Common Causes of Chicago Motorcycle Accidents
The slim profile of a motorcycle can make it difficult to see. While drivers and motorcyclists both have a responsibility to watch for one another, drivers are generally at fault when:- Failing to yield the right-of-way: According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), 42 percent of motorcycle accidents occur at intersections. A driver who turns left in front of a motorcycle leaves no time for the operator to avoid a crash.
- Failing to clear blind spots: Nearly half of the area surrounding a car has blind spots. Drivers who fail to adjust their mirrors and to watch for motorcycles can cause a traumatic motorcycle accident.
- Failure to understand motorcycle braking: Motorcyclists typically downshift or roll off the throttle instead of braking. A driver may miss a slowing motorcycle due to not seeing brake lights.
- Drunk driving: Despite possible criminal charges, Illinois drivers continue to take risks driving under the influence of alcohol and recreational drugs. Alcohol and drugs impair a driver’s judgment, significantly decreasing their overall ability to maintain control of their vehicle.
- Aggressive driving: Impatient drivers who drive aggressively can cause a tragic accident. Motorcyclists are at risk of serious harm when other drivers tailgate, run relights, speed, or engage in road rage.
- Distracted driving: The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) estimates that approximately eight people die each day in the United States due to a distracted driver. Smartphones, navigational devices, and even passengers can divert drivers’ attention away from the road.
Your Chicago Motorcycle Accident Injuries
The open road adventure is what appeals to many motorcycle owners. However, whether you ride for enjoyment, for your commute, or both, protective safety gear only goes so far in protecting you from serious injuries. A motorcycle operator is at risk for the following extensive types of expensive injuries:#1. Traumatic brain injury (TBI)
A severe brain injury can change your life or your loved one’s life in dramatic ways. For example, a motorcyclist who strikes their head against an unforgiving surface can require a lifetime of care. While Illinois law does not require a helmet, wearing one can significantly reduce the severity of a brain injury. If you or a loved one suffered a severe TBI due to a careless Chicago driver, get help from Stewart J. Guss, Injury Accident Lawyers as soon as possible.#2. Spinal Cord Injury
The spinal cord is easy to take for granted until it suffers severe damage. Then, important communication with the brain can stop, resulting in paralysis. A patient with a spinal cord injury typically needs a power chair for mobility and home modifications for the chair. Vehicle changes are also a common need, as patients need accessible transportation to and from appointments. In addition, some spinal cord injury patients may require a new vehicle. Costs like these, along with medical care needs, can reach millions throughout a patient’s lifetime. When the spinal cord injury results from another person’s negligence, fighting for compensation is your right.#3. Road Rash
A painful skin abrasion, severe road rash can lead to complications if it becomes infected. Contact with a hard surface can cause the skin to break. Deep abrasions from a motorcycle accident can involve:- Debris in the wound, such as dirt or grass
- Damaged blood vessels, tendons, or nerves
#4. Broken Bones
A motorcyclist can experience multiple broken bones in a tragic accident. Depending upon the type of break, many riders face a lengthy recovery, filled with surgery and therapy to regain the use of arms and legs. Broken ribs and other types of breaks can make returning to work almost impossible. The anxiety you feel concerning your mounting medical costs and loss of income is unsurprising and justifiable. Pursuing compensation through a motorcycle accident lawsuit can alleviate some of your stress. We cannot predict the outcome of your civil case; however, a lawyer can fight for a fair settlement. If necessary, your lawyer may take your case to court. Severe injuries are life-changing. Your medical care or that for your loved one can continue far beyond release from the hospital. If you are unsure how to proceed with a fight for compensation, contact us. Stewart J. Guss, Injury Accident Lawyers proudly helps Chicago motorcycle accident victims with legal action. As personal injury lawyers, we help those who suffer harm due to the negligent actions of others. The driver responsible for your motorcycle accident injuries must face accountability for their actions. Your medical bills are most likely only beginning to accumulate. Seek the help you need by hiring a member of our team as soon as possible.Chicago Motorcycle Accident Damages
Your lawyer will carefully review all evidence connected to your case to determine the best course of action. In addition to police reports and accident scene photographs, your lawyer may also interview witnesses. Therefore, it is important to share any form of possible evidence with your lawyer as they work to build the most robust case possible. Chicago motorcycle accident damages generally involve the following types of damages:- Medical costs: Rising medical costs make severe and catastrophic injuries expensive. When the injuries result from another driver’s reckless actions, they and not you should pay these costs.
- Ongoing medical expenses: Severe and catastrophic injuries can require ongoing medical care. Rehabilitation, prescription medications, and therapy are just a few examples of the types of costs you may incur.
- Lost income: The wages you missed earning due to your recovery are part of the compensation possible. Your lawyer can fight to recover your lost wages.
- Loss of potential future earnings: An especially severe injury can prevent you from ever returning to your job. The loss of your potential future earnings is damage that your lawyer may include in your claim and lawsuit.
- Pain and suffering: There is likely no aspect of your life left untouched by this tragic and possibly preventable accident. The mental anguish and overall damages you experienced are unfair and demand accountability.
The Statute of Limitations: Your Civil Case Timeclock
State law governs the amount of time allowed for pursuing a civil lawsuit. The clock begins ticking the moment you suffer your injuries. The Illinois statute of limitations for personal injury cases is two years from the date of injury. The exact amount of time 24 months applies to wrongful death cases. If your loved one survived their injuries, only to succumb to them later, the clock begins ticking at the moment of death. A motorcycle accident is a frightening and generally devastating event. Time can pass in a blur as you deal with multiple, sudden life changes. A Chicago motorcycle accident attorney can deal with the legal details of your case so that you can focus on your injuries or loss. One of the first steps your attorney will take is to ensure your civil lawsuit reaches the court within the statute of limitations. This is a crucial step as missing the deadline can prevent you from ever seeking compensation. At Stewart J. Guss, Injury Accident Lawyers, we apply our knowledge of Illinois and Chicago laws to our civil cases. Our goal is to secure the best possible outcome for our motorcycle accident clients. In addition, we manage essential paperwork, and we stand up to insurance companies. Do not miss your opportunity to file a civil lawsuit. While most personal injury and wrongful death cases settle out-of-court, reserving the right to go to trial is a vital step.Stewart J. Guss, Injury Accident Lawyers Help Chicago Motorcycle Accident Victims
The thought of contacting a lawyer may seem daunting as you worry about legal fees. However, hiring a personal injury lawyer is easier than you may think. At Stewart J. Guss, Injury Accident Lawyers, we work on a contingency-fee-basis. This means that you only pay our legal fees if and when we win your case. Therefore, we do not require a retainer or deposit. Our firm is here to help you through this challenging time. The immediate changes to your life due to a careless Chicago driver are a severe matter. While there is no fast fix to your situation, moving forward is easier with a personal injury lawyer by your side. Insurance companies typically fight personal injury claims by offering low-sum settlements. In addition, some insurance companies attempt to blame the victim for the accident. Negotiating with insurance companies is stressful for accident victims. It also places victims at risk for accepting less than they deserve. Pursuing a civil claim and lawsuit is a one-time opportunity, requiring the best effort possible. Your lawyer from Stewart J. Guss, Injury Accident Lawyers can counter insurance company tactics in a way that protects your best interests. Without a lawyer, you risk loss and disappointment.Your Chicago Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Riding your motorcycle in and around Chicago should not result in life-altering harm. However, if another driver failed to share the road, causing you severe damages, a lawyer can help you fight for compensation. Hiring a lawyer to manage the details of your case can save you time and precious energy. In addition, your lawyer can update you regarding the latest developments in your case. Get the peace of mind necessary for your recovery by contacting Stewart J. Guss, Injury Accident Lawyers today. Your Chicago motorcycle injuries and the accident that caused them are serious matters. However, pursuing a personal injury claim and lawsuit is a complex process that requires a professional and knowledgeable approach. At Stewart J. Guss, Injury Accident Lawyers, we want to help you by applying our experience and understanding of Illinois civil law. If you or a loved one’s love of riding motorcycles turned tragic due to a negligent driver, contact us now for a free case evaluation.Chicago Motorcycle Accident Lawyer: Frequently Asked Questions
A motorcycle accident can leave you with more than serious injuries or a loss; it can also cause significant financial stress. Severe injuries or a tragic loss due to another driver’s negligence can forever change your life. The harm you or a loved one suffered was likely preventable and not fair. The following frequently asked questions can help guide you as you consider pursuing compensation for your damages:#1. What Does Negligence Mean?
A driver is generally negligent when they fail to use the same care another driver would use in similar circumstances. For example, a driver who chooses to drink and drive is typically negligent when they cause a traumatic motorcycle accident. Proving negligence is where a lawyer can help your case. Personal injury lawyers familiar with civil law can get to work building your case. A police report serves as a valuable form of evidence as it can indicate any charges filed. A negligent driver can face liability for the damage caused to accident victims. In addition, the driver responsible for your accident may face criminal charges. However, this does not prevent you from pursuing a civil case. A civil lawyer understands how to apply state law to your motorcycle accident case. The outcome of a criminal case has no bearing as you pursue compensation for your motorcycle accident damages.#2. Why Types of Damages Are Typical in a Motorcycle Accident?
Motorcycle operators are at risk for severe injuries due to a lack of protection. Wearing a helmet is optional in Illinois but can help protect riders from severe head and brain injuries. Extensive medical costs can begin once you accept transport to the hospital or a trauma center. The medical bills continue to climb as you learn the severity of your injuries. A personal injury lawyer from Stewart J. Guss, Injury Accident Lawyers can fight for the following types of compensation on your behalf:- Lost wages
- Medical costs
- Pain and suffering
#3. What Types of Expenses Occur With Severe Injuries?
A brain injury, broken bones, or a devastating spinal cord injury can affect your ability to work. Unfortunately, returning to work is not an option for some motorcycle accident victims. Caring for someone with catastrophic injuries is difficult for many families. Placing your loved one in a skilled nursing facility is never easy yet sometimes necessary. A severe traumatic brain injury, for example, can require more care than you can provide. Around-the-clock care is expensive, resulting in thousands per month. When your loved one requires this and other types of care, the responsible party should pay these expenses. Motorcycle accident victims can also incur the following types of injury expenses:- Air ambulance flight to a trauma center
- Hospital and doctors’ fees
- Rehabilitation
- Physical, occupational, and other types of therapies
- Medical equipment
- Medications
#4. Can I Negotiate With an Insurance Company Alone?
Negotiating with an insurance company alone is never a good idea. An insurance adjuster may offer you a settlement before you have time to hire an attorney. If they pressure you to accept their offer, refer them to your attorney. Any attempts to negotiate with an insurance company alone can leave you without compensation. While there is never a guarantee of compensation, negotiating alone is risky. Accident victims unfamiliar with insurance company tactics generally experience stress and disappointment. Accepting a settlement alone can prevent you from pursuing compensation later, should your medical condition worsen. An insurance settlement closes your claim, making it impossible to seek additional compensation later. You may not understand this as you deal with your significant life changes. A lawyer can protect you by fighting for fair compensation and not what an insurance company wants to pay. At Stewart J. Guss, Injury Accident Lawyers, our experience includes working with various insurance companies. Our team is familiar with tactics aimed at confusing accident victims. Let us handle pushy insurance adjusters if one contacts you, sign nothing and hire a lawyer.#5. Can I Sue if a Loved One Dies of Their Injuries?
You may pursue a wrongful death claim and lawsuit if a close loved one dies of motorcycle injuries. Illinois law requires a “personal representative” to file the wrongful death action. In many cases, the personal representative is the surviving spouse, parent, or adult child. Receiving word about your loved one’s death turns your world upside down. The permanence of your loss can break your heart as you mourn your loss. Learning that the accident was most likely preventable can cause you to feel angry and frustrated. Among multiple emotions, you experience worry and anxiety about your damages. Unfortunately, bills and expenses do not stop due to your loved one’s death. A Chicago wrongful death attorney can help you fight for:- Medical expenses relating to life-saving efforts: If your loved one did not die immediately, you may include compensation for their final medical expenses in your civil claim and lawsuit.
- Funeral and burial costs: Funeral costs can catch a family unprepared. A funeral can far exceed your savings, with costs ranging in the thousands.
- Lost wages: If your loved one contributed financially to the household, you may qualify for their lost wages. The loss of future earning capacity or inheritance for children is also possible in a wrongful death case.
- Loss of relationship: The companion and friendship you shared with your loved one are priceless. Conveying the value of this portion of your loss is best left to a wrongful death attorney.
#6. Can I Afford an Attorney for My Chicago Motorcycle Accident?
Accident victims can generally afford a civil lawyer due to how they collect legal fees. At Stewart J. Guss, Injury Accident Lawyers, we collect our fee if and when we secure compensation for you. Simply put, if we do not win your case, you do not pay our legal fees. Hiring a lawyer serves a variety of purposes. For one, your lawyer can handle the details of your case. This can include such things as important case filing deadlines, phone calls, and interviewing witnesses. The truth when it comes to accident victims is that not hiring a lawyer can potentially cause you additional harm. An aggressive insurance company can confuse you with various tactics designed to underpay or not pay compensation you both need and deserve. A personal injury or wrongful death lawyer can counter insurance company tactics and negotiate a fair settlement. If your lawyer must proceed to court, they will keep you informed every step of the way. If you suffered severe injuries or lost a loved one due to a negligent driver, take swift action and contact us today.#7. Why Should I Hire Stewart J. Guss, Injury Accident Lawyers?
Hiring a civil lawyer is an essential step in your pursuit of possible compensation. Stewart J. Guss, Injury Accident Lawyers work hard to provide our clients with quality customer service. Compassion is just one component of how we approach client care. Chicago motorcycle accident victims seeking a lawyer can learn more from our past clients. Testimonials regarding client experiences can help make your decision easier. No one civil case is alike. The outcome of every case depends upon various factors. While compensation is never promised, pursuing a fair settlement can outweigh accepting less than you deserve. Your motorcycle accident was traumatic enough. Dealing with multiple medical professionals or planning a funeral leaves you no time to deal with your claim and lawsuit. By hiring a lawyer from our firm, you can rest easy knowing we are working on your case. Let us take on reluctant and uncooperative insurance companies on your behalf. We will work hard to secure the best possible outcome of your case.Why Must I Contact a Lawyer Now?
Hiring a personal injury or wrongful death lawyer as soon as possible is vital for several reasons:- Statute of limitations: you must file your lawsuit within the statute of limitations
- Accessing evidence: witnesses may forget important details, and evidence can become lost
- Building a case takes time: you must act quickly so that your lawyer has time to build your case
How Do I Get My Free Case Evaluation?
Chicago motorcycle accident victims can reach our office either online or by phone. A free case evaluation helps us and you learn more about your accident and options for moving forward. The civil process typically starts with a personal injury or wrongful death claim. Most civil cases settle without going to trial. Your lawyer can determine the best steps for your particular case. Riding a motorcycle is exhilarating and a personal choice of many Chicago residents. No one should suffer extensive harm or permanent loss due to a negligent driver. Defensive driving only goes so far in protecting your motorcycle ride. Unfortunately, there is generally no escaping an out-of-control vehicle along Chicago’s busy streets. If you suffered severe injuries or lost a close loved one, a lawyer from Stewart J. Guss, Injury Accident Lawyers can help you fight for justice. Let us learn more about you by reaching out for a free case evaluation today.Stewart J. Guss, Injury Accident Lawyers: Helping Chicago Motorcycle Accident Lawyers
A motorcycle ride that turns tragic is a shocking and life-altering event. Unfortunately, the reality of your situation can hit you soon after arriving at the hospital or a trauma center. Stress and worry about your present condition and your future needs are understandable. Accident victims must adjust to significant changes changes that result from the careless actions of another person. Holding the responsible person accountable for your harm may just prevent them from ever acting negligently again. Stand up for your motorcycle accident damages with help from a member of our team. The legal team of Stewart J. Guss, Injury Accident Lawyers, is nationally recognized for protecting the rights of injured victims for more than 20 years. If you were injured in a Chicago motorcycle accident, call our office right now for a free consultation! Because we take all of our motorcycle accident cases on a contingency fee basis, you will not owe us a dime unless we win your case. We are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, so call us today at 800-898-4877 or contact us now by clicking here.Why Take Chances? Let Us Help You! Free Virtual Consultations & Our Response to the Coronavirus & Covid19 - CLICK HERE