Motorcycle Accident Injury Lawyers in Carbondale

Offices in Marion, Carbondale, Benton, Harrisburg & Metropolis

Motorcyclists suffer a disproportionate number of serious injuries and fatalities when compared to other motorists. 

According to data from the National Safety Council (NSC), motorcyclists account for 14% of all traffic deaths, even though motorcycles only make up 3% of all registered vehicles. Sadly, many of these fatalities and injuries come about due to negligent automobile drivers who fail to maintain expected safety standards. 

Fortunately, motorcyclists and their passengers can seek justice through compensation from motorists and other parties responsible for these accidents.

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    How a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Carbondale, IL, Can Help

    The principal objective of a motorcycle accident lawyer in Carbondale, IL, is to fight to ensure that their client receives the highest compensation possible. At Lawler & Lawler, this is precisely what each of our skilled and passionate motorcycle accident attorneys works diligently to accomplish.

    Contact us today at (616) 889-4981 for a free consultation.

    Building a Strong Case for Compensation

    Once we take your case, your motorcycle accident lawyer in Carbondale, IL, will begin by thoroughly investigating the circumstances of your motorcycle accident for the purpose of building a strong case for compensation.

    During this stage of the case, your motorcycle accident lawyer will meticulously gather and analyze various forms of evidence, including:

    • Official accident reports.
    • Traffic, dashboard, and other types of video footage.
    • Witness statements.
    • Driving records of the drivers involved.
    • Accident reconstruction evidence provided by reconstruction experts.

    Additionally, your motorcycle accident lawyer in Carbondale, IL, will carefully examine and catalog every compensable loss you have suffered to ensure that you receive proper compensation from the parties that have caused you harm.

    Compensable losses in motorcycle claims include financial losses, such as medical treatment costs and lost income. They also encompass nonfinancial losses, including pain and suffering, disability, disfigurement, and loss of society.

    Hard-Line Negotiations with Insurance Companies

    Insurance companies put up vigorous defenses against compensation claims. Their goal is often to pay out as little compensation as possible or none at all. Adjusters employ various tactics to achieve this, including tempting unrepresented victims with quick and easy payouts that are far below what these victims deserve. 

    With an experienced motorcycle accident attorney in Carbondale, IL, representing you, you get the assurance that any offer you are advised to accept is indeed a valid one that truly takes into account your losses and the circumstances of the accident.

    Why So Many Motorcycle Accidents Occur

    A large percentage of motorcycle accidents occur due to the negligence of automobile drivers. But how does this negligence play out specifically?

    Improper Left Turns

    Drivers often cause motorcycle accidents when making left turns. They either fail to yield to oncoming motorcyclists, or they fail to pay close enough attention and do not see them.

    Improper Opening of Car Doors

    Drivers and passengers of automobiles must take great care when opening their doors. However, many do not look for approaching riders before opening their doors to step out.

    Following Too Closely

    Drivers who follow motorcyclists too closely are at risk of striking them in the event of a sudden stop or slow down, which commonly occur in traffic.

    Distracted Driving

    Driving while distracted is a leading cause of all traffic accidents, especially those involving motorcycles. Because motorcycles have a much lower profile than cars and trucks, distracted drivers have an even harder time noticing them until it is too late.

    Other Hazards

    One cause of motorcycle accidents that does not always involve negligent drivers is hazardous road conditions. Improperly constructed or repaired roads can lead to serious accidents and may be the fault of a municipal agency or a road construction contractor. 

    Similarly, motorcycle accidents are sometimes caused by defective motorcycles and motorcycle equipment, which would put the manufacturer or designer of the vehicle at fault. Also, motorcycle repair and maintenance shops may cause accidents by failing to properly service a motorcycle.

    Testimonials

    Above and Beyond

    I started with Lawler and Lawler due to the commercials that I saw on TV...they are great and went above and beyond. They never gave up and I felt we were in this together the entire time.

    Extremely Happy

    Lawler and Lawler provided excellent representation. They work hard to see that you are not treated unfairly and your legal rights are upheld and have not been compromised in any aspect of your case. I was extremely happy

    Peace of Mind

    Lawler and Lawler helped me get through a difficult time in my life. They handled my case beautifully, kept me in the loop, and made my recovery much easier. I would recommend them to everyone. They gave me piece of mind, and helped me get my life back.

    Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) for Motorcycle Accident Injury Lawyers

    According to a report by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the most common type of motorcycle accident injuries are injuries to the lower extremities, including the:

    • Legs
    • Pelvis
    • Knees
    • Thighs
    • Feet
    • Ankles
    • Hips

    When it comes to fatalities, head, and chest injuries tend to be the most common, with head injuries accounting for more deaths than chest injuries. 

    Motorcycle riders who use safety equipment, such as helmets, protective clothing, and protective footwear, have lower incidences of serious injuries and fatalities than unprotected riders. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), helmets can be up to 41% effective in preventing motorcycle accident fatalities. 

    So, although Illinois does not have a mandatory helmet law, motorcycle riders, and their passengers should always consider wearing a helmet.

    The time it takes to settle a personal injury claim depends on the circumstances of the accident. Every case is different, so settlement times can vary. However, as a general rule, the more complex a case, the longer it is likely to take to settle.

    Some factors that tend to complicate personal injury claims and make them take longer to settle include:

    • Lack of clarity regarding who is liable
    • Evidentiary problems, such as missing or unavailable evidence
    • The severity of injuries
    • Drawn-out medical treatment
    • Substantial compensation demands

    Additionally, an unreasonable insurance company adjuster who is unwilling to pay what a victim deserves can force your motorcycle accident attorney in Carbondale, IL, to file a lawsuit and take the case to trial. In the event of a trial, the time it takes to resolve a case can take much longer.

    What you do after a motorcycle accident will factor heavily into your subsequent claim for compensation. Hence, there are certain things that you should definitely refrain from doing after the crash, such as:

    • Admitting guilt.
    • Leaving the scene.
    • Giving a recorded statement.
    • Accepting an offer.
    • Failing to file a report.

    It’s always wise to speak with an attorney before going on record. Also, keep in mind that leaving an accident scene too early is considered a crime. You should also not hesitate to seek medical attention, which will help you recover as well as provide you with an official record of your injuries. 

    If you have suffered an injury as a result of a motorcycle accident, do not hesitate to contact the attorneys at Lawler & Lawler Injury Law at (616) 889-4981. We will help you pursue maximum compensation for your losses!