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.
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:
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.