Motorcycle Accidents Archives - Simon Law

Am I Due Compensation for My Motorcycle Accident?

Vuria Admin — Mon, 22 Nov 2021 21:12:41 +0000

A motorcycle accident can be terrifying, but once you’re on the path to recovery, it’s time to think about whether you are due compensation. Your case may not be as cut and dry as the other party’s insurance might have you believe, especially if you suffered a serious or complex injury. Here are a few things you are eligible to seek compensation for:

Medical bills: Getting injured is expensive! You may be facing any number of medical bills due to your injury. This is the most obvious need for compensation, as it shouldn’t be your responsibility to pay for expenses related to an injury that wasn’t your fault.
Property damage: Another obvious need for compensation is to cover the cost of the property damage you’ve suffered. This includes, but is not limited to, your bike. Also, consider the value of anything else that will have to be replaced due to the accident, such as your helmet, protective gear, and anything you may have been carrying with you at the time.
Lost income: Typically along with a serious injury comes a substantial amount of lost income, income you and your family were depending on to keep the bills paid, a roof over your heads, and food in the fridge. Typically you’ll determine a per diem of what income you’ve lost per day, and multiply that by how many days you’ve spent or anticipate spending out of work due to the accident.
Out-of-pocket expenses: You may have other expenses due to the accident, that you wouldn’t have had to pay otherwise. For instance, does going to your medical appointments require an Uber or a babysitter? Have you been charged copays? Keep track of these expenses, as they should be covered as well.
Pain and suffering: Surviving a motorcycle accident isn’t just a terrifying experience; it’s also often an incredibly painful one. Compensation for pain and suffering is a valid part of your claim, as it recognizes that the impact on your life is much more than just the financial cost of your injuries and your loss of property.
Emotional distress: The emotional impact of your accident is important too. Serious accidents often leave victims with PTSD and other conditions due to the extreme trauma. Emotional distress can be as much of a disability and have just as much of a lasting impact as a physical impairment, if not more so.
Lost quality of life: Likewise, it’s important to consider the change in your life in the days, weeks, months, or even years following your accident. Your injury robs you of precious time as you recover, and in some cases, if you might never fully recover.
Loss of Consortium: Finally, and most tragically, you should expect compensation if you lost a spouse or family member to a motorcycle accident. Not only do you still have bills to pay and a loved one to bury, but now you also have to face the rest of your life without them. No amount of money will make up for their loss, but having enough money to pay your bills can at least reduce your stress and give you space to grieve.

Recovering from a motorcycle accident is tough. Doctor’s appointments, expenses, and the physical and emotional impact can be overwhelming. This is why it’s important for you to have an attorney who rides and is looking out for your best interests. With an experienced lawyer managing the details of your case, you can focus better on your task at hand: recovering from your accident. To discuss your case in detail, contact Simon Law Group, PLLC, and schedule a consultation today.

Rider? 5 Things You Should Know About Motorcycle Accidents in Arizona

RadiateWP — Fri, 04 May 2018 21:21:42 +0000

Motorcycle Injuries and Accident Stats In Arizona in 2016, motorcycles were involved in only 2.45% (3115) of accidents. However, motorcycle accidents made up 78.37% of all injury accidents, with 2,602 people being injured. Also, of these accidents, 76.31% of them occurred in urban settings, suggesting that other vehicles were involved. Source: https://www.azdot.gov/motor-vehicles/Statistics/arizona-motor-vehicle-crash-facts Minimum Insurance Required for Motorcycles in Arizona There is a minimum required insurance coverage for motorcycles in the state of Arizona. These requirements, outlined by the Arizona DMV, are $15,000 bodily injury for one person involved in one accident, $30,000 bodily injury for two or more people involved in one accident, and $10,000 property damage coverage. Time Limitations to Seek Restitution You have two years to seek restitution in a case involving injury sustained in a motorcycle accident. If a loved one was killed in a motorcycle accident, you have two years from the date the person died. Healthcare Liens for Accidents Most healthcare providers will immediately place a lien on anyone coming in that has been involved in an accident. They do this without even looking at the accident victim’s insurance policies. Although this type of lien does not apply to your wages or other income, if you receive a settlement, this money will be taken from it. A good lawyer can get this lien waived by finding:

It was not recorded in a timely manner
There is no statement regarding continued treatment
There are any errors in the amounts recorded for treatment received
There were any unnecessary treatments, or
Treatments were received not directly related to the accident

Settlements Most motorcycle accident cases are settled easily out of court, if you do go to court there are some things your lawyer should do on your behalf. These include but are not limited to the following:

File official complaint
Serve the defendant
Confirm or deny complaint in writing
Go to court (you may also appear)
Provide testimony (you may also testify)

Settlements for motorcycle accidents can include compensation for loss of property, loss of the ability to work, loss of proper body functioning, medical bills, and pain and suffering. Contacting an experienced personal injury attorney to help assess your rights when you have been in a motorcycle accident is crucial. With over 29 years of experience in Arizona, the Simon Law Group will provide a free and confidential consultation when you call 480-745-2450 or click here. Remember, Experience Matters!!!]]>

Motorcycle Accident Cases and Settlements: What You Need to Know

RadiateWP — Fri, 19 Jan 2018 20:02:09 +0000

th) for motorcycle ownership, it also ranks 12^th in motorcycle fatalities, according to GHSA. Whether the economics, weather, or general desire for ‘wind therapy’, more people are riding than ever before, thus increasing both motorcycle accidents and fatalities. “[Across the nation] in 2015, 4,976 people died in motorcycle crashes, up 8 percent from 4,594 in 2014. In addition, 88,000 motorcyclists were injured, down 3 percent from 92,000 in 2014. In 2015, 40 percent of the motorcyclists killed were not wearing helmets.” Source: Insurance Information Institute: Motorcycle Crashes Because motorcycles are less stable and protective than other vehicles on the road, injuries are more likely, and fatality rates are higher for bikers. In Arizona, it is important to both wear a helmet and ride sober in order to reduce your risks, however, accidents happen through no fault of your own. Hopefully it never happens to you or someone close to you, but if it does, it is important to have an experienced lawyer on your side. Experience allows the attorney to be familiar with cases and laws in order to best represent you in your motorcycle accident injury case. Here are just a few examples of people we have helped. Remember, these results should not create an expectation of future results. Truck vs. 2 Passenger Motorcycle A couple were on a motorcycle ride when a truck pulled out in front of them. The driver of the motorcycle took evasive action in order to miss the pickup truck, swerving to the left, which caused his passenger to be thrown off. She fractured her right humerus, dislocated her right shoulder, fractured her right hip and sustained multiple abrasions and road rash. The at-fault driver, as well as her own insurance, amounted to a settlement of $549k. Vehicle vs. Motorcyclist A motorcyclist was riding one spring day when a vehicle turned left in front of him, causing him to crash his motorcycle. The rider sustained multiple fractures in his rib, a radius fracture of his left wrist requiring surgery, significant bruising, and road rash. He was awarded a settlement in the amount of $250k 4 Months of Medical Treatment While riding in Mesa, Arizona, a biker was struck by a vehicle, causing a wrist fracture, a fractured clavicle and significant road rash. Recovery took almost four months. His settlement was near $350k for compensation for his injuries. A Reckless SUV While riding his motorcycle, a client was hit by an SUV running a red light. Losing consciousness by being thrown from his bike, the client required overnight hospitalization. While under the care of a doctor for over 3 months, the client recovered from road rash, bruising, multiple contusions and pneumothorax to his right lung. The client received over $128k in compensation for his injuries. What You Need To Know If you or someone close to you has been injured in a motorcycle accident due to someone else’s actions: Speaking to an experienced lawyer can help you receive compensation for the financial and emotional toll it has caused You are not alone. We answer your call 24 hours a day Simon Law Group offers nearly 30 years of experience to work for you We provide a confidential, free consultation to determine whether or not you have a case Call 480-745-2450 or submit our web form to get scheduled for your consultation. Experience Matters! ]]>

What do I do after being involved in an accident on my motorcycle?

RadiateWP — Sat, 29 Jul 2017 18:01:22 +0000

There aren’t many personal events that are as chaotic, sudden, and overwhelming as being involved in an accident, especially as a motorcyclist. If you were recently in a collision with a vehicle, you may be wondering what to do next.

First and foremost: seek medical attention. Hopefully, this was your first step after the accident, but if you didn’t go then, go now! Oftentimes, a person in an accident won’t feel pain from their injuries until a day or two later, after their body has recovered from the shock. Even if you still feel fine, get checked out; it’s better to be safe than sorry.

Noting the scene

Ideally, you would have taken down the names of any witnesses to the accident, and definitely the details of the other driver. Right after the accident, try to take photos of the scene, of your injuries, and of the damage to your motorcycle or any other property.

If you didn’t then, go back when you can, while the memories are still fresh in your mind, and get the pictures. Diagram the scene as you remember it, and take photos of any skid marks, or remaining damage to surrounding infrastructure. Get detailed photos of damage to your bike, too.

Track expenses

Write down anything you spent due to the accident, from medical bills to lost wages: any monetary loss that you incurred after the accident. Keep track of damage to your motorcycle, the cost to tow or recover the bike from impound, if necessary, and fees for the rental car or taxi needed to get you around in the meantime. Anything that you spend that you wouldn’t have otherwise needed to pay for is eligible for compensation, either from the insurance company, or from the settlement later on.

Contact an attorney

This should be a step you take early on in the process. As soon as you think you may have a case against the other driver, you have the right to seek compensation. And the earlier you bring an experienced attorney–preferably one with personal and professional experience of motorcycle laws in Arizona–the better.

Once you have taken care of the most immediately pressing needs after a motorcycle accident, take steps to ensure that this accident doesn’t destroy your finances and prospects for the future. Work with a lawyer who will ensure that the insurance companies deliver fair compensation.

Did you know that Simon Law Group is a motorcycle accident specialist, and attorney Craig Simon is himself a motorcyclist? Who better to trust with the aftermath of your outcome than an experienced attorney and experienced rider?

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Who Can Be Liable for a Motorcycle Accident?

RadiateWP — Wed, 24 May 2017 17:33:20 +0000

Other Vehicle Drivers. Studies by the National Highway Safety Administration (NHTSA) have found that in accidents occurring between motorcyclists and cars, the motorcyclist was either not at fault or less at fault than the other driver 80 percent of the time. So, statistically speaking, the driver of a motor vehicle could very well be at fault.

Product Manufacturers. Investigate to see if other motorcyclists have had similar issues with parts or quirks in their bike. It’s possible that the product manufacturer permitted a defective piece to be produced, which may have contributed to your accident.

State or County Government. Potholes and cracks in the road can be more dangerous for motorcycles than other motor vehicles. If local authorities neglected to maintain roads with known issues, those entities may be liable for your accident.

Private Property Owners. Injured while driving on a privately owned road? The owners may be considered partially responsible for your accident if the way was not properly maintained.

Repair Shops. Negligent auto shops can forget to tighten screws or leave out parts entirely after a repair, which could have contributed to the events of your accident.

Any person or entity that contributed in any way–directly or indirectly–to the accident may be fully or partially liable for the injuries you sustained. Talk with a motorycycle accident attorney Liability Experts Many motorcycle accident cases, particularly those that result in serious injury or death, require the assessment of accident reconstruction experts and human factors experts. These are professionals who do exactly as their names suggest: carefully review the accident by repeating the events that played out, and evaluating how each participant could have impacted the accident. It is especially useful here for the plaintiff to find experts who specialize in motorcycles and motorcycle accidents specifically. Many aspects of accidents involving motorcycles are unique, containing details that a generalist will not be able to fully appreciate. This is, of course, another reason to retain an attorney who specializes in motorcycle accident law–or who is even a rider himself. Determining liability won’t reverse the damages of your motorcycle accident, but it can help you get the compensation and support that you will definitely need. Contact the specialized Simon Law Group Office for more information on how our experienced accident attorneys can help you with your claim. ]]>

How Can I Prove the Other Driver Was At Fault After a Motorcycle Accident?

RadiateWP — Tue, 21 Mar 2017 15:27:58 +0000

drivers of automobiles who are most to blame for collisions when they occur. A series of reports gathered during a study by the National Highway Safety Administration (NHTSA) found that in accidents occurring between motorcyclists and cars, the motorcyclist was either not at fault or less at fault than the other driver 80 percent of the time. So how do you make sure that you are able to prove the other driver bears the responsibility for an accident should one occur?

Get a Copy of the Police Report.

The best evidence you’ll have will be the police report. Usually very detailed and with a clear perspective, these reports know what to point out and often delineate fault for the accident within the text. This is a great document to bolster your case for why the car was at fault for your motorcycle accident.

Record Statements from the Other Driver.

“I didn’t see you there!” or “I thought you were farther away!” are not excuses for causing an accident. Rather they can be seen as admission of guilt in many cases. On the other hand, anger on the part of the other driver could warn you that they will not be admitting to fault. Write down anything that they say for later review.

Get Witness Statements.

If you are at all able to, ask witnesses for their information, and if they would be willing to share what they saw with your legal team. Perhaps they saw the accident itself, and can provide additional perspective on the events. Or maybe they were present during a discussion with the other driver, and can corroborate that interaction.

Photograph the Scene.

Pictures of an incident scene often are worth several thousand words, as they can give a very clear picture of what happened. Snap shots of your bike, the vehicle, the street (up and down) and feel free to diagram what happened for greater clarity. This should include descriptions of road conditions, images of any skid marks, and the presence of any other cars. Too often, drivers of automobiles fail to look out for the others on the road. From pedestrians to motorcycles, every driver owes everyone else the same duty of care: to follow the rules of the road. If you are in a motorcycle accident that was caused by an automobile, you deserve justice for your injuries and damages. Simon Law Group is headed by an experienced motorcycle rider, whose unique perspective makes him the ideal match to represent your motorcycle accident case. Schedule a free consultation today.]]>

What Can A Lawyer Accomplish for My Motorcycle Accident Case That I Cannot?

RadiateWP — Fri, 06 Jan 2017 18:18:47 +0000

Perhaps it’s obvious, but attorneys spend the entirety of their career understanding the rules of evidence and liability, and so already have a thorough comprehension of the process that enables them to make the right moves and work more quickly. Most will have already dealt with the same laws, discovered the appropriate angles, and hone in on the strongest aspects of the case.

It’s an unfortunate truth that there can be a bias against motorcyclists when an accident occurs. An excellent motorcycle lawyer will know just how to present you and your case in the most favorable light possible. This attorney will understand how an adjustor, judge, and jury each looks at the case, and how to speak to the concerns and questions of each.

They don’t always play nice in the courtroom, and in the heat of the moment it can be difficult to keep your cool or find the right words to defend your actions. By having an attorney defend you, you get insulation from the bull-dog tactics of the other lawyer, while your own counsel fights just as fiercely for you.

Experienced counsel will know how to tell the story in a compelling way. And they also know how to have the jury hone in on physical or mental scars that are more long lasting than they may seem. With medical understanding of the facts, the lawyer can describe how the accident has impacted your whole life.

Better Results. Many reports show that individuals with legal representation have a better chance at obtaining a successful claims resolution, and fare better in court, compared to individuals who choose to represent their own case and fight their own fight.

It is possible that you could get some amount of compensation through a quick settlement, but it’s important to understand that once you sign, that’s all you can ever hope to get. Future costs, unseen expenses, or longer-lasting injuries won’t matter, that will be it. Are you prepared to fight as long and as hard as you will need to for your own rights? The attorneys of Simon Law Group have extensive professional experience with motorcycle laws, and personal experience, as Craig Simon is himself a long time rider. Who better to present your case than an attorney who knows the laws and knows the perceptions better than anyone else? Let us leverage our knowledge in getting you the acknowledgement and compensation that you need. ]]>

SAFETY TIPS FOR PREVENTING MOTORCYCLE RIDING ACCIDENTS

RadiateWP — Sat, 26 Nov 2016 16:37:45 +0000

When approaching an intersection, flash your brake lights to capture the attention of those behind you, whether it is stopped cars, a stop sign, or a yellow traffic signal.

Position yourself within the lane where you are most likely to be seen and the surface condition of the pavement is the safest; stop in a location that leaves space in front of you to accelerate and swerve out of harm’s way. Always keep your motorcycle in gear with your hand on the clutch and brake levers, and constantly scan the mirrors for approaching vehicles.

If a dangerous condition unfolds, avoid target fixation so that you do not crash into whatever it is that you are staring at, look for escape route options. Whenever possible, plan for more than one escape path in order to avoid being locked in. Whenever a riding situation starts to concern you, cover your controls with your hands and feet come off the highway pegs, roll off the throttle, activate your brake lights, and be extra attentive; routinely practice extreme braking and swerving.

Contact Craig J. Simon and Simon Law Group at [email protected] or (480)745-2450 for a no fee consultation to determine what is best for you.]]>

What Are My Rights As a Rider After a Motorcycle Accident?

RadiateWP — Tue, 20 Sep 2016 18:38:44 +0000

Insurance Payment Regardless of who was at fault, your insurance company is responsible for paying your initial medical expenses, according to the specifics and limits of your policy. They, in turn, may be able to receive reimbursement after an accident claim, but they have a duty to take care of you until then. Replacement of Lost Income Most people who suffer injuries in an accident face loss of income from work or the need to pay someone else to take care of any responsibilities that you cannot. You are owed compensation for that loss Payment for Damages to Motorcycle When your motorcycle is damaged in an accident and requires repair or replacement, you are entitled to a rental car if you were not at fault for the crash. A Safe Roadway Once any driver, motor vehicle or motorcycle, gets on the road with other drivers, each of them owes the rest their safest, most responsible driving. If another driver acted in a way that contributed to your accident, they were at the very least negligent in their duty to keep you and their fellow drivers safe. Pain and Suffering In Arizona, there is no specified limit on the amount you can recover for pain and suffering, and you are entitled to past, present, and future compensation for the injuries and distress you experienced as a result of your accident. Compensation for Any Cause of Accident Even if it wasn’t another vehicle that caused your accident, you may be able to pursue action against other contributing factors. If damaged pavement, insufficient signage, poorly lit roads, or other design defects caused your accident, your local or state government may be liable for your injuries. Whenever you are pursuing legal action against anyone with more power–or even the same amount of power–as you, it is critical that you hire skilled, knowledgeable counsel. An experienced attorney can advise you on what steps you need to take and what the likely outcome of your case will be. As a motorcycle rider, you have certain rights just like any other driver. Don’t lose out on the compensation and consideration you are owed, contact an accident attorney with extensive personal and professional experience defending cases such as yours. Schedule your free mini session today!]]>

Motorcycle Accidents Archives - Simon Law

Am I Due Compensation for My Motorcycle Accident?

Rider? 5 Things You Should Know About Motorcycle Accidents in Arizona

Motorcycle Accident Cases and Settlements: What You Need to Know

Top 7 answers to frequently asked questions about motorcycle accidents

1. How long do I have to file a motorcycle accident claim in Arizona?

2. What if I didn’t have insurance on my motorcycle?

3. Who can sue for motorcycle injury and accident cases?

4. What if I was partially to blame for the accident?

5. What if I didn’t see the vehicle that caused my motorcycle accident?

6. Do I have to call the police after a traffic accident?