Poplar Grove Motorcycle Accident Attorneys
Motorcycles are one of the most dangerous vehicles you can drive. Even when a motorcyclist is careful, accidents can occur. In the aftermath of an injury, there can be plenty of different variables to balance. Hire an experienced Poplar Grove motorcycle accident lawyer to obtain compensation for your injuries while you focus on recovery.
At Franks Gerkin Ponitz & Greeley, we have years of experience representing victims of motorcycle accidents due to negligence. Our dedicated legal team has helped many people across the northern Illinois area in the aftermath of a motorcycle accident hold the right party responsible. We can confidently walk you through the steps of filing a claim for a motorcycle accident.
Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Riding a motorcycle involves a greater risk and potential for injury than driving a car or other vehicle. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 6,335 motorcyclists were killed in 2023 in accidents. The following are some examples of causes for both single-vehicle and multiple-vehicle motorcycle accidents:
- Impaired drivers. Drugs and alcohol contribute to many different motor vehicle accidents, including motorcycle accidents. A blood alcohol level beyond the .08 legal limit was found in 24% of motorcycle drivers involved in fatal accidents in 2021. Alcohol and other substances can play a major role in life-altering accidents.
- Road hazards. Debris, potholes, or other road hazards can all be dangerous to a motorcycle driver. Unlike cars or larger vehicles, a motorcycle has limited protection and balance in the event of hazards. A simple bump in the road for a car can be disastrous to a motorcycle.
- Negligence of other drivers. Motorcycles can be overlooked or ignored by other drivers on the road.
- Speeding. Dangerously exceeding the speed limit has been the cause of many motorcycle accidents. It can reduce reaction time, leading to avoidable mistakes on the part of both parties.
Poplar Grove Motorcycle Accident Laws
In the time after a motorcycle accident, there are a few different legal options you have. The first is filing a claim with an insurance company. If you do not believe any other party was liable for the accident, then it may be your only option.
On the other hand, if you believe another party was responsible for the accident in Poplar Grove, then pursuing a motorcycle accident claim may be your preferred path. Motorcycle crash claims fall under Poplar Grove personal injury laws. Generally, you have two years to file a claim against the party that you believe was negligent in the accident. These cases require you to prove liability through evidence, including any video recording, witnesses, or physical records.
Motorcycle accident claims can result in settlements or trial results that provide compensation for injuries sustained and any suffering. Examples of potential damages include:
- Medical bills
- Legal fees
- Pain and suffering
- Loss of income
It’s important to realize all of the different forms of compensation you can obtain when a maximized settlement takes into account all of your damages.
Hire a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Motorcycle accidents can leave you with serious injuries that make it hard to focus on anything other than recovery. That is why it can be a great idea to hire a motorcycle accident lawyer. A Poplar Grover motorcycle accident lawyer can do a variety of things for you in the aftermath of an accident.
The first is that they can investigate the accident for you and uncover evidence that can help prove liability for a personal injury claim. This is essential for your case and key to obtaining a positive result for your settlement or trial.
The second is that they can negotiate with insurance companies for you. Oftentimes, the insurance companies will try to shift the blame onto you so that they can pay a smaller sum. An experienced motorcycle accident attorney can stop these larger corporations from taking advantage of you in your time of need.
Finally, they can help you determine what legal actions you may or may not want to take. Having a legal advocate by your side who has dealt with numerous motorcycle accident cases before can be beneficial, as they know what it takes to obtain full compensation that covers all of your damages.
FAQs About Poplar Grove, IL Motorcycle Accident Law
What First Steps Should You Take After a Motorcycle Accident?
The first thing to do after a motorcycle accident is to call 911 and seek medical attention. If you are able to, take photographs or videos of the scene while it is still fresh. If another driver was involved, exchange contact and insurance information. Obtain the personal information of any witnesses. Records of the crash from law enforcement and medical documentation can be crucial later on when discussing insurance and personal injury claims.
What Is the Average Settlement for an Illinois Motorcycle Accident?
It is difficult to determine an average settlement in the case of Illinois motorcycle accidents. The details of the accident, such as road conditions and the other parties involved, can greatly affect the case. Solid, compelling evidence and a skilled negotiator can be crucial to a maximized settlement. Speak with your motorcycle accident attorney to find out what to expect for your unique circumstances.
How Long Does a Motorcycle Accident Claim Take?
There are no guarantees for how long your particular claim will take. If the other party realizes that they are clearly liable, they may choose to settle rather quickly. On the other hand, if the liability is unclear, the case is complex, or goes to court, it could last an extensive period of time, with either side filing additional appeals. No two claims are the same.
Contact Us Today
The seasoned team at Franks Gerkin Ponitz & Greeley is here for you during this trying time. Whether your accident occurred because of a reckless driver on Poplar Grove Road or an impaired driver on IL-76, our vast experience involving Illinois motorcycle accident cases means we are well prepared to help you achieve an optimal result. Contact us today or visit our office in Marengo—located on East Grant Highway just down the street from the Marengo-Union Library.
