If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident, it’s important to understand what types of compensation you may be entitled to. With the help of experienced Phoenix motorcycle accident lawyers, you can work with our team to obtain damages from liable parties such as negligent drivers or their insurance companies.
Common types of compensatory damages in a motorcycle accident case may include:
- Medical expenses
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Loss of quality of life
- Wrongful death
- Emotional distress
- Punitive damages
An attorney can ensure bikers get the full and fair recovery they deserve under the law from liable insurers and reduce the burdens of medical costs, lost productivity, and other crash consequences.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Phoenix
Driver Negligence and Inattention
One of the most common causes of motorcycle accidents is driver negligence. Drivers distracted by cell phones, adjusting controls, or other passengers may fail to notice motorcyclists, leading to devastating collisions. Motorcycles are more difficult to see than other vehicles, so drivers must be especially vigilant. Our attorneys work diligently to investigate cases involving driver negligence, gathering evidence such as traffic camera footage, phone records, and witness testimonies to establish fault and pursue the maximum compensation you deserve.
Hazardous Road Conditions
Uneven pavement, potholes, loose gravel, and poor signage pose significant threats to motorcyclists. Local governments and entities responsible for road maintenance must keep roads safe for all drivers. They can be held liable for damages when they fail to maintain road conditions, leading to a motorcycle accident. We have experience handling cases where hazardous road conditions played a role, and our team meticulously reviews maintenance records, photographs of the accident site, and expert opinions to build a compelling case for compensation.
Vehicle Defects and Equipment Failures
In some motorcycle accident cases, the cause is a defective motorcycle part or safety equipment failure. Examples include brake malfunctions, tire blowouts, and faulty helmets. Manufacturers have a legal duty to ensure their products meet safety standards; if they fail to do so, they may be liable for resulting injuries. Our attorneys are skilled at identifying cases involving defective parts and equipment and work with industry experts to investigate these claims thoroughly, holding manufacturers accountable and pursuing compensation for injuries caused by these defects.
Deadline for a Phoenix Motorcycle Accident Personal Injury Claim
Arizona has a statute of limitations defining how long you must file a personal injury claim. It’s important for riders involved in accidents to be aware of these timeframes.
According to A.R.S. § 12-542, you only have two years to file a personal injury claim after your motorcycle accident. As an injured biker, you have two years from the accident date to file a motorcycle accident claim against the at-fault parties.
If you don’t file a lawsuit within this two-year statute of limitations, as a motorcycle rider, your rights to compensation may expire, and you could be barred from taking legal action later on, even if injuries and their full impacts take longer to materialize.
Who Can Be at Fault in a Phoenix Motorcycle Accident?
Several potential parties could be considered at fault following an accident. Determining liability depends on the specific circumstances and level of negligence in each case.
The other vehicle’s driver may bear responsibility if they fail to look for and yield to other drivers properly. Examples could include:
- Failing to check carefully before turning
- Failing to notice a vehicle in its blind spot
- Driving distractedly
- Speeding
Road conditions could be another cause of your injuries. If surfaces are unusually slippery or visibility is reduced due to problems that should have been addressed, government bodies could share the blame.
In rare cases, mechanical defects contributing to loss of control can implicate manufacturers, especially if the issue had been recalled previously. If the car that hit you needed to be serviced and the mechanic didn’t fix the issue, both the mechanic and driver could be liable.
How to Negotiate With the Insurance Company After a Motorcycle Crash
Dealing with the insurance company on your own after a motorcycle accident can be a difficult process. That’s why our team of motorcycle accident attorneys at our Phoenix law firm will accompany you to meet with the insurance adjuster. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Gather all documentation of the losses and injuries you’ve suffered. For example, if you’ve suffered road rash, treat it as soon as possible, and then we can help you obtain documentation for it.
- Do not talk directly to the insurance company or their claims adjusters without your lawyer present. The insurance company will try to get you to say something that hurts your case.
- Be prepared to tell your side of the story to the insurance company’s claims adjuster. Provide any evidence like photos or witness statements.
- Do not admit fault or sign any paperwork from the insurance company without review from your lawyer. The insurance company is not working in your interests.
- If communication stalls, your attorney may threaten legal action to motivate a resolution. But keep negotiating as long as progress is being made.
- Insurance companies will often lowball the first offer. Have your lawyer review it and be prepared to justify requesting a higher settlement professionally.
- Be willing to negotiate on payment installments if needing ongoing medical care for full recovery from injuries.
- Accept a reasonable offer only if it fully reimburses all documented expenses and damages. Getting what you deserve upfront can avoid prolonged litigation.
Millions Recovered for Motorcycle Accident Victims
In 2013, Suzuki Law Offices obtained a $3 million settlement for a motorcyclist who suffered a traumatic brain injury and had one of his legs amputated after a serious motorcycle collision. We apply this same level of dedication to every case that we handle.
When you work with us, our team of Phoenix motorcycle accident lawyers will undertake a comprehensive investigation of the accident and the effects it has had on your life. We can investigate the accident and establish the liability of the other driver.
Our motorcycle accident law firm has experience handling accident cases involving serious and life-changing injuries, including:
- Head injuries
- Spinal cord injuries
- Broken bones
- Amputations
We will work with your doctor or other specialists to understand the medical care and services you need. We will seek full compensation for your medical costs and other damages you’ve suffered.
How We Can Help with Your Motorcycle Accident Claim
Thorough Case Investigation
Our attorneys conduct a comprehensive investigation of each motorcycle accident case. This includes reviewing police reports, gathering witness statements, examining traffic camera footage, and consulting accident reconstruction experts when needed. This meticulous approach helps establish fault and build a strong foundation for your claim. At Suzuki Law Offices, we leave no stone unturned, ensuring that every aspect of your accident is thoroughly investigated to support your pursuit of justice.
Negotiating with Insurance Companies
Insurance companies may attempt to minimize payouts by disputing fault or downplaying the extent of injuries. Our experienced lawyers are skilled in handling negotiations with insurance adjusters to secure fair compensation. We handle all communication with insurance companies, protecting you from lowball offers and ensuring your claim reflects the true extent of your injuries, lost wages, and future medical needs. Our goal is to alleviate the stress of negotiations so you can focus on your recovery.
Representation in Court
If your case proceeds to trial, our seasoned trial attorneys are prepared to advocate for you in court. With extensive courtroom experience, our team understands how to present compelling evidence, make persuasive arguments, and fight tirelessly for your rights. We are committed to achieving the best possible outcome for our clients, and if a fair settlement cannot be reached, we will confidently take your case to court to pursue the compensation you deserve.
How Much Does It Cost to Hire a Motorcycle Accident Attorney in Phoenix?
After suffering costly injuries in a motorcycle accident, you may be hesitant to hire an attorney to avoid extra fees. However, you don’t have to worry about any fees when you work with our team because we work on a contingency fee basis. This means that you don’t have to worry about any fees, and you only pay us when we win you a settlement.
We’ve been helping motorcyclists for years after accidents, and we get the results you need so you can get back on the road.
Contact Our Phoenix Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Today
At Suzuki Law Offices, our Phoenix motorcycle accident attorney can help you recover compensation and hold the at-fault parties liable for their negligence. We’re your voice in action after you’re injured in a motorcycle accident.
Contact us to get a free case evaluation today.
Call or text 602-682-5270 or complete a Free Case Evaluation form.
