Motorcycle accidents are not the same as car collisions and other personal injury cases. The structure, maneuvering and handling characteristics of bikes create circumstances specific to motorcycle cases — and these circumstances often result in more severe injuries.
At Lightfoot Law, PLLC, we represent motorcycle accident victims in the Washington area and throughout District of Columbia who have been injured by someone else’s negligence.
Our Washington DC motorcycle accident lawyers can help seek compensation from the careless motorists or entities responsible for your injuries to cover the full extent of the harm you’ve suffered. Contact our personal injury lawyers in Washington DC today online or call us at (831) 708-0298.
How Our Washington, D.C. Motorcycle Accident Attorneys Fight for You
The tenacious motorcycle accident attorneys at Lightfoot Law, PLLC understand the unique challenges faced by injured motorcyclists. We consider the higher likelihood of injury in motorcycle accidents, even in seemingly minor collisions, as well as the lack of injury safeguards that are typically built into other types of motor vehicles.
We also know that bikers are often unfairly regarded as reckless, making it even more difficult to get the justice they deserve. Our firm takes action against motorists who tailgate, cut off, fail to detect or don’t yield to motorcyclists. In addition, we can work to prove that accidents were caused by unsafe road conditions such as potholes or uneven surfaces.
We argue aggressively for full compensation from the entities liable for our clients’ injuries. Ourcan help you pursue the money you deserve, including:
- Compensation for past and future medical expenses
- Recovery of lost wages
- Damages for pain and suffering
- Reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses
- Maximum value for a totaled bike
- Payment for repair of a damaged bike
We seek to maximize your recovery and get your life back to normal. Our goal is to obtain a settlement or verdict that provides you with enough money to cover all of your accident-related expenses.
What Our Motorcycle Accident Lawyers Do To Build Your Case
We possess the dogged determination to fight for justice. Lightfoot Law, PLLC consults with medical and industry experts as we thoroughly investigate each case and develop a tailored litigation strategy. We work with:
- Trauma doctors
- Neurologists specializing in motorcycle head injuries
- Chiropractors
- Forensic engineers
- Motorcycle mechanics
- Accident reconstruction analysts
At trial, expert witnesses can offer compelling testimony based on years of experience and deep understanding of motorcycle accidents and injuries. In doing so, they help juries and judges to understand the severity of motorcycle injuries and the wrongdoing of the at-fault party.
Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents
Motorcycle accidents can happen for many reasons, and in most cases, they involve preventable mistakes. Understanding common causes can help riders and other motorists stay alert on the road.
- Distracted driving
- Drivers failing to yield to motorcyclists
- Speeding or reckless driving
- Unsafe lane changes
- Driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs
- Following too closely (tailgating)
- Dangerous road conditions like potholes or debris
- Poor weather reducing visibility or traction
- Inexperienced motorcycle operators
- Opening car doors into the path of a motorcyclist (dooring accidents)
In many cases, the cause of the accident is a negligent person or entity, which means you may be able to file a personal injury claim to recoup your financial losses.
Why Motorcycle Accident Claims Are Complicated
Motorcycle accident cases are rarely straightforward. Several factors can make proving liability and recovering fair compensation more challenging than in a typical car accident in Washington DC.
Bias Against Motorcyclists
Insurance companies and even juries sometimes unfairly assume motorcyclists were speeding, weaving through traffic, or otherwise acting irresponsibly, which can make proving your case more difficult.
Severity of Injuries
Motorcyclists often suffer more severe and costly injuries compared to car occupants. This not only raises the stakes in terms of needed compensation but can also cause insurance companies to fight harder to limit payouts.
Challenges With Accident Reconstruction
Motorcycle crashes often happen in seconds, and the lighter size of a bike means evidence like skid marks or impact points can be less obvious, making it harder for investigators to reconstruct events.
Limited Witnesses
Because motorcycles are smaller and can be harder for drivers and bystanders to see, there may be fewer credible witnesses able to clearly describe how the crash happened. If fault is disputed, this makes it more difficult to prove your case.
Because these cases can be fairly complicated, it’s important to speak with a personal injury lawyer as soon as possible after the accident.
Who Could Be at Fault in a Motorcycle Accident?
Determining fault in a motorcycle accident is the first step in making sure you get the compensation you deserve when someone else’s negligent behavior causes the accident. Potential liable parties include:
Other Drivers
Most often, another motorist, like a car or truck driver, is responsible for causing the collision. This can happen when drivers fail to see motorcycles, make unsafe lane changes, run red lights, or follow too closely. Distracted or impaired driving is also a frequent cause of fault with other drivers. Call our Washington DC truck accident lawyer today.
The Motorcyclist
In some cases, the motorcyclist’s own actions contribute to the accident. Speeding, ignoring traffic signals, unsafe passing, or riding recklessly can shift responsibility onto the rider.
Employers of Commercial Drivers
If the accident involved a delivery truck, an 18-wheeler, or another commercial vehicle, the driver’s employer might be liable. Employers can be held responsible when their employee’s negligence occurs during the course of work.
Vehicle or Parts Manufacturers
A mechanical failure can cause a motorcycle to crash or make another driver unable to avoid causing an accident. Manufacturers and parts suppliers may be liable for design flaws, manufacturing defects, or failure to warn about safety risks.
Government Entities
Local or state government agencies may be at fault if unsafe road conditions played a role in the crash. Claims involving government entities have strict filing deadlines and procedures, making them more complex.
Determining fault in a motorcycle accident isn’t always straightforward, especially when more than one party shares responsibility. A bicycle accident lawyer in Washington DC can help you make this determination so you know who to file your claim against.
Contact Our Washington, D.C. Motorcycle Accident Attorneys
If you’ve been injured in a motorcycle accident in Washington, D.C., Lightfoot Law, PLLC will fight for the compensation you deserve. Call us at (202) 919-5453or contact our office online to schedule a free consultation.