Motorcycle Accidents
MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT LAWYERS IN PHOENIX, AZ
The fantastic Arizona weather is inviting for those who love the thrill of a motorcycle ride, which is why it remains a favorite mode of transportation for many Arizona residents. Not only can motorcycles be an exciting way to get around town, but motorcycles are also highly efficient from an economic standpoint.
With all the advantages to riding a motorcycle, there is one significant disadvantage—they are one of the most dangerous ways to get around. When you ride a motorcycle, you have an increased risk of getting into a collision—far more so than when driving in a single passenger vehicle or taking public transportation. Motorcyclists have an increased risk of serious injury or death over automobile drivers and are more than three times more likely to require emergency care or hospitalization after an accident.
Folger Law Firm can help. For over 20 years, our Phoenix motorcycle accident lawyers have been fighting for the rights of injured bikers throughout Arizona. We can help you obtain the compensation you need to pay for your medical bills, lost wages, and other accident-related expenses.
To learn more during a free case evaluation, call (602) 774-0033 or contact us online.
MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT DATA
According to the Arizona Department of Motor Vehicles, in 2016 alone, there were a total of 3,104 motorcycle accidents. This is a substantial increase from 2015 and even more so from previous decades. Of the 3,104 motorcycle accidents, there were 144 fatalities and over 2,590 motorcyclists injured.
Arizona is one of only twelve states that currently reports more than 100 motorcycle accident fatalities on its roadways annually. Those killed most frequently are men between the ages of 30 to 50 years old. Whether the accidents happen in rural or urban areas, the consequences are nearly the same.
According to the Motorcycle Safety Foundation, more than half of motorcycle accidents involve another vehicle, and the motorcyclist is not at fault. The most common cause of motorcycle accidents is that a driver fails to notice a motorcycle and pulls out in front of them. Automobile drivers typically either fail to see motorcyclists or misjudge a motorcyclist’s speed. Although the stereotype exists that motorcycle accidents are in large part due to excessive speeding or other risky behaviors by the motorcyclist, the facts show that in most instances the opposite is true, a motorcycle accident is caused by the other vehicle.
WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON CAUSES OF MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENTS?
A motorcycle accident can be a devastating and life altering event. Motorcycles lack any protective structure around them, which means they are more susceptible to severe injuries or death when they’re in an accident.
Speeding
Rear-end accidents caused by sudden stops
Driving under the influence.
Lane changes
Lane splitting (which is illegal in Arizona)
Hazardous road conditions
Inexperience
COMMON MOTORCYCLE ACCIDENT INJURIES
While motorcycle accident injuries can range from mild to severe, it is rare that a biker walks away from a serious accident unscathed. Unfortunately, even with helmets and other protective gear, bikers are simply more vulnerable in a crash without seatbelts and other protection.
Broken bones
Facial scarring and disfigurement
Loss of limb
Road rash
Spinal cord injuries
Cuts, scrapes, and bruises
Internal injuries
Lost teeth
Soft tissue injuries
Traumatic brain injuries (TBI)
WHAT TO DO AFTER A MOTORCYCLE CRASH
Often, following a motorcycle crash, an independent investigation may be necessary to determine who is at fault for the accident.
Surveillance videos
Eyewitness accounts
Photographs
Also, if you should sustain injuries, it is critical that you immediately get medical care. You will need to show documentation of your injuries and get medical opinions about the long-term implications and severity of the injuries sustained from the accident.
Most importantly, don’t talk to any insurance company without the guidance of an experienced auto accident attorney. Otherwise, you may be talked into accepting a settlement offer that is far less than what you need or deserve.
ARE YOU REQUIRED TO WEAR A MOTORCYCLE HELMET IN ARIZONA?
In Arizona you are not required to wear a helmet if you are over the age of 18. If you, or a passenger, are 17 years of age or younger, you are required by law to wear a helmet.
However, you must wear glasses, goggles, or a face shield if your motorcycle does not have a windshield.
Even though it isn’t required, wearing a helmet isn’t required, it’s still recommended to wear one. The main reason is because wearing a helmet could save your life.
CALL NOW FOR LEGAL ADVICE DURING A FREE CONSULTATION
If you are involved in a motorcycle accident, it is imperative that you hire the assistance of an experienced motorcycle accident attorney. At Folger Law Firm, we handle motorcycle injury cases on a contingency basis, and our excellent reviews speak for themselves.
You should have legal representation before you make any formal or informal statements. If you are injured in a motorcycle accident in Phoenix, regardless of how minor, it is critical to hire an experienced lawyer from the Folger Law Firm to ensure that you can adequately recover from your injuries. Our motto of “Experience with Persistence” means we won’t stop fighting until you get the compensation deserved.
Contact Folger Law today to receive the legal help you need