Cicero Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
In Illinois, there are over 300,000 licensed motorcycles navigating the roads, a number that continues to rise annually according to the Motorcycle Operator Manual published by the Illinois Secretary of State. With such a significant presence of motorcyclists, accidents are inevitable, exacerbated by drivers’ tendency to overlook them compared to other vehicles. Additionally, motorcyclists lack the protective measures afforded to other motorists, resulting in more severe injuries. If you or a loved one has suffered harm while riding, you may be entitled to seek compensation. Our team of Cicero motorcycle accident attorneys is here to guide you through the process and fight for your rights.
Our Cicero Motorcycle Accident Services
Motorcycle accidents encompass various types, each presenting unique dangers for riders. Among the most common are left turn accidents, where drivers fail to see oncoming motorcyclists; lane splitting incidents, occurring when bikers navigate between slow-moving traffic lanes, often leading to collisions due to drivers’ blind spots; dooring accidents, where parked motorists unwittingly open doors into the path of motorcyclists; head-on and rear-end collisions, both typically resulting in severe outcomes for bikers; and lane change accidents, where drivers may overlook motorcyclists due to their smaller profile. The injuries sustained in these accidents are often grave, as motorcyclists lack the protective features found in other vehicles. From broken bones and abdominal injuries to burns and internal bleeding, the toll on bikers can be devastating. It’s essential for victims of motorcycle accidents to seek legal support to navigate the complexities of seeking compensation and holding negligent parties accountable for their actions.
Contact a Cicero Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Today
In the aftermath of a motorcycle accident, understanding your rights is paramount, and the Cicero motorcycle accident attorneys at Kennedy Watkins are here to ensure they are protected. Available 24/7, we are committed to serving you and will travel to meet with you, regardless of your location in Cicero. Contact us now at (312) 448 – 8181 or online to schedule a free consultation and discover how we can assist you in seeking justice and compensation.
FAQ
About Motorcycle Accidents in Illinois
What Should I Do After a Motorcycle Accident?
The steps you take after a motorcycle accident can greatly impact your claim. First and foremost, you should seek medical attention. Even if you do not think you were hurt, you should still see a doctor who can examine you and look for injuries. Seeking medical attention will not only protect your safety and well-being, but it will also document your injuries, making them easier to prove to the insurance company.
You should also collect as much evidence while still at the scene of the crash. This includes pictures of your injuries, the vehicles involved, and the overall scene. Locate witnesses and ask them for their names and contact information. After you leave the scene, keep all invoices, receipts, records of lost wages, and any other documentation regarding the crash.
Do Motorcycle Passengers Have Rights in a Crash?
Yes. If you have been hurt as a passenger on a motorcycle, you have all the same rights as bikers when filing a claim. You can even file a claim if the negligent motorcyclist was the one you were sharing a bike with at the time.
How Long Do I Have to File a Claim After a Motorcycle Accident?
Every state has a statute of limitations, or time limit, on motorcycle claims and Illinois is no different. In Illinois, you generally have only two years from the date of the crash to file a claim for compensation. If you do not file your claim within this time, you will likely lose your right to claim any compensation at all. While two years may sound like a long time, it is not. Before filing your claim, an investigation must be conducted, and evidence must be collected. All of this takes time and so, it is critical that you speak to a lawyer right away.
What Damages are Available in Motorcycle Claims?
Through a motorcycle accident claim, you can recover compensation for any loss you suffered as a result of your crash. The most common damages awarded in motorcycle accident claims include:
- Medical bills, including hospitalizations, surgeries, medications, physical therapy, and more
- Lost wages, bonuses, and employment benefits
- Pain and suffering
- Property damage
An attorney can review the facts of your case and accurately value your claim so you obtain the full settlement you deserve.
Do I Have to Speak to an Insurance Adjuster After an Accident?
No. You do not have any legal obligation to speak to an insurance adjuster after an accident. The only person you must speak to after a crash is law enforcement when they visit the scene. However, you should speak to a lawyer soon after any accident. Not only will a lawyer know how to get you the compensation you justly deserve, but they will also speak to the insurance company on your behalf.