Motorcycles are known to be riskier than other forms of transportation, but there is a mistaken perception that motorcyclists are to blame in most accidents. Statistics reported by the National Highway Safety Administration indicate that in 80% of accidents involving motorcyclists, the other driver is almost always completely or partially to blame for the collision. Arizona operates under comparative fault law, which means that whoever is determined to be at fault for the accident is responsible for paying for the damages and injuries of the other motorist.
According to the Arizona Department of Transportation, there were over 3000 motorcycle crashes just in 2016, resulting in almost 2500 injuries. Of the 3000 accidents, 540 resulted in property damage only. The Government Accountability Office reported that on average, non-fatal motorcycle accidents can cost anywhere from $2,500 to $1.4 million depending on the severity of the accident, and fatal motorcycle cases cost close to $1.2 million in damages.
When you are injured in a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to both economic and noneconomic damages. Economic damages are things like medical bills and lost wages, and noneconomic damages may include things like pain and suffering. Therefore, if you are in a motorcycle accident, it is imperative that you seek the help of an experience accident attorney to help you recover the damages you are entitled . The Folger Law Firm in Phoenix specializes in helping our clients with their motorcycle accident cases.
The first step after an accident is determining liability for the accident. Once liability is determined, damages are calculated. Specific types of damages that the motorcyclist is entitled to are:
- Medical bills
- Physical therapy and rehabilitation costs
- Lost wages
- Pain and suffering
- Emotional distress
- Replacing or repairing the motorcycle
Economic versus noneconomic damages
A person is entitled to recover both economic and noneconomic damages. As stated before, economic damages are things like lost wages and medical bills. Things that fall in the noneconomic damages category are pain, suffering and emotional distress and loss of enjoyment of life. These damages are more difficult to calculate, which is why hiring an experienced accident attorney is imperative to receiving fair compensation for your injuries and damages. The Folger Law Firm offers a free initial consultation to discuss your case.
Those who ride motorcycles are more likely to get into a collision than any other forms of transportation, but it is rarely the motorcyclist’s fault. If you are involved in an accident while riding a motorcycle, it is imperative that you hire skilled legal representation. Since the injuries that result from motorcycle accidents can be costly and even life-altering, getting all that you are entitled to is extremely important to make sure that you are covered not just for your injuries, lost income and medical costs already incurred, but also for future medical costs and lost earnings. We will fight for a fair settlement on your behalf. Contact the Folger Law Firm today to get the professional help you need to win your case.