidence properly. These experts may include:
- Accident Reconstructionist – An expert to help determine the cause of the crash
- Economist – An expert who determines financial loss including future economic impact
- Life care planner – An expert who can determine possible long term medical expenses in the future
If you are ready to seek the help of an attorney for your motorcycle accident case, contact the lawyers at The Kryder Law Group for a free consultation to discuss your legal rights at (312) 598-0739.
Call or text (312) 598-0739 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form
