Pittsburgh Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Personal Injury Lawyers / Pittsburgh Personal Injury Lawyer / Pittsburgh Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

You need a Pittsburgh motorcycle accident lawyer who will fight for you

Pennsylvania is home to nearly 800,000 registered motorcycle riders. Unfortunately, there were more than 230 motorcycle crashes in Allegheny County alone. With less protection than that of a car or truck, motorcycle riders often suffer severe injuries when they’re hit by a car or involved in a crash. When that occurs, you will need the help of an experienced attorney in Pittsburgh to help you get compensation for your injuries while you concentrate on your recovery.

If you or someone you love suffered a catastrophic motorcycle crash, you need an attorney from Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys, who will deliver for you. If you’re ready to see the difference the Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys  can make in your case, schedule your free consultation today.

What Compensation is Available After a Motorcycle Accident in Pittsburgh?

It’s no surprise that it can be expensive for the injury victims. According to a recent study conducted in California, the average cost of hospital admissions for a non-helmeted rider involved in a motorcycle crash is approximately $17,704. This cost does not include lost wages and repair bills the injured rider would face after the incident.

With so many costs associated with a Pittsburgh motorcycle accident injury, it’s no surprise that you may be concerned about how you’re going to pay for everything. You may not receive a settlement offer from the insurance company that will cover all your expenses. This is where a claim could help you with the costs.

If you file a personal injury claim, you may receive the following compensation for your injuries:

• Medical expenses: Medical bills usually make up the bulk of your claim. They include but are not limited to doctor’s appointments, surgeries, lab results, medication, ER and hospital visits, physical therapy, and long-term care.
• Lost wages: If you missed time from work in the past or future because of your injuries, you may receive compensation to cover your lost pay.
• Loss of earning capacity: If the injuries force you to change careers, you could receive compensation that makes up the difference between your current salary and the salary you once had.
• Pain and suffering: Pain and suffering include the physical, emotional, and mental pain you experienced from the collision. This includes anxiety, depression, PTSD, loss of enjoyment of life, and loss of companionship.
• Wrongful death: If you lost a loved one in a collision, you do have the opportunity to recover compensation for any funeral and burial costs.

How Does Insurance Coverage Work for Motorcycle Accidents in Pittsburgh?

Insurance coverage for motorcycle accidents in Pittsburgh typically works similarly to other types of motor vehicle accidents, but there may be some specific considerations for motorcycles. Like all motor vehicles in Pennsylvania, motorcycles are required to have liability insurance coverage. This insurance helps cover damages and injuries to others if you are at fault in an accident. Liability insurance typically includes bodily injury liability coverage and property damage liability coverage.

Pennsylvania is a no-fault state, but motorcycle owners have the option to waive no-fault coverage. If you have chosen to waive no-fault coverage, you won’t have personal injury protection or PIP benefits available to you. However, if you have PIP coverage, it can help cover your medical expenses and lost wages regardless of who was at fault in the accident.

Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist Coverage is optional in Pennsylvania but highly recommended, especially for motorcycle riders. If you are involved in an accident with a driver who doesn’t have insurance or doesn’t have enough insurance to cover your damages, uninsured/underinsured motorist coverage can help compensate you for your injuries and property damage.

What Should I Do After a Motorcycle Accident to Protect My Personal Injury Claim?

If you’ve never been in a motor vehicle accident before, you may not know what you need to do after getting into an accident to protect your claim. Fortunately, our attorneys are here to help.

Get Medical Attention and Document your Damages

You can start immediately after the motorcycle accident by taking photos of the scene, collecting contact information of witnesses and those involved, and speaking with the police. You will also want to go to the hospital immediately to get checked out. Even if you don’t feel seriously injured, seeking medical attention after any motor vehicle accident is essential. You may often not experience pain until hours, if not days, following the crash.

In the days following the accident, log all your expenses. This includes any medical bills you received, a record of time off from work, and repair estimates. You will also want to get a copy of the police report once it is completed — not only is it important to know what happened but this document will be used by the insurance company to determine who is at fault.

Don’t Speak to the Defendant’s Insurance

You will start receiving phone calls from insurance companies wanting to know your side of the story. Remember, you must not speak with the other driver’s insurance company. If you find yourself conversing with the insurance adjuster, keep your comments as brief as possible and only discuss the facts. Do not mention how injured you are or what you did before the accident. And above all, do not have your conversation recorded.

Contact a Lawyer with Experience

Finally, speaking with an experienced Pittsburgh personal injury attorney as soon as possible is essential. Your attorney will be able to advise you on what your next steps should be and will negotiate with the insurance company on your behalf so you can receive the compensation you deserve following a motorcycle collision.

Why Are Motorcycle Accidents in Pittsburgh So Dangerous?

According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), there were 4,985 fatal motorcycle collisions last year. In other words, every single day, more than 13 motorcyclists crash and die on America’s streets, roads, and highways. Thousands more suffer serious injuries when motorcycles collide with cars, trucks, and SUVs. According to the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT), Pennsylvania has 825,898 licensed motorcyclists alone.

There are several reasons why Pennsylvania motorcycle riders face a greater risk of injury and wrongful death than other motorists:

• Many motorcyclists lack the proper training. According to the NHTSA, 29 percent of motorcyclists involved in fatal crashes were riding without valid motorcycle licenses.
• By design, motorcycles lack certain safety features. Unlike cars, trucks, and SUVs, motorcycles lack safety features like airbags, seatbelts, or doors to protect riders.
• Motorcyclists often ride without the proper gear. Unfortunately, the appropriate safety gear or clothing could have prevented riders’  injuries and deaths. Motorcyclists should always wear helmets, gloves, jackets, and long pants while riding.
• Motorcycles are more challenging to see than cars, trucks, buses, or SUVs. Because their size and because motorcyclists ride low to the ground, they are generally more difficult for other drivers to see.

Overview of Pennsylvania Motorcycle Laws that May Affect Your Claim

Helmet Laws: Pennsylvania has helmet laws that require motorcycle riders and passengers to wear helmets unless they are over 21 years old and have either two years of riding experience or have completed a motorcycle safety course.

Lane Splitting: Lane splitting, where motorcycles ride between lanes of slow-moving or stopped traffic, is illegal in Pennsylvania. This can impact liability and fault determination in motorcycle accidents.

Licensing: There are different types of motorcycle licenses available in Pennsylvania. A Class M license is the standard motorcycle license that allows individuals to operate motorcycles on public roads. To obtain a Class M license, applicants must pass a knowledge test, a skills test, and a vision screening. Additionally, applicants under 18 years old must complete a motorcycle safety course approved by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT).   Individuals who already hold a Pennsylvania driver’s license can add a Class M motorcycle endorsement to their license by passing a motorcycle knowledge test and a skills test. They may also be required to complete a motorcycle safety course, depending on their age.

Pennsylvania Motorcycle Safety Resources

In Pennsylvania, learning to ride your motorcycle safely is easy and accessible through PennDOT’s Pennsylvania Motorcycle Safety Program (PAMSP). The PAMSP course teaches motorcycle permit-holders everything they need to know about riding a bike. The course includes both a classroom component and a “skills” component, where experienced instructors will teach you how to ride in a safe and controlled setting. Best of all, after you complete the PAMSP Basic or Intermediate class, PennDOT will waive the skills test requirement for your motorcycle license. In addition, the course is a great way to lower your motorcycle insurance rate.

How Long Do I Have to File My Motorcycle Accident Case in Pittsburgh?

The time limits states set for filing cases are called “statutes of limitations.” These time limits vary both by state and by type of case. Pennsylvania’s statute of limitation for bringing a claim for motorcycle collision injuries is two years, measured by the crash date. If your loved one died in a tragic motorcycle collision and you want to bring a case on his or her behalf, the answer is slightly different. The statute of limitations is still two years, but courts measure the two years starting with the date of death.

However, every case is different, and depending on the facts of your accident, different rules may apply. To get the most accurate information about your lawsuit, you should speak to an experienced motorcycle attorney. Schedule your free consultation today to discuss your case with one of our award-winning car accident attorneys.

What Sets Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys Apart?

At Munley Law, we understand that choosing the right legal representation can make all the difference in the outcome of your case. Here are some key factors that set us apart and make us the top choice for motorcycle accident victims in Pittsburgh:

Proven Track Record of Success

With decades of experience and a track record of successful outcomes, Munley Law has earned a reputation as one of the leading personal injury firms in Pittsburgh and beyond. Our team of dedicated attorneys has secured millions of dollars in settlements and verdicts for our clients, helping them rebuild their lives after devastating motorcycle accidents.

Special Expertise in Motorcycle Accidents

Unlike general practice firms, Munley Law specializes in motorcycle accident cases. Our attorneys have in-depth knowledge of Pennsylvania’s motorcycle laws, insurance regulations, and the unique challenges faced by motorcycle riders. We leverage this expertise to provide personalized legal strategies tailored to the specific needs of each client.

Compassionate and Client-Centered Approach

At Munley Law, we prioritize the needs and well-being of our clients above all else. We understand the physical, emotional, and financial toll that motorcycle accidents can take on individuals and their families. That’s why we provide compassionate support and guidance every step of the way, ensuring our clients feel heard, valued, and empowered throughout the legal process.

Aggressive Advocacy and Litigation Skills

We are known for our fearless advocacy and relentless pursuit of justice on behalf of our clients. Whether negotiating with insurance companies or litigating in the courtroom, our attorneys are committed to fighting tirelessly for the maximum compensation our clients deserve. We leave no stone unturned in our pursuit of justice, holding negligent parties accountable for their actions.

No Fee Unless We Win

At Munley Law, we believe that 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 don’t pay any fees unless we win your case. Our commitment to this fee structure ensures that our clients can pursue justice without worrying about upfront costs or financial risk.

Recognition and Reputation

Our dedication to excellence has not gone unnoticed. Munley Law and our attorneys have been recognized by prestigious legal organizations and publications for our outstanding achievements in personal injury law. We are proud of our accolades, but our greatest satisfaction comes from the positive impact we have on the lives of our clients.

Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Accidents in Pittsburgh

Q: Who Can Be Held At Fault When For a Motorcycle Accident?

A: Motorcycle who has their case can be more complicated than first thought. Even though the driver or the motorcyclist is usually at fault, there are times when a third party is to blame. For example, if the crash was caused by a faulty part on the motorcycle and the manufacturer knew about the part, the manufacturer could be held responsible. The local or state government may also be to blame if dangerous road conditions led to the accident.

To prove who is to blame for your injuries, your motorcycle accident attorney will need to show the following:

• The person to blame had a duty to keep the injured motorcyclist from worsening. This is called “duty of care,” and the person is legally obligated to keep others safe when doing something that could hurt them.
• The person at fault broke the duty of care and hurt someone. For instance, a driver ran a red light and hit a motorcyclist head-on. Later, it was discovered that the driver had been texting when the motorcycle collision happened. The driver hurt the person who was hurt because they didn’t follow the rules of the road.
• The breach caused damages and injuries. Damages, in this case, mean any costs you have because of the incident. This included pain and suffering, medical bills, lost wages, property damage, and income loss.

Q: What Are the Common Types of Motorcycle Accidents in Pittsburgh?

A: Common types of motorcycle accidents in Pittsburgh include intersection collisions, lane changes, dooring accidents, unsafe left turns, speeding, loss of control, and distracted driving.

Q: How Much is My Motorcycle Accident Case Worth?

A: Every case is different, and the amount of compensation will depend on several things, so you should be wary of any attorney who tells you how much you will get too early in the process. At Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys, our experienced motorcycle collision attorneys will investigate your claim and negotiate with the insurance company for the maximum amount owed. Your motorcycle collision attorney will keep you updated on the negotiations and won’t accept a settlement offer without your permission.

Q: What Factors Influence the Compensation Amount in a Motorcycle Accident Case?

The amount of money you get from your motorcycle collision case will depend on how bad your injuries are, how much your hospital stays, surgeries, and any other medical care you need now or in the future will cost. It will also depend on how much time you have to miss from work and/or how the accident affects your ability to work in the future. Your compensation will also be based on how much pain and suffering the crash caused and will continue to cause you.

Q: Can a Motorcyclist be Blamed For a Pittsburgh Motorcycle Accident?

A: Short answer: Yes, a motorcyclist could be found to be at fault for the motorcycle accident. For example, if a motorcyclist was driving illegally in the middle of traffic and was hit by a car switching lanes, the motorcyclist could be found partly to blame for the accident.

According to Pennsylvania’s comparative negligence doctrine, if the person who was hurt was partly to blame for the accident, they can still get compensation for a lesser amount. To get money for damages, the person who was hurt must be found to be less than 50 percent at fault. The court will decide who is at fault.

Using the example from above, if the motorcyclist is found to be 20 percent responsible for the accident, they will only get 80 percent of the money they are owed.

Q: How Much Does it Cost to Hire an Experienced Pittsburgh Motorcycle Injury Lawyer?

At Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys, out motorcycle accident lawyers do not charge anything for our services unless we win your case. When we obtain a successful settlement or verdict on your behalf, we simply deduct our fee from the award. If we are unable to obtain compensation for you, you owe us nothing. This contingent fee agreement protects you from financial risks associated with pursuing legal action and gives everyone equal access to the best legal representation.

Q: How Do I Choose a Pittsburgh Motorcycle Accident Attorney to Represent Me?

A: Who you choose to represent you in your fight for compensation for your injuries makes a difference. To maximize your financial award, you want a motorcycle accident attorney who:

• Treats their clients like family.
• Has a reputation for being the best in the business.
• Wins BIG for motorcycle accident victims.

Get the justice, results, and maximum compensation that you deserve for your motorcycle crash injuries. For over 60 years, the Pittsburgh motorcycle accident attorney at Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys has been helping motorcycle injury victims throughout Allegheny County get compensation. We understand the Pittsburgh court system and will do whatever is needed to get the maximum amount for your injuries.

Contact Munley Law for a Free Case Review

Time is limited, so the sooner you contact an attorney, the quicker we can work on your case. Contact one of our motorcycle accident attorneys at Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys today for a free consultation. You don’t pay a fee until we win your case.

Munley Law Personal Injury Attorneys

510 Third Avenue
2nd Floor,
Pittsburgh, PA 15219
+14125345133