Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Pennsylvania

Motorcycle riders are some of the most vulnerable people on the road. When drivers don’t safely share the road with bikers, the consequences can be devastating. Because motorcycles are smaller than cars, they can be easily missed in a driver’s blind spot. And, without any physical protection from the impact of a crash, the injuries can be life-altering. If someone else’s negligence caused you to suffer serious injuries, the Pennsylvania motorcycle accident lawyers at Munley Law can help make things right.

Start with a no-obligation consultation to discuss your case and understand your rights and options. Munley Law operates on a contingency fee basis, meaning you pay nothing unless we win your case.

$32 Million Wrongful Death

$26 Million Truck Accident

$17.5 Million Car Accident

$12 Million Product Liability

$9 Million Truck Accident

$8 Million Truck Accident

$7.5 Million Auto Accident

$6.9 Million Garbage Truck Accident

$6.5 Million Traumatic Brain Injury

$5 Million Medical Malpractice

$5 Million Bus Accidents

How Often Do Motorcycle Accidents Occur in Pennsylvania?

There are more than 794,000 registered motorcyclists in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), per vehicle miles traveled in 2021, motorcyclists were about 24 times more likely than passenger vehicle occupants to die in a motor vehicle crash. They were four times more likely to be injured.

While motorcyclists make up only a small percentage of Pennsylvania motorists, they account for a larger portion of people injured and killed on the road. In 2022, motorcycles were involved in just 3% of total crashes but 19% of fatal crashes. Speed, aggressive driving, distraction, and driving under the influence of alcohol are the leading causes of motorcycle crashes on Pennsylvania roads.

What Are the Common Injuries of Motorcycle Accidents?

Serious motorcycle accidents can result in a range of injuries, from minor to life-threatening. The lack of physical protection for motorcycle riders compared to passenger vehicles often means motorcyclists sustain more severe injuries. Here are some common injuries sustained in motorcycle accidents:

Road Rash: Road rash occurs when a motorcycle crash victim’s skin scrapes across the road’s surface, leading to abrasions. Severe cases can result in infections, require skin grafts, and leave permanent scarring.

Head Injuries and Traumatic Brain Injuries (TBIs): Head injuries are among the most serious injuries motorcyclists can sustain, especially if they’re not wearing a helmet. Traumatic brain injuries can range from mild concussions to more severe brain damage and can have lasting effects on an individual’s cognitive, physical, and emotional abilities.

Spinal Cord Injuries: Spinal cord injuries can result from the impact of a motorcycle crash, potentially leading to partial or complete paralysis. The severity depends on the area of the spine that’s injured and the extent of the injury.

Fractures and Broken Bones: Motorcyclists often sustain broken bones or fractures due to the force of the collision. Commonly affected areas include the legs, arms, ribs, and pelvis. Some fractures can be complex, requiring surgical intervention and prolonged rehabilitation.

Internal Injuries: The impact of a motorcycle accident can cause internal injuries, including internal bleeding, punctured lungs, or damage to internal organs. These injuries can be life-threatening and require immediate medical attention.

Neck and Back Injuries: The force of a motorcycle accident can cause various neck and back injuries, from whiplash and soft tissue injuries to herniated discs and spinal fractures. These injuries can result in chronic pain and disability.

Disfigurement and Amputation: Severe motorcycle accidents can lead to disfigurement and the need for amputation of limbs, either due to the initial trauma or subsequent medical complications. Such injuries profoundly impact the victim’s quality of life and ability to perform daily activities.

Psychological Injuries: Beyond physical injuries, motorcycle accident victims often experience psychological distress, including post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, and anxiety. The emotional impact of the accident and the injuries sustained can be as debilitating as physical injuries.

Recovering from motorcycle accident injuries often requires extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and sometimes long-term care.

How a Pennsylvania Motorcycle Accident Lawyer at Munley Law Can Help You

At Munley Law, our dedicated team of Pennsylvania motorcycle accident lawyers is committed to providing unparalleled support and advocacy for motorcycle accident victims.

Investigation

First, our legal team will conduct a detailed investigation into the circumstances surrounding your motorcycle accident. We will gather evidence such as accident reports, witness statements, medical records, and any available surveillance footage to build a strong case on your behalf. By thoroughly analyzing the facts of the accident, we can determine liability and identify all potentially responsible parties.

Dealing with Insurance

Next, we will handle all communication with the insurance companies on your behalf. Dealing with insurance companies can be daunting, but our experienced attorneys are adept at negotiating with them to ensure you receive fair compensation. We will handle all communications with insurance adjusters, protecting you from any attempts to minimize or deny your claim. We aim to secure a settlement that fully compensates you for your injuries, damages, and losses without needing a lengthy court battle.

Representing you in Court

If a fair settlement cannot be reached through negotiations, our seasoned litigators are prepared to take your case to court. We will aggressively advocate for your rights in the courtroom, presenting compelling evidence and arguments to support your claim. With our proven track record of success in litigation, you can trust that we will fight tirelessly to achieve the best possible outcome for you.

No-Fee Promise

At Munley Law, everyone deserves access to high-quality legal representation, regardless of their financial situation. That’s why we operate on a contingency fee basis, which means you pay nothing upfront and only owe us a fee if we secure compensation for you. This fee structure allows you to pursue your claim confidently, knowing there are no out-of-pocket costs to worry about.

Navigating the aftermath of a motorcycle accident can be overwhelming, but you don’t have to go through it alone. Our compassionate attorneys will provide you with guidance and support at every step of the legal process. We will keep you informed of your rights and options, answer any questions you may have, and provide personalized attention to your case.

How to File a Motorcycle Accident Lawsuit: Steps to Take

Here’s a general overview of how to file a motorcycle accident lawsuit:

Seek Medical Attention: The priority after a motorcycle accident is to seek medical attention for any injuries, no matter how minor they may seem. Your health and well-being should always come first. Failing to seek treatment for your injuries can not only hurt your legal claim but, more importantly, it can cause your injuries to worsen or cause complications.
Document the Accident: If possible, gather evidence at the accident scene, including taking photos of the vehicles involved, the surrounding area, and any visible injuries. Obtain contact information from witnesses who may have seen the accident occur. Contact the police at the accident scene to ensure a police accident report is made.
Notify Relevant Parties: Notify your insurance company of the accident as soon as possible. However, refrain from providing a statement to the other party’s insurance or accepting any settlement offers before consulting with an attorney.
Consult with a Motorcycle Accident Attorney: Contact a motorcycle accident attorney immediately. Even if you don’t have all the information yet, it’s important to consult with an experienced motorcycle accident attorney who can assess the circumstances of your case and advise you on your legal rights and options. They can help determine if you have grounds for a lawsuit and guide you through the legal process.
Investigation and Preparation: Your attorney will thoroughly investigate the accident, gathering evidence such as police reports, witness statements, medical records, and other relevant documentation. They will also assess the extent of your damages, including medical expenses, lost wages, and pain and suffering.
Demand Letter and Negotiation: Before filing a lawsuit, your attorney may attempt to negotiate a settlement with the at-fault party’s insurance company. They will present a demand letter outlining the damages you seek and attempt to reach a fair settlement that adequately compensates you for your losses.
Filing the Lawsuit: If a settlement cannot be reached through negotiation, your attorney will file a motorcycle accident lawsuit in the appropriate court. The complaint will outline the details of the accident, the damages you seek, and the legal basis for your claim.
Discovery Process: Once the lawsuit is filed, both parties will engage in the discovery process, exchanging information and evidence relevant to the case. This may include written interrogatories, depositions, and requests for documents.
Pre-Trial Motions and Settlement Negotiations: Both parties may file pre-trial motions before the trial date. Additionally, settlement negotiations may continue throughout this process to reach a resolution without needing a trial.
Trial: If the case does not settle, it will proceed to trial. During the trial, both sides present evidence, call witnesses and argue before a judge or jury. The judge or jury will then determine liability and assess damages.

How Does Insurance Play a Part in My Motorcycle Accident Claim in Pennsylvania?

When another driver in Pennsylvania injures motorcyclists, navigating the insurance landscape can seem daunting. The specific coverages that come into play will depend on the accident details and the insurance policies held by both parties involved. Here’s a focused look at how insurance coverage applies in such scenarios:

Liability Insurance of the At-Fault Driver

The at-fault driver’s liability insurance is the primary source of compensation for motorcyclists injured by another driver. This coverage is designed to pay for bodily injury and property damage sustained by the other party (in this case, the motorcyclist) due to the at-fault driver’s negligence. Pennsylvania law requires all drivers to carry minimum liability insurance. Still, given the potential for serious injuries in motorcycle accidents, the at-fault driver’s minimum coverage may not fully cover the motorcyclist’s damages.

Uninsured and Underinsured Motorist Coverage (UM/UIM)

If the at-fault driver lacks sufficient insurance coverage or is uninsured, the injured motorcyclist’s uninsured and underinsured motorist coverage can provide vital financial protection. UM coverage kicks in if the at-fault driver has no insurance. In contrast, UIM coverage applies when the at-fault driver’s insurance is insufficient to cover the full extent of the motorcyclist’s damages. Although not mandatory in Pennsylvania, this coverage is highly recommended for motorcyclists for added security.

What Compensation is Available in a PA Motorcycle Accident Case?

Motorcycle accident injuries come with a series of unexpected costs. As a victim of someone else’s negligence, you shouldn’t be responsible for these costs. A motorcycle accident lawsuit can help you recover the compensation you need to cover your accident-related expenses and make you whole again.

In a personal injury case, there are typically two types of compensation: economic damages and non-economic damages.

Economic damages

Economic damages include expenses like medical bills, future therapy, lost income, lost earning power, adaptive equipment, and more.

Non-economic damages

Non-economic damages include pain and suffering, mental anguish, emotional distress, and altered quality of life.

An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer will work with medical professionals and economic experts to calculate the maximum value of your damages and negotiate with the insurance company to get every dollar you deserve.

How Much Money Will I Receive for a Motorcycle Accident?

The amount of money you can receive for a motorcycle accident depends on various factors, including the extent of your injuries, the impact on your ability to work, the accident details, and the insurance policies’ coverage limits.

The severity and extent of your injuries significantly impact the compensation you may receive. This includes not only the initial medical expenses but also ongoing treatment costs, rehabilitation expenses, and potential long-term care needs.

If your injuries result in temporary or permanent disability, you may be entitled to compensation for lost wages and diminished earning capacity. This includes considering how the accident affects your ability to perform your job duties and earn income in the future.

The insurance policies of both parties involved in the accident, including you and the other drivers, will impact the compensation available. This includes liability coverage limits, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage, and any additional coverage options that may apply.

Finally, having the right legal representation can significantly impact the outcome of your case. A skilled motorcycle accident attorney can help maximize your compensation by negotiating with insurance companies, gathering evidence, and advocating for your rights in court if necessary.

Can I Still Receive Compensation If I Was Partially At Fault?

Yes, under Pennsylvania’s comparative negligence laws, you can still recover damages if you were partially at fault, as long as your degree of fault is not more than 50%. However, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of fault in the accident. For example, if you are deemed 30% at fault for a motorcycle crash, the compensation you are entitled to will be reduced by 30%.

Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Accidents in PA

Are Motorcycle Helmets Required in Pennsylvania?

Pennsylvania law mandates motorcycle helmets for riders under 21, riders with a learner’s permit, and those who have held their license for less than two years unless they have completed a motorcycle safety training course approved by PennDOT or the Motorcycle Safety Foundation. Motorcycle passengers over 21 are not required to wear a helmet.

While helmet use is not mandated by law for all riders, it is one of the biggest factors determining whether a motorcyclist will survive a crash. Noncompliance with helmet laws does not remove your right to sue the at-fault driver for damages, but it may affect your overall compensation.

How Long Do I Have to File a Lawsuit For My Motorcycle Accident?

Pennsylvania’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is generally two years from the date of the accident. Therefore, initiating legal proceedings long before this deadline expires is important to preserve your right to compensation.

What Are My Rights If I Was Injured as a Motorcycle Passenger?

If you were injured as a motorcycle passenger in an accident, you can seek compensation for your injuries and losses. Depending on the circumstances of the crash, you may be able to seek compensation from the driver of another vehicle or the operator of the motorcycle. A Pennsylvania motorcycle accident attorney can help you determine who was at fault for the crash and what compensation is available.

What If I Was Hit By a Truck or Commercial Vehicle?

Collisions involving motorcycles, large trucks, or commercial vehicles are significantly more complicated – and often more serious – than crashes between motorcycles and passenger cars. For this kind of case, you’ll need a specific type of lawyer with a specific focus and experience with truck accidents. The Pennsylvania motorcycle accident attorneys at Munley Law have devoted much of our practice to tractor-trailer and commercial truck accidents. We hold leadership positions in the American Association for Justice Trucking Litigation Group, the Academy of Truck Accident Attorneys, the American Interstate Trucking Lawyers Association, and more.

Contact a PA Motorcycle Accident Lawyer at Munley Law

Since 1959, people in Pennsylvania have turned to Munley Law for help in their time of need. With over 60 years of experience and a long track record of success, Munley Law has become one of the nation’s leading personal injury law firms. Our mission is a promise to fight tirelessly for the injured and to hold responsible parties accountable for their actions.

Contact us today for a free case review. We will answer your questions, review the details of your situation, and advise you about how to proceed. If you choose to have us represent you, we will get to work right away and only get paid if we win your case.

Pennsylvania Motorcycle Accident Lawyer