Motorcycle Accidents
We Help Victims Injured in a Motorcycle Accident
Those who have been injured in a motorcycle already understand how vulnerable riders can be. Without any protective gear, motorcyclists can be seriously hurt and require extensive medical care. At Howerton, Dorris, Stone & Lambert, we help clients stand strong and fight for compensation from insurance companies. Since 1932, our attorneys have won settlements to help people recover from their injuries and restore damaged property. We offer free consultations so clients can better understand the fight they will be up against.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) recorded that there were 5,172 fatalities due to motorcyclist accidents in 2017. Additionally, over 80,000 motorcyclists were injured in traffic accidents. Roads in Illinois are becoming busier and less safe. If you or a loved one was injured in an accident due to a negligent motorcyclist, contact our experienced attorneys to find out how you can seek justice!
What To Do if You Are Involved in a Motorcycle Accident
If you are involved in a motorcycle accident you should:
- Move away from traffic or danger if possible
- Call 911 and request medical assistance
- If able, collect the drivers contact information
- Gather witness statements if possible
- Give a police statement and collect the officers badge number
- Seek professional medical assistance
It’s recommended that you don’t talk about the accident with the other drivers involved and avoid discussing the accident with the insurance company. If you are involved in a motorcycle accident it may be in your best interest to enlist the expertise of an attorney as soon as possible.
How Illinois Motorcycle Law Works
Thanks to contributory negligence and comparative fault laws, if the person responsible can prove that a motorcyclist was at fault for the accident in any way, the percentage of their fault can be deducted from their settlement award. This means insurance companies are likely to go out of their way to blame victims in order to pay less in damages. Our firm understands how to stand up to these companies and fight.
There is no cap on the amount of damages able to be sued for. However, according to the statute of limitations in Illinois, motorcycle accident claims must be filed within two years for personal injury and within five years for property damage.
Victims can sue for compensation to cover:
- Medical and healthcare costs
- Lost wages or opportunities
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
- Wrongful death
How Our Firm Can Help
Fighting for the Better Settlement Clients Deserve
No matter the kind of injury you have suffered in a motorcycle accident, the team at HDSL wants to help. We have been the trusted Marion personal injury lawyers for nearly a century, and we have the in-depth knowledge and insights necessary to help our clients obtain better outcomes. If you believe you may have a case, now is the time to call our office and schedule your free consultation.