Were You Hurt in a Motorcycle Accident in Philadelphia? Contact Us for a Free Case Review.
When a motorcycle is involved in an accident with a car, SUV, or commercial vehicle, the impact on the motorcycle rider may be catastrophic. With no more to protect them than their clothing and perhaps a helmet, a motorcyclist is totally exposed to the surrounding environment and will suffer from the full impact of the motorcycle accident. Protect your rights and get fair compensation for your injuries with the help of an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer at Munley Law.
Insurance laws are different for motorcyclists than they are for drivers of other passenger vehicles. In addition, laws vary from state to state. Without an experienced and well-qualified motorcycle accident lawyer on your side, insurance companies will try to take advantage of you, hoping to get you to settle for far less than you deserve. You need a Philadelphia motorcycle accident lawyer to ensure insurance companies don’t lowball you.
$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
$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
The motorcycle accident attorneys at Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys get results. We know the ins and outs of Pennsylvania traffic laws as well as insurance company practices. We have been fighting for our clients for over 60 years, consistently winning large settlements and awards from motorcycle accidents. Our peers consistently select us as Best Lawyers in America, and many of our partners are board-certified by the National Board of Trial Advocacy.
Contact a Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys Philadelphia motorcycle accident lawyer now for a free evaluation of your case. Call, chat, or fill out an online form to see how we can help you.
How Can a Philadelphia Motorcycle Accident Attorney at Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys Help?
Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys has a long history of winning motorcycle accident cases. 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 Philadelphia motorcycle accident lawyer at Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys, we will thoroughly investigate your case.
Gathering Evidence
As part of the accident investigation process, it is important to review photos of the accident scene, identify key elements in the photos, 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.
Interviewing Eyewitnesses
When investigating an accident, eyewitness testimony can be critical in uncovering important information. Speaking with eyewitnesses is to gather their firsthand accounts of events and 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.
Reviewing Records
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 of these documents, you can better understand the events that took place and their impact on your physical well-being. Police reports, and medical records can often complement each other, with the police report providing context for your injuries and the medical records supporting the information found in the report. It’s crucial to thoroughly review both documents to build a strong case for any legal proceedings or insurance claims related to the accident.
Utilizing Our Network
At our firm, we understand the complexities of motorcycle accident lawsuits and the potential need for consultants and expert witnesses. With our extensive experience in handling such cases, we have the expertise to determine if utilizing a consultant or expert 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 expert witnesses, including financial, technical, and medical experts, ready to assist in your case. With their help, we can ensure that your case is backed by the necessary expertise and evidence to achieve a successful outcome.
Negotiating with the Insurance Company
When you’re facing a legal battle, dealing with insurance companies on your own can be overwhelming and stressful. That’s why our law firm is here to help. Our team of experienced attorneys will handle the communication and negotiation with the insurance company on your behalf, working tirelessly to secure the best possible outcome for you. With our knowledge and expertise in navigating the legal system, you can trust that we will fight for your rights and ensure you receive the compensation you deserve. Let us handle the details so you can focus on your well-being and progress. Contact us today, and let us take the weight off your shoulders.
When you hire our experienced team of motorcycle accident lawyers to work for you, you will have no out-of-pocket or upfront costs. Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys works on retainer. We only get paid when we win, and you receive a settlement or a jury award. Contact us now to see how we will fight for you if you are involved in a motorcycle accident.
What Do I Do If I Am Involved in a Motorcycle Accident?
If you were involved in a Philadelphia 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 taken care of, you can do a few things to strengthen your motorcycle accident case.
Document the scene of the accident with photos. Take photos of your vehicle. Take photos of 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 Philadelphia motorcycle accident attorney to advise you.
When you call Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys, 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. This means 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 motorcycle accident case is settled or a court award is made.
Common Motorcycle Accident Injuries in Philadelphia
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, it is essential for riders to take adequate safety measures. More common injuries from a motorcycle crash 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. Following 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.
What Compensation is Available After a Motorcycle Accident?
Each person’s situation and case is unique, so until we review the specifics of your motorcycle accident case, the Philadelphia motorcycle accident attorneys at Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys 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 injuries leave you unable to work for any period of time, you may be able to compensate for wages lost while you recover.
- Pain and suffering. Depending on the extent of your 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 injury and whether or not you can fully recover factor into any reward you may receive.
- Emotional suffering. This is another area of possible compensation. Emotional instability and mental anguish may be short, or even long-term effects of a motorcycle accident and may be cause for a monetary award.
- Disability and disfigurement. In some Philadelphia motorcycle 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.
Motorcycle Accidents in Philadelphia 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 is very different than driving a car. According to recent numbers from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Driver & Vehicle Services, there are 373,137 registered motorcycles in Pennsylvania and more than 798,764 licensed motorcyclists. However, the number of students who took a Motorcycle Safety Program is significantly lower, at 13,434.
- Motorcycle safety features: By design, motorcycles lack certain safety features. Unlike cars, trucks, and SUVs, motorcycles 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 the proper gear. Even wearing proper safety gear or clothing could have prevented motorcyclists’ injuries and deaths in many accidents. You should always wear a helmet, gloves, jacket, and long pants when driving 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, so they are harder for other drivers to see on the road. Additionally, many drivers do not think to keep an eye out for bikers.
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 what 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 she 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 Philadelphia 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 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 the compensation you deserve, 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 Personal Injury Attorneys for free.
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 that is most visible to other drivers. If you’re not sure you can be seen, it’s safest to assume you cannot and honk.
- 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 19 states require all riders to wear helmets, eighteen states require riders aged 17 and under to wear helmets, and nine 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 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. 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 passenger with someone who meets these conditions, you’re not obligated to wear a helmet.
Why Work With Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys?
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 Personal Injury Attorneys 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 Personal Injury Attorneys is here to help. Contact our Philadelphia motorcycle accident lawyer today for a free consultation. Choose carefully. There is a difference.
Personal Injury Claims We Handle in Philadelphia, PA:
- Philadelphia truck accident lawyer
- Philadelphia car accident attorney
- Philadelphia workers’ compensation attorney
- Philadelphia rideshare accident lawyer
- Philadelphia Uber accident lawyer
- Philadelphia Lyft accident lawyer
- Philadelphia bicycle accident lawyer
- Philadelphia motorcycle accident attorney
- Philadelphia pedestrian accident lawyer
- Philadelphia medical malpractice attorney
- Philadelphia nursing home abuse lawyer
- Philadelphia premises liability attorney
- Philadelphia product liability attorney
- Philadelphia slip and fall lawyer
- Philadelphia wrongful death lawyer
- Philadelphia birth injury lawyer
- Philadelphia brain injury lawyer
- Philadelphia catastrophic injury lawyer
- Philadelphia bus accident lawyer
- Philadelphia construction accident attorney
Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys
1617 John F Kennedy Blvd
Suite 1690,
Philadelphia, PA 19103
(215) 515-7747