Rockford Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

When Your Rockford Motorcycle Crash Injuries Aren’t Your Fault

Motorcycle accidents can be devastating, resulting in severe injuries or even fatalities. When you’ve been in a motorcycle accident in Rockford, Illinois, and it wasn’t your fault, the law gives you the right to seek compensation from the at-fault parties. The process of obtaining this compensation is not a simple one, however.

Consulting with our experienced Rockford motorcycle accident lawyers from Malman Law can make a significant difference in the outcome of your case.

If you believe that your motorcycle crash injuries were caused by someone else’s negligence, we can investigate what happened and gather evidence to support your claim. This may include photographs of the accident scene, witness statements, police reports, and medical records related to your injuries. Your lawyer will use this evidence to build a strong case on your behalf.

At Malman Law, our team of Rockford motorcycle accident attorneys has extensive experience handling cases like yours. We are committed to fighting for your rights and obtaining the maximum compensation possible for your injuries. Consultations are free, so don’t wait to learn more about your rights and options today.

Illinois Motorcycle Accident Statistics

Illinois law allows motorcyclists to use the roads and highways like any other vehicle operator. Unfortunately, drivers of cars, SUVs, and trucks are not as careful and vigilant as they should be regarding smaller vehicles, so motorcycle accidents in Illinois are too common.  

Consider the following statistics for a recent year in Illinois:

• Illinois recorded a total of 2,843 motorcycle crashes.
• Out of those crashes, 148 were fatal, resulting in the loss of 154 lives.
• Non-fatal injuries were reported in 2,334 accidents.
• Motorcycle accidents accounted for 14.5% of all traffic fatalities in the state.

These statistics illustrate the significant risk that motorcyclists face on Illinois roads and the need for legal assistance in seeking compensation for their injuries.

The more we hold drivers liable for causing preventable injuries to motorcyclists, the safer drivers might hopefully be in the future with regard to sharing the road. Malman Law believes that everyone deserves to get to their destinations safely, no matter how you are traveling. If you don’t, we’re ready to fight for your rights. 

Motorcycle Accident Cases in Illinois

When a driver hits you on a motorcycle, you might think the situation is fairly straightforward: the driver’s insurance should pay you for your medical bills and other losses, right? Sadly, injured motorcyclists run into many obstacles and roadblocks in the legal process, making legal representation from a Rockford motorcycle accident lawyer critical. 

Motorcycle accident cases in Illinois can be complicated, involving multiple parties, insurance companies, and legal issues. Here are a few legal aspects that might arise when pursuing a motorcycle accident claim:

Comparative Negligence

Illinois follows a comparative negligence rule when determining fault in personal injury cases. This means that even if you were partially at fault for the accident, you may still be eligible to receive compensation for your injuries. However, your compensation will be reduced by the percentage of fault assigned to you.

Insurance companies often have a bias against motorcyclists, painting them to be reckless individuals who take risks and put themselves in harm’s way on the road. This is usually not true, and our attorneys can challenge wrongful accusations by insurers that you were to blame – even partially – for your motorcycle accident. 

Statute of Limitations

In Illinois, the statute of limitations for filing a personal injury claim, including motorcycle accident cases, is generally two years from the date of the accident. This means you must act promptly and consult with our Rockford motorcycle accident attorneys now to ensure you meet all the necessary deadlines.

Insurance Requirements

Illinois law requires all motorcyclists to carry liability insurance with minimum coverage limits. In the case of an accident, insurance coverage may play a significant role in compensating for your injuries. Malman Law can help you deal with various insurance companies and ensure that you receive the maximum compensation possible. 

Common Causes Of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents can for many reasons, but driver negligence is the most common factor. Some common causes include:

• Distracted Driving: Drivers who are texting, talking on the phone, or engaged in other distractions can cause serious accidents involving motorcycles.
• Failure to Yield: Drivers who fail to yield the right of way to motorcycles at intersections or during lane changes can cause accidents and severe injuries.
• Drunk Driving: Operating a vehicle under the influence of alcohol or drugs significantly impairs a driver’s ability to react and increases the risk of accidents.
• Speeding: Excessive speed reduces a driver’s reaction time and increases the severity of injuries in the event of a crash.
• Left-Turn Accidents: Many motorcycle accidents occur when a vehicle makes a left turn in front of an oncoming motorcycle, failing to yield the right of way.

Understanding the common causes of motorcycle accidents can help you identify when someone else should be liable and strengthen your case when seeking compensation. 

Car Accidents vs. Motorcycle Accidents

While car accidents and motorcycle accidents share certain similarities, there are also key differences that can have a significant impact on your legal claims. Here are a few points of comparison to consider:

• Severity of Injuries: Motorcycle accidents often result in more severe injuries compared to car accidents due to the lack of protection for the rider.
• Visibility: Motorcycles are smaller and less visible than cars, making them more susceptible to accidents caused by drivers who fail to see them.
• Insurance Coverage: Motorcycle insurance policies differ from car insurance policies, and understanding these differences can be beneficial in obtaining adequate compensation.
• Prejudice: There is often a bias against motorcyclists, with some people assuming they are reckless or at fault in accidents. Overcoming this bias is a key element of a successful motorcycle accident claim.

Motorcycle accident claims often require the experience of a dedicated motorcycle accident lawyer. Fortunately, in the Rockford area, Malman Law is ready to help.

Maximizing Your Rockford Motorcycle Accident Claim

When pursuing a motorcycle accident claim in Rockford, it’s essential to take certain steps to maximize your chances of receiving fair compensation:

• Seek Medical Attention: Even if your injuries seem minor, it’s crucial to seek medical attention immediately after the accident. Some injuries may not manifest immediately, and documenting your injuries is essential for your claim.
• Preserve Evidence: Take photographs of the accident scene, your injuries, and any property damage if you can with your injuries. Collect contact information from witnesses and gather all relevant documents, such as police reports and medical records.
• Do Not Give Statements: Avoid giving any statements to insurance adjusters or the at-fault party’s representatives without consulting with your attorney first. Anything you say may be used against you later.
• Consult with Our Attorneys: Hiring our experienced Rockford motorcycle accident attorney can help maximize your claim and ease your stress. We will assess your case, negotiate with insurance companies, and fight for your rights every step of the way.

Speak with a Rockford Motorcycle Accident Attorney

If you have injuries and losses from a motorcycle accident in Rockford, IL, don’t hesitate to seek legal representation from a trusted team. At Malman Law, our dedicated Rockford motorcycle accident attorneys are ready to advocate for your rights and help you obtain the compensation you deserve. Contact us today for a free consultation to learn more about how we can assist you with your case.

Areas We Serve

Chicago Motorcycle Accident Lawyer