Pittston Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Driving a motorcycle puts you at an increased risk of serious injury compared to other car accident victims due to the size of the motorcycle versus a standard passenger vehicle. One wrong move by another driver can cause you to face lifelong consequences. This is when you need an experienced Pittston motorcycle accident lawyer.

From handling the insurance company, negotiating a settlement, and securing compensation, motorcycle accident victims can’t afford to be without legal representation. For a no-obligation, free consultation, contact the Pittston motorcycle accident lawyers of Munley Law.

What Are the Causes of Pittston Motorcycle Accidents?

Motorcycle accidents in Pittston can result from various factors. Understanding these causes is essential to the legal consequences when pursuing compensation after an accident.

Driver Error and Negligence

One of the leading causes of motorcycle accidents in Pittston is driver error or negligence. This includes speeding, failing to yield, distracted driving, and not observing traffic signals. Car drivers often fail to notice motorcyclists because they are smaller, leading to dangerous situations, especially at intersections.

When it comes to motorcycle accidents involving other drivers, T-bone collisions caused by left turns are the most common cause of motorcycle accidents, as the driver may not have been able to see the motorcyclist.

Hazardous Road Conditions

Pittston’s road conditions can also contribute to motorcycle accidents. Potholes, uneven road surfaces, inadequate signage, and poorly designed intersections can be particularly hazardous for motorcyclists.

While passenger vehicles and large vehicles may not have issues traversing roadways with defects, for motorcyclists, it can quickly become dangerous.

Poor Weather Conditions

Weather conditions such as rain, fog, ice, and snow can significantly increase the risk of motorcycle accidents. When a motorcyclist is not experienced in driving in changing weather, slippery roads, reduced traction, and poor visibility can lead to accidents.

Mechanical Failures and Product Malfunctions

Motorcycles that experience mechanical failures can also cause accidents. Brake failures, tire blowouts, or engine problems can lead to collisions with other drivers. Because of this, regular maintenance and safety checks are vital to prevent such issues.

Interactions with Larger Vehicles

Larger vehicles on the roads pose a significant risk to motorcyclists, too. Accidents often occur when truck or bus drivers fail to spot motorcycles in their blind spots, especially when making turns. These accidents can be severe and even fatal due to the size disparity between motorcycles and larger vehicles.

Influence of Alcohol and Drugs

Impaired driving is a significant cause of motorcycle accidents. Both motorcyclists and other vehicle drivers under the influence of alcohol or drugs can cause collisions due to reduced reaction time.

Reckless Riding and Speeding

Reckless riding practices such as speeding, weaving through traffic, and not adhering to road rules contribute to motorcycle accidents, hurting all parties involved.

Lack of Protective Gear

Not wearing the proper protective gear may not cause an accident, but it can make a collision much more severe. It can also have legal ramifications in some states. For example, in Pennsylvania, anyone under 21 who operates or rides a motorcycle must wear protective headgear or complete a motorcycle safety course by PennDOT or the Motorcycle Safety Foundation.

For those involved in motorcycle accidents in Pittston, knowing the underlying cause is essential when seeking legal representation. With its expertise in motorcycle accident cases, Munley Law can provide invaluable assistance in navigating the complexities of such collisions.

What Are the Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents in Pittston?

Motorcycle accidents often result in a range of serious injuries, some of which can have long-term or even life-altering consequences. In 2020 alone, over 82,000 motorcycle riders sustained injuries in collisions. Motorcycles lack structural protection compared to cars and trucks, making riders more vulnerable to automobile crashes.

Head and Brain Injuries

One of the most severe injuries from motorcycle accidents is head trauma, including traumatic brain injuries (TBIs). Even with a helmet, riders can suffer concussions or severe brain damage, leading to long-term cognitive, physical, and emotional impairments.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Spinal injuries are also common in motorcycle wrecks. Spinal cord injuries range from herniated discs to spinal cord damage, potentially resulting in paralysis and lifelong disability.

Broken Bones and Fractures

Because of the force of impact during a motorcycle crash, many collisions lead to broken bones and fractures. The most common are breaks to the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis. These injuries can require extensive medical treatment, including surgery and physical therapy, long after the motorcycle accident occurred.

Road Rash

If riders aren’t wearing protective clothing, they are more likely to sustain road rash if involved in a crash. Road rash is more than just cuts and bruises; it can also lead to severe skin abrasions that may need skin grafting and can lead to infections if not treated properly.

Internal Injuries

Internal injuries, such as internal bleeding or organ damage, are hazardous to motorcyclists involved in accidents because they may not be immediately apparent. These injuries are life-threatening and require prompt medical attention, which is why you should always seek medical treatment following a motorcycle accident.

Limb Amputations

Depending on the severity of the wreck, motorcycle accidents can lead to the amputation of limbs. This may be due to the accident itself or as a necessary medical procedure afterward due to extensive damage.

Neck and Back Injuries

Neck and back injuries can range from whiplash and strained muscles to more serious issues such as fractured vertebrae. These injuries can lead to chronic pain and mobility issues.

Facial Injuries

Without full-face helmets, riders may suffer significant facial injuries, including fractures, lacerations, and dental trauma. Facial injuries often require reconstructive surgery that may lead to scarring and issues with facial functions.

Psychological Trauma

Along with physical injuries, victims of motorcycle accidents often experience psychological impacts such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety, and depression. These mental health issues can be just as debilitating as physical injuries and require professional treatment.

Like any automobile accident, the injuries resulting from motorcycle accidents can be extensive and diverse, affecting not just the physical well-being of the riders but also their mental health and quality of life.

The more you know about your injuries sustained, the more an experienced attorney in motorcycle accident law can help you navigate the complexities of insurance and compensation claims to cover medical costs, lost wages, and other damages associated with these injuries.

What Should I Do If I’m Involved in a Motorcycle Accident?

Being involved in a motorcycle accident can be a traumatic and life-altering experience. Knowing the proper steps to take immediately following an accident ensures your safety and protects your legal rights.

Check for Injuries and Seek Medical Attention

Your priority should be to check yourself and others involved for injuries. Even if you feel fine, it’s essential to seek medical attention as some injuries, like internal bleeding or concussions, may not be immediately apparent.

Once you’ve checked yourself over and any other riders with you, if you can move and it’s safe to do so, get out of the roadway to avoid further accidents and injuries.

Following the accident, follow through with all recommended medical treatments and appointments. Documenting your recovery process will be important in personal injury claims.

Call Emergency Services

Dial 911 as soon as possible. Reporting the accident to the police is not only necessary for safety but also critical for legal purposes. The police report is an essential document in any insurance or legal proceedings. Ensuring an official accident record will be invaluable to your personal injury claim.

Document the Scene and Exchange Information

Take photographs of the accident scene, your injuries, and damage to your motorcycle and other vehicles. If there are any witnesses, try to get their contact information. This evidence can be essential in establishing the facts of the accident.

Be sure to exchange contact and insurance information with the other parties involved. But, avoid discussing the fault or details of the accident with them. Admitting fault or making statements can be used against you in legal proceedings.

Notify Your Insurance Company

Inform your insurance company about the accident as soon as possible. Be factual about the details, but remember, you don’t have to settle immediately or accept the first offer made. Also, do not admit fault or give details you are not 100 percent clear on, as it can impact your settlement.

Keep Records of Everything

Keep a detailed record of all medical treatments, receipts, and related expenses. Document any missed work or activities due to the accident. This documentation is vital for any potential compensation claims.

Consult a Pittston Motorcycle Accident Attorney

Consider consulting with a motorcycle accident lawyer if significant damages or injuries occur. Pennsylvania motorcycle accident attorneys can guide how to navigate insurance claims and help ensure you receive fair compensation for damages and injuries.

Be aware that there are legal deadlines for filing accident claims, known as statutes of limitations. An attorney can help ensure all necessary actions are taken within these time frames. In Pennsylvania, you typically have two years from the accident date to file a personal injury claim.

The steps you take following a motorcycle accident are crucial for your safety, health, and legal rights. It’s important to stay calm, think clearly, and proceed systematically. Seeking the assistance of a motorcycle accident attorney can provide additional support and guidance through the aftermath of an accident.

Why Should I Contact A Pittston Motorcycle Lawyer?

If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle accident in Pittston, contacting a local motorcycle lawyer can be a crucial step in ensuring that your rights are protected and that you receive fair compensation for your injuries and losses.

Local Legal Expertise and Experience With Motorcycle Accident Claims

A Pittston motorcycle lawyer has in-depth knowledge of Pennsylvania state laws and local Pittston regulations related to motorcycle accidents. They understand the nuances of local traffic laws and can navigate the legal system effectively in your specific case.

Because of the differences in severity of motorcycle accidents compared to a car accident, having a lawyer with experience in these collisions will be better suited to handle your claim.

Assessment of True Damages

Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries and significant financial burdens. A skilled lawyer can accurately assess the full extent of your damages, including medical bills, lost wages, pain and suffering, and potential long-term care needs.

Further, they will be able to calculate the compensation you should receive either in a settlement or a ruling from the court.

Negotiating with Insurance Companies

Insurance companies often attempt to minimize payouts. A motorcycle accident lawyer can negotiate with these companies on your behalf to ensure you receive the full compensation you are entitled to rather than accepting a low initial offer out of fear.

Representation in Court

Most personal injury cases do not go to court, but if yours does, having a lawyer with a proven track record in the courtroom experience is invaluable. They can represent your interests effectively, present your case persuasively, and advocate for your rights before a judge or jury.

Navigating Complex Legal Procedures

The legal process following a motorcycle accident can be complex and overwhelming. A motorcycle lawyer can handle all aspects of your case, from filing claims to collecting evidence and coordinating with medical professionals, allowing you to focus on your recovery.

Contingency Fee Basis

Many motorcycle lawyers work on a contingency fee basis, meaning they only get paid if you win your case. This is important as no person should be unable to get the legal representation they need for an accident caused by a negligent driver.

Addressing Liability and Fault Issues

Determining fault in motorcycle accidents can be complicated. A Pittston motorcycle lawyer is adept at investigating the accident, gathering necessary evidence, and addressing liability issues to strengthen your claim.

Personalized Legal Strategy

No two motorcycle accidents are the same, which means your claim will need a specific legal strategy. Pennsylvania personal injury attorneys with experience in motorcycle accident claims can devise a plan based on your case’s specifics, needs, and desired outcomes.

Contacting a Munley Law Pittston motorcycle lawyer after an accident is critical to protecting your legal rights and interests. Their expertise, experience, and dedicated advocacy can significantly impact the outcome of your case, ensuring that you receive the justice and compensation you deserve.

Contact a Pittston Motorcycle Accident Lawyer at Munley Law

If you or a loved one were involved in a motorcycle accident in Pittston or Northeastern Pennsylvania, call Munley Law. Our experienced Pennsylvania motorcycle accident attorneys will guide you through the legal process, establish fault, calculate damages, and ensure you get the compensation you need to move forward.

For a no-obligation, free consultation, call the Munley Law motorcycle accident lawyers today.