Sedona Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Sedona Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Motorcycles are becoming increasingly popular in Arizona due to the pleasant weather and beautiful scenery. For most riders, each trip on their motorcycle is safe and uneventful. However, even for those who wear their helmet, follow traffic laws, and take other safety precautions—they can still get hurt in accidents caused by other people. Consult with a skilled Sedona motorcycle accident lawyer if you’ve been injured to learn about your options.

Common Injuries After a Motorcycle Accident

Not every motorcycle collision happens under the same circumstances, so the injuries the rider may incur can vary quite a bit. It’s important to note that even seemingly minor or moderate injuries are still serious and should be treated as such. Even if you recover quickly or the lingering symptoms are minimal, you are still entitled to compensation for your medical bills and damaged property.

These are some of the most frequently reported injuries after a motorcycle accident:

• Fractured or shattered bones and dislocated joints.
• Sprained ligaments and strained muscles or tendons.
• Damage to the spinal cord and surrounding tissue.
• Crush injuries.
• Bruising and internal bleeding.
• Traumatic brain injuries and damage to other organs.
• Road rash, burns, and scrapes.

How Does a Motorcycle Accident Typically Happen?

As with any traffic incident, motorcycle accidents may happen for a variety of reasons. While sometimes the motorcycle rider may be partially at fault for the collision, it’s typically the other motorist involved who’s found to be responsible for the incident. Common reasons include the driver failing to yield to the motorcyclist, following the motorcycle too closely, ignoring stop signs or red lights, and speeding or otherwise driving recklessly.

Traffic crashes are also more likely to occur if either party is operating a vehicle while under the influence of alcohol or other substances. It’s also possible for accidents to happen if motorists aren’t cautious enough in poor weather or low visibility conditions or on treacherous roads where there’s debris, potholes, or construction.

For motorcycle riders, it’s important to remember that you’re especially vulnerable while driving in traffic. Not only are you inherently less protected due to not being inside your vehicle, but the small size of motorcycles relative to passenger vehicles means you’re often in the blind spot of the drivers around you. Many drivers don’t notice motorcyclists, even while driving behind them, so beware of those around you suddenly changing lanes, turning without yielding, etc.

Damages You Can Recover After a Motorcycle Incident

The amount you may receive in compensation following a motorcycle incident—if you win the injury claim—depends on the details of your case. The most apparent factor is the extent of your physical injuries since the level of bodily harm you sustain directly impacts how much you incur in medical bills, the ongoing treatment required, and time spent away from work. Moderate to severe injuries that require extensive or long-term care can result in a higher settlement payout.

Furthermore, if the injuries you suffered from the motorcycle accident result in long-term or permanent disability or disfigurement, your injury claim is likely to be significantly more than if you recovered to full health. However, if the injured party is determined to be partially at fault for the accident, their settlement claim will be reduced by the percent of liability. For example, if the court finds you 40% at fault, you can still recover up to 60% of your damages.

Other damages you can recover in addition to the costs of your medical expenses and property damage include lost wages and/or reduced earning capacity. You may also receive compensation for your physical pain, mental suffering, and other non-economic damages, such as reduced quality of life. Your settlement may be limited by the at-fault party’s maximum insurance payout unless other sources are found. You may also be able to file a claim with your own insurer.

FAQs

How Much Is the Average Motorcycle Accident Settlement?

There is no “average” settlement payout for motorcycle accidents in Sedona, AZ since each case has unique circumstances. Your potential compensation is influenced by the severity of your injuries, whether you’re determined to be partially liable for the accident, and the insurance policy of the at-fault party.

Additionally, the skill of your injury lawyer can have a significant impact on how much your settlement is. Experienced attorneys with strong negotiation and advocacy skills are more likely to obtain a fair settlement payout for you.

Who Is Responsible for Most Motorcycle Accidents?

Each case is different but in most motorcycle accidents, it’s the other driver who’s found to be primarily responsible for the incident. Motorists are less likely to notice or look out for motorcycle riders, leading to accidents.

Collisions are also likely to occur when the driver is distracted, drives recklessly, or ignores traffic laws and regulations, among other careless errors. Motorcycle accidents are more likely when either party is operating their vehicle while under the influence of drugs or alcohol.

What Should I Do After a Motorcycle Accident?

After a motorcycle accident, it’s advised that you get somewhere safe without leaving the scene and promptly call law enforcement. You should also exchange information with the other parties involved, such as contact info and insurance details.

After speaking to the police, you should seek medical attention even if you feel relatively well or your injuries seem minimal. Be sure to document any damaged property, injuries, and other relevant evidence before consulting with an injury lawyer.

How Do You Win a Motorcycle Injury Claim?

It’s never guaranteed that you will win an injury claim, but your strongest chances are with the help of a skilled injury attorney. Your lawyer investigates the details of your accident, collects evidence, and builds a compelling case for why you’re entitled to compensation.

The strength of the evidence available has a bearing on the strength of your injury claim. Your lawyer may employ proof such as the police report, your medical records, and eyewitness accounts of the accident.

Get the Compensation You’re Entitled to Receive

With the help of the professional injury lawyers at Glazer, Hammond & Smets, PLLC, you can feel confident about pursuing a compensatory settlement. Contact our office today to schedule a meeting with a qualified and experienced injury law attorney.