Philadelphia Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

A Philadelphia motorcycle accident lawyer at Munley Law knows that collisions between motorcycles and larger vehicles often result in catastrophic injuries for riders. With only clothing and perhaps a helmet for protection, motorcyclists are completely vulnerable to the full force of impact in a crash involving cars, SUVs, or commercial vehicles.

The aftermath of an accident brings unique legal challenges. Without experienced legal representation, insurance companies may exploit these complexities, pressuring injured riders to accept settlements before seeking independent legal advice.

For 65 years, the motorcycle accident attorneys at Munley Law have successfully fought for riders’ rights. Our deep understanding of Pennsylvania traffic laws and insurance practices has helped us secure substantial client settlements and awards. Our professionalism is recognized by peers and many of our partners hold board certification from the National Board of Trial Advocacy.

Don’t let insurance companies undervalue your claim. Contact Munley Law today for a free case evaluation. Call, chat, or submit our online form to learn how we can help protect your rights and secure fair compensation for your accident injuries.

What a Philadelphia Motorcycle Accident Attorney Can Do For Injury Victims

Munley Law has a long history of winning accident cases in Philadelphia. We know how insurance companies operate and their strategies to pay the lowest possible award. Insurers want to settle motorcycle accident lawsuits to avoid giving accident victims access to awards from sympathetic juries.

When you hire a motorcycle accident lawyer at Munley Law, we will thoroughly investigate your case. As part of the accident investigation process, it is important to review photos of the accident scene, identify key elements in the images, analyze the damage to vehicles and property, and evaluate the severity of injuries. In addition, if traffic or security camera footage is available, it should be reviewed and analyzed. This involves identifying cameras in the area, examining footage for relevant information, and analyzing the movements of vehicles and people captured in the footage. These steps are vital in piecing together the events leading up to the accident and determining the cause.

When investigating an accident, eyewitness testimony can be critical in uncovering important information. Speaking with eyewitnesses to gather their firsthand accounts of events will help us gain insight into what occurred. We will take detailed notes or record the interviews to ensure we have an accurate summary of their recollections. We will then analyze the information and determine how best to use it when crafting your case. From there, we will follow up with the eyewitnesses as needed and ultimately will have a better understanding of the situation at hand.

Following an accident, the two most important pieces of documentation are the police report and your medical records. The police report serves as the official record of what happened during the accident, providing details such as location, date, and parties involved. On the other hand, your medical records serve as the official record of your injuries sustained from the accident. By examining both documents, you can better understand the events and their impact on your physical well-being. The police report and medical records can often complement each other, with the police report providing context for your injuries and the medical records supporting the information in the report. It’s critical to your case that we thoroughly review both documents to build a strong case for any legal proceedings or insurance claims related to the accident.

At our firm, we understand the complexities of accident lawsuits and the potential need for consultants and witnesses. With our extensive experience in handling such cases, we have the expertise to determine if utilizing a consultant or professional witness would benefit your case. These professionals are crucial in providing specialized knowledge and conducting research and analysis to support your claim. They offer objective opinions and recommendations and are prepared to testify in legal proceedings if necessary. Our firm has a well-established network of witnesses, including financial, technical, and medical experts, ready to assist in your case. With their help, our personal injury lawyers can ensure that your case is backed by the necessary expertise and evidence to achieve a successful outcome.

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What to Do Following a Motorcycle Crash in Philly

If you were involved in a motorcycle accident, there are things you need to do promptly to preserve your case. Immediately get medical treatment and take care of your health needs. Once this is resolved, you can do a few things to strengthen your accident case.

Document the accident scene with photos. Take photos of your vehicle and your injuries. Make sure you or the police get statements and contact information for any eyewitnesses.

Your next priority should be to consult with a motorcycle accident lawyer. Insurance coverage for motorcycles is different from car insurance. You need a motorcycle accident attorney to advise you.

When you call Munley Law, our Philadelphia motorcycle accident attorneys will provide a free consultation. We will advise you on how to proceed because we work on a contingency basis. You will have no upfront or out-of-pocket costs when you hire us. We do this for all motorcycle accidents. We cover all costs of building and defending your case, and we don’t get paid until your accident case is settled or a court award is made.

Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Motorcycle crashes can have devastating impacts, causing a wide range of injuries that can vary in severity. These injuries can have long-term effects on the rider’s health and, in the most severe cases, may even result in permanent disability or death. Due to the inherent risks involved in riding a motorcycle, riders need to take adequate safety measures while on the road. More common injuries from a motorcycle crashes are:

Traumatic brain injuries (TBI) can have severe and long-lasting effects on an individual’s physical, emotional, and cognitive well-being. Even if there are no visible signs of injury, a TBI can occur, making it difficult to diagnose and treat. The recovery process can be lengthy, requiring extensive medical treatment, rehabilitation, and support from loved ones. If you or someone you know has suffered a TBI, seeking medical attention is crucial, and it’s essential to be patient with the recovery process. Additionally, preventive measures are crucial to avoid such injuries.

Broken bones are common after a crash, and typical symptoms include swelling, bruising, and difficulty moving the affected area. Seeking medical attention is essential if you suspect you have a broken bone. Treatment may require immobilization, surgery, or other forms of treatment. Not treating a fracture promptly can lead to complications such as improper healing, nerve damage, and infection. Recovery time for a broken bone can vary depending on the severity and location of the fracture. It’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions and allow enough time to heal fully.

Spinal cord injuries are life-changing events that can result in full or partial paralysis. This type of injury can impact an individual’s physical, emotional, and financial well-being. It affects their ability to move and function, leading to significant medical expenses and a need for ongoing care and support. Additionally, these injuries can have a lasting psychological impact, causing feelings of grief, anger, and depression.

Internal bleeding can be a severe and potentially life-threatening condition that can lead to organ damage and other complications if left untreated. Symptoms may include bruising, dizziness, and weakness. It’s important to note that not all cases present with apparent symptoms. If you suspect you or a loved one may be experiencing internal bleeding, seeking medical attention immediately is crucial. Prompt diagnosis and treatment can help prevent further complications and improve the chances of a full recovery. Early detection and treatment can save lives when it comes to internal bleeding.

Disfiguring injuries, such as loss of limbs, major burns, and road rash, can be life-altering, often requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation. These types of injuries cause physical pain and trauma, and they can impact a person’s quality of life and their ability to work and engage in everyday activities.

Compensation Available in a Philadelphia Motorcycle Accident

Each person’s situation and case is unique, so until we review the specifics of your accident case, the motorcycle accident attorneys at Munley Law cannot provide details of how much compensation you may receive for your claim. We can, however, help you understand the categories in which you may be eligible to collect.

• Medical expenses, both past and ongoing. You may be fully compensated for all medical care associated with the motorcycle accident, including but not limited to ambulance and emergency care, hospitalization, surgery, doctor’s bills, medical equipment, therapy, and prescription medication.
• Lost wages. If your motorcycle accident injuries leave you unable to work for any period, you may be able to get compensation for wages lost while you recover.
• Pain and suffering. Depending on the extent of injuries, motorcycle accident victims may be compensated for the pain and suffering they incur as a result of their accident. Factors such as the severity of the motorcycle injury and whether or not you can fully recover factor into any reward you may receive.
• Emotional suffering. This is another area where compensation may be possible. Emotional instability and mental anguish, whether short-term or long-term, can result from a motorcycle accident and may justify a monetary award.

Disability and disfigurement. In some accidents, the victim may sustain permanent disability and disfigurement that can result in a lifetime of physical and emotional pain and suffering. Further, these injuries can result in an inability to care for oneself independently.

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Motorcycle Accidents in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Are Dangerous

We all know how dangerous it can be to drive in Philadelphia, let alone ride along on a motorcycle. Philadelphia is known for some dangerous roadways, from the busy highways of the Schuylkill Expressway and the Blue Route to Broad Street and Roosevelt Boulevard. Unfortunately, Philadelphia continues to have one of the highest traffic fatality rates among similarly sized cities. So it’s no wonder the number of motorcycle crash fatalities in the city has totaled almost 1,000 in the last five years, according to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.

There are a variety of reasons Philadelphia motorcycle drivers face greater risks of injury and wrongful death than other drivers on the road:

• Lack of proper training: Driving a motorcycle differs greatly from driving a car. According to recent numbers from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Driver & Vehicle Services, there are 354,866 registered motorcycles in Pennsylvania and 794,163 licensed motorcyclists. However, the number of students who took a Motorcycle Safety Program is significantly lower, at 15,523.
• Motorcycle safety features: Motorcycles lack certain safety features by design. Unlike cars, trucks, and SUVs, they do not have safety features that prevent injuries, such as airbags and seat belts, let alone doors or roofs.
• Inadequate gear: Motorcyclists often ride without proper safety gear. Wearing the right gear could have prevented serious injuries or even fatalities in many accidents. You should always wear a helmet, gloves, a jacket, and long pants when riding a motorcycle.
• Visibility: Motorcycles are harder to spot on the road than cars, trucks, buses, or SUVs. Motorcyclists are smaller and lower to the ground, making them harder for other drivers to see. On top of that, many drivers simply don’t make a habit of watching for motorcyclists.

What Are the Leading Causes of Philadelphia Motorcycle Accidents?

At Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys, we are experienced personal injury lawyers who represent clients in cases involving all types of serious motorcycle accidents. If you are in need of an injury lawyer or need to file a wrongful death case on behalf of a loved one, we can use our experience to help you seek maximum compensation for your family’s accident-related losses. Contact us today for a free consultation about any accident you experience while riding a motorcycle involving:

• Treacherous weather conditions, including fog, freezing rain, snow, sleet, or rain
• Other dangerous road conditions, such as defects, debris, or temporary construction work zone hazards like metal plates or uneven pavement
• Drowsy or distracted driving
• Drunk driving
• Careless driving, for instance, failure to stop or yield
• Following too closely (tailgating)
• Intersection collision
• Merging without looking
• Motorcycle or passenger vehicle defect
• Sideswipe or T-bone
• Speeding
• Lane splitting or sharing
• A car or truck turning into the path of an approaching motorcycle

Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Accidents in Philadelphia

How Do You Prove Negligence in Philadelphia Motorcycle Accident Cases?

When another driver acts in a careless or reckless way that causes you to suffer injuries, this is known as negligence. The burden of proving this negligence is required to recover fair compensation for your personal injury. The four elements of negligence are:

• Duty of care: The driver had a responsibility to behave in a reasonable way to prevent an accident and keep you safe.
• Breach of duty: The driver failed to do what they needed to do.
• Causation: This failure caused your accident and injuries.
• Damages: You suffered physical injuries as well as financial damages.

Negligence in these examples would allow a personal injury attorney to hold the driver liable for your economic and non-economic damages. This is why it is imperative to talk to our motorcycle accident lawyers before deciding how to handle the accident.

How Long Do I Have to File a Motorcycle Accident Claim in Philadelphia?

In Pennsylvania, you have a period of two years to file a personal injury claim. However, it is important to note that the longer you wait to file a lawsuit, the more difficult it can become to prove who is at fault. This is because evidence may become lost or destroyed, and witnesses may forget important details over time. Therefore, it is highly recommended that you speak with a reputable Philadelphia personal injury lawyer as soon as possible after the incident. Taking prompt action can increase your chances of recovering compensation for your injuries, medical bills, lost wages, and other related expenses. A skilled attorney can help you navigate the complex legal process, gather evidence, and build a strong case on your behalf.

How Much is My Philly Motorcycle Lawsuit Worth?

To determine what kind of settlement you can expect after an accident, it’s important that we first investigate a range of factors, including the extent of the injuries sustained, medical expenses, lost wages, future expenses, and the pain and suffering endured. To ensure you receive appropriate compensation according to Pennsylvania law, hiring an experienced lawyer who will conduct a thorough investigation and never advise you to accept a settlement that’s less than what you’re owed is essential. Remember that every case is unique, so the best way to learn about your legal options and potential compensation is to speak with an attorney at Munley Law.

How Can a Motorcyclist Protect Themselves From an Accident?

It’s imperative that motorcyclists take precautions when on the road. Motorcycle riders are more susceptible to serious injuries without safety features and the size of a car to protect them.

• Wear protective clothing. This includes long pants and sleeves made of thick, protective material, as well as gloves, eye protection, and durable boots that cover your ankles.
• Be seen. Bright colors and reflective elements on your clothing and bike help motorcycle riders stay visible on the road. Use your headlights day and night and ride in the lane section most visible to other drivers. If you’re not sure you can be seen, it’s safest to assume you cannot.
• Always wear a full-face helmet. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, helmets have proven to be 37 percent effective in preventing deaths and 69 percent effective in preventing brain injuries. However, even considering those statistics, only 18 states require all riders to wear helmets, 18 states require riders aged 17 and under to wear helmets, and 10 states require riders aged 20 and younger to wear helmets.
• Be alert. Prepare for sudden lane changes and swerves from distracted drivers on the road that can cause a motorcycle accident injury. Also, watch out for debris like patches of sand, potholes, railroad tracks, and other road hazards.
• Beware of intersections. Half of all motorcycle accidents occur at intersections, with motorists turning left in front of you being the most common cause. This can cause catastrophic injuries.
• Avoid Lane Splitting. While it may seem tempting to ride a motorcycle between lanes of traffic or share a lane with another vehicle, known as lane splitting, it is both illegal in Pennsylvania and extremely unsafe.
• Never drink or speed. More than 40 percent of motorcycle riders who die in single-vehicle accidents are under the influence of alcohol, and speed is at play in over 1/3 of fatal crashes.
• Avoid bad weather. Study safe ways to ride on the road in the rain, wind, or whatever weather Mother Nature throws at you.

Does PA Motorcycle Law Require Me to Wear a Helmet?

According to Pennsylvania law, wearing a motorcycle helmet is mandatory to protect your head. The helmet you choose must meet specific standards set by the government. You must also wear eye protection unless your motorcycle has an enclosed cab. The government has the authority to approve or deny helmets and eye protection, and they have established regulations regarding the acceptable type of equipment. However, there are a few exceptions to these rules in Pennsylvania. If you’re riding a three-wheeled motorcycle with a cab, or if you’re over 21 and have been licensed for at least two years or have completed a safety course, you’re not required to wear a helmet. Similarly, if you’re over 21 and traveling as a motorcycle passenger with someone who meets these conditions, you’re not obligated to wear a helmet.

Why Work With Our Philadelphia Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Who you choose to represent you makes a difference. To maximize your financial award, you want a team of Philadelphia motorcycle accident lawyers who treat their clients like family and win BIG for motorcycle accident victims.

Munley Law gets results. Call, chat, or fill in our online contact form for a free evaluation of your case. We have won large settlements and jury awards for others involved in motorcycle accidents.

If you were injured in a motorcycle accident in Philadelphia and are not sure what to do next, Munley Law is here to help. Contact our Philadelphia motorcycle accident lawyer today for a free consultation. Choose carefully. There is a difference.

Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys

1617 John F Kennedy Blvd
Suite 1690,
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 515-7747