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Phoenix Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Imagine you’re traveling toward the intersection of McDowell Road and 51st Avenue when suddenly, you’re involved in a motorcycle collision. You may be experiencing confusion in the aftermath, not just from the accident itself, but also from the process that follows in pursuing justice.

Runion Personal Injury Lawyers is here to advocate for you; we stand by our motto of Get Better. Get Compensated. Get Justice. Schedule an initial, free consultation with a Phoenix motorcycle accident lawyer at our firm by calling (602) 825-3502 today.

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$50+ Million Recovered

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Content Reviewed By: Derick Runion

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Table of Contents

What To Do After a Phoenix Motorcycle Accident

You can take proactive steps in the immediate aftermath of a motorcycle crash to protect your well-being and a potential claim.

Seek Immediate Medical Attention

It’s crucial to see a doctor, even for seemingly minor injuries. Certain injuries, like brain damage and internal bleeding, can worsen over time if not treated.

Call the Authorities and File a Report

You’ll need to alert the police of the accident to begin an official report. This report is crucial to your case, as it’ll outline the details of what occurred and determine who’s liable.

The most important thing to do after a motorcycle accident is to ensure that the authorities, the police department, can be called to scene so that they can document what’s happened.

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Gather Evidence at the Scene

Document the accident scene by taking photos and videos and gathering witness information. It’s essential to collect the contact and insurance details of all other involved parties.

Avoid Admitting Fault

Document the accident scene by taking photos and videos and gathering witness information. It’s essential to collect the contact and insurance details of all other involved parties.

Contact an Experienced Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

We recommend consulting with a Phoenix attorney as early as possible in the motorcycle accident claims process. A lawyer can help protect your rights from the outset and provide sound counsel and effective advocacy throughout.

How a Phoenix Motorcycle Accident Lawyer Can Help

A seasoned and well-versed attorney can help in numerous ways with your case, including the following steps:

  • Investigate the Accident Thoroughly
  • Help Gather Critical Evidence
  • Negotiate with Insurance Companies
  • Represent You in Court If Needed
  • Help You Understand Arizona Motorcycle Laws

At Runion Personal Injury Lawyers, our team has an extensive background in handling motorcycle accident cases in Arizona. We have over a decade of experience in the Valley’s legal realm, a strong track record,  and in-depth knowledge of Arizona laws. Our case results highlight our hard work and dedication:

$364,000

  • Car Accident

Secured $364,000 for a client who was injured in a motorcycle collision when a defendant made a sudden turn into his path. Despite the defendant initially denying liability and claiming only limited insurance coverage, strategic depositions and expert testimony ultimately uncovered the truth, resulting in a six-figure settlement for the client.

$500,000

  • Car Accident

Secured $500,000 for a client who was injured in a motorcycle crash caused by a DUI driver who made an illegal left turn in front of him. Despite the defendant being cited for DUI and other violations, the defendant’s insurance company attempted to shift blame onto our client. With expert testimony and strategic legal action, we secured full compensation for the client.

Common Injuries Following Motorcycle Accidents in Phoenix

Motorcyclists are 28 times more likely to die in a crash per mile traveled compared to occupants of passenger vehicles. Due to their lack of outer protection, these individuals are at a higher risk of serious, fatal injuries.

Traumatic Brain Injuries

Head trauma from a motorcycle crash can range from mild concussions to severe brain damage, potentially leading to permanent disability or death. Wearing a helmet can reduce the risk of head injury by 69 percent and the risk of death by 42 percent.

Spinal Cord Injuries

Motorcycle collisions are a leading cause of spinal cord injuries, accounting for about 40 percent. Several types of spinal cord injuries can occur in a motorcycle wreck, leading to permanent paralysis and requiring lifelong medical care and rehabilitation.

Broken Bones and Fractures

Broken bones and fractures, including in the arms, legs, ribs, and pelvis, can occur in a motorcycle accident. Treatment for these injuries may involve surgery or physical therapy, depending on the severity of the trauma.

Road Rash and Soft Tissue Injuries

Road rash and soft tissue damage are frequent injuries that motorcyclists sustain in a crash. These injuries occur when a rider’s skin scrapes against the pavement and can range from mild abrasions to deep wounds that require skin grafts and plastic surgery. Wearing protective clothing, such as gloves, jackets, and heavy boots, can help reduce the severity of these injuries.

Internal Injuries

Damage to internal organs, like the lungs, liver, and spleen, is common in high-impact motorcycle accidents. These can be life-threatening and require immediate surgery and intensive care after a crash. Some signs may include abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, and signs of shock.

What To Expect From the Phoenix Motorcycle Accident Process

Once you schedule a free consultation with our team and we assist you in filing a motorcycle accident claim, the next step is the investigation and discovery phase. During this process, our team will analyze the incident details and partner with experts and accident reconstructionists as necessary. The goal is to determine what happened and who is liable.

Following this, our attorneys will negotiate a fair settlement with insurers. We stop at nothing to ensure you get the compensation you deserve. If necessary, we won’t hesitate to take your case to trial and guide you through the entire process. All of this is done with the statute of limitations in mind, which allows you to file a claim within two years from the date of the accident.

Available Compensation After a Motorcycle Accident

Compensation from a motorcycle collision could include economic or non-economic damages, or, in rare cases, punitive damages.

Economic Damages

Economic damages are the tangible, objective losses you experience after a personal injury. These could include any of the following:

  • Medical Expenses – Surgery, doctor’s visits, medication, ambulance fees
  • Lost Wages – Missed work days and reduced earning capacity
  • Property Damage – Compensation to repair or replace your vehicle
  • Rehabilitation and Future Medical Care – Physical therapy and other future medical needs

Non-Economic Damages

Non-economic damages are intangible, subjective losses. These consist of compensation for the following:

  • Pain and Suffering – Chronic pain from injuries
  • Emotional Distress – Psychological trauma and PTSD
  • Loss of Enjoyment of Life – A reduced quality of life due to permanent disability
  • Loss of Consortium – Loss of a loved one due to a wrongful death

What are Punitive Damages?

Courts may award punitive damages in cases of especially egregious behavior. The purpose of these damages is to punish the defendant and deter similar actions in the future. Cases where punitive damages may be awarded include those involving wrongful death or extreme drunk driving.

Why You Should Choose Runion Personal Injury Lawyers for Your Motorcycle Accident Claim

Our Phoenix motorcycle accident lawyers are your go-to team for any case involving an auto collision. We offer free consultations, service in English and Spanish, as well as a Net Recovery Guarantee, which ensures that you will never pay us more in legal fees than you recover from your case. Founded in 2011, we boast a 99 percent success rate with over $50 million recovered.

Our founding partner, Derick Runion, is a one-time Super Lawyers Rising Star and Arizona native. He grew up in Phoenix and attended undergraduate and law school at Arizona State University. Runion’s previous experience within the insurance industry gives him a leg up when negotiating with insurers on behalf of his clients. Learn more today by scheduling an initial consultation.

I was in a terrible motorcycle accident that almost took my leg, then my life! I spent weeks in the hospital and felt so insecure about what to do next… my neighbor recommended Runion personal injury lawyers. I am SO GRATEFUL for this wonderful firm! Everyone was on it! Derek lead me the whole way with truth and confidence! The best part of the experience was working with my paralegal Amber! She did so much extra leg work and additional research to make sure I got the most out of my settlement! I couldn’t have asked for a better team!

David

Great experience with Runion Personal Injury Lawyers!!! Very professional, organized and empathic to my situation. They were able to solve my case much faster than I expected, highly recommended!

Mark Chadwick

I highly recommend this law firm! I was a victim in a hit-and-run and didn’t know what, if anything, I was entitled to. I was referred to Runion Personal Injury Lawyers by a friend, and they were in touch with me that night! Whitney Larson and her team were amazing! They quickly found me a doctor and chiropractor at no expense, navigated complications with the insurance company, advised me on the criminal aspect of the case, and fought to get me the maximum amount allowed in my settlement. They were always professional with a family feel, and I would happily refer anyone to them!

Christopher B.

Frequently Asked Questions About Motorcycle Accidents

Should I Hire a Motorcycle Accident Lawyer in Phoenix if the Accident Was Minor?

Even when dealing with seemingly minor incidents, it’s always a good idea to partner with an attorney. Your legal representation can ensure your case is filed within the statute of limitations with the correct evidence and documentation.

Personal injury liability or fault in a motorcycle accident in Phoenix is typically determined based on negligence, which involves acting carelessly or violating traffic laws. Arizona is an at-fault and comparative negligence state, which means multiple parties can share responsibility, and damages are reduced according to each party’s percentage of fault.

Arizona has several specific laws unique to motorcyclists, including the following:

  • Motorcyclists and passengers under 18 must wear a helmet, per A.R.S. § 28-964(A)
  • Lane splitting is illegal in Arizona per A.R.S. § 28-903
  • Motorcyclists must carry minimum liability insurance
  • Motorcycles must be equipped with:
    • At least one mirror
    • At least one headlight is required to be on at all times, day and night
    • Functioning brake lights and turn signals
    • Proper exhaust system
    • Seat and footrests for both rider and passenger
  • To operate a motorcycle legally, you must have:
    • A valid Arizona driver’s license with a motorcycle endorsement
    • Or a Class M license

Yes, passengers in motorcycle crashes in Phoenix can sue another party. Depending on who caused the crash, you may have a claim against the motorcyclist or another driver. You can sue both parties if they each contributed to the wreck, and your damages will be apportioned based on their percentages of fault.

If the other driver leaves the scene of the accident, also known as a hit-and-run, you should immediately report the incident to the police. They can initiate an investigation to identify the other driver by reviewing traffic footage and witness statements. If you have any injuries, it’s essential to seek medical attention promptly to receive proper treatment.

Insurance plays a crucial role in motorcycle accident cases because it helps cover the significant damages resulting from crashes. Given the often catastrophic nature of motorcycle accidents due to the lack of protection compared to a vehicle, it is vital to assess the insurance policies involved. This includes determining the limits of coverage as quickly as possible. Additionally, insurance is important when evaluating all potential sources of liability, as there could be other parties responsible for the accident, such as those related to road design defects. In such cases, insurance is a key resource for seeking compensation.

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Case Results

Over $50 Million recovered

$4,600,000

  • Wrongful Death

Our law firm represented the surviving family members of a doctor who passed away tragically after receiving a fatal dose of a central nervous system depressant in a recreational setting. Despite the insurance company’s zero offer to settle pre-litigation, we secured a substantial recovery of $4.6 million for our clients.

$600,000

  • Car Accident

Our client was involved in a serious collision while driving her vehicle, resulting in head trauma and other injuries. Runion Personal Injury Lawyers presented scientific evidence to link her aneurysm to the automobile collision and obtained a $600,000.00 settlement for the client.

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What Our Clients Say

Great law firm. Very responsive and took care of me and all my needs, as well as consistently checking on me and how I was doing with my treatment. Derrick was outstanding, and I wouldn’t use anybody else and I recommend him to anybody else who needs an attorney. Thanks again Derrick!

Dillan G.

Runion Personal Injury Lawyers truly came through for me after my truck accident. Between my injuries, my wrecked car, and a shady trucking insurance company, I didn’t know what to do. Their team handled everything from start to finish, knew A LOT about Truck law in Phoenix, AZ and fought to get me the compensation I deserved!! I couldn’t have asked for a more dedicated and supportive group! ❤️🙏🏼

Jessica J.

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