Phoenix Motorcycle Accident Lawyer
Injured in a motorcycle accident? You deserve compensation for your medical bills, lost wages, and pain and suffering. With over a decade of experience and $50+ million recovered, Runion Personal Injury Lawyers knows how to beat insurance companies at their own game.
Call (602) 825-3502 for a free case evaluation today.
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$50+ Million Recovered
Content Reviewed By: Derick Runion
Table of Contents
- What To Do After a Phoenix Motorcycle Accident
- How Runion Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help
- How Common Are Motorcycle Accidents in Arizona?
- Who’s Liable for My Phoenix Motorcycle Accident?
- Available Compensation After a Motorcycle Accident
- What Causes Most Motorcycle Wrecks in Phoenix?
- What Damages Can I Get?
- Is Lane Splitting Legal in Phoenix, AZ?
- Recovering Compensation if Blamed (Comparative Negligence)
- Frequently Asked Questions
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.
Derick Runion
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 Runion Personal Injury Lawyers Can Help If You've Been Hurt in a Motorcycle Crash in Phoenix, AZ
t can be difficult to know how to recover compensation after a motorcycle accident and from whom. Things can also get complicated when at-fault parties and insurance companies make things harder for you than they need to be.
Ultimately, you need to level the playing field and take an aggressive approach when you’re fighting to recover compensation for your motorcycle accident injuries.
That’s where a Phoenix personal injury lawyer can really help.
We know that this is your one shot at getting money to cover the costs of your medical care, make up for a sudden loss of income, and compensate for the unexpected life changes you’ve experienced. We have a proven ability to take on powerful adversaries and win big on behalf of injured motorcyclists like yourself.
When you choose Runion Personal Injury Lawyers, you benefit from a compassionate legal team with 55+ years of experience and give yourself the opportunity to really concentrate on recovering from your motorcycle accident injuries.
We will handle every aspect of your fight for compensation, including:
Providing clear answers to your most pressing motorcycle accident questions
Thoroughly investigating the details of your motorcycle wreck
Evaluating evidence we obtain throughout the discovery process
Consulting leading motorcycle accident and injury specialists
Anticipating and defending against allegations of shared responsibility
Leading settlement negotiations with at-fault parties and their insurance companies
Approaching your case as if it’s going to trial so that we are prepared to litigate in front of a jury, if necessary
You deserve top legal representation without the added stress of paying for an attorney out-of-pocket. That’s why our personal injury attorneys in Phoenix represent injured motorcyclists on a contingency fee basis. We don’t get paid unless we win your motorcycle injury claim.
Reach out to our law office in Phoenix, AZ to learn more and set up a free case assessment today.
$850,000
- Motorcycle Accident
Runion Personal Injury Lawyers secured $850,000 for a motorcyclist who was struck by a vehicle making an illegal left turn at night in North Phoenix (Cactus Rd & 52nd St). The insurance company initially denied liability, claiming the rider did not have his headlights on. Our firm retained expert witnesses who proved this claim was false, forcing the insurer to reverse its decision. Through persistent advocacy, we obtained a settlement that covered the client’s significant head and orthopedic injuries, which required internal fixation.
$500,000
- Motorcycle 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.
$364,000
- Motorcycle Accident
Runion Personal Injury Lawyers secured $364,000 for a motorcyclist in Phoenix (Thomas Rd & 52nd St) who suffered severe leg fractures when a mobile phlebotomist turned into his path and struck him. The company initially denied liability, claiming the employee was not acting within the course and scope of employment, offering only $25,000 in available coverage. Runion Personal Injury Lawyers filed suit, retained crash reconstruction and toxicology experts, and proved the driver was working at the time of the crash, forcing the company’s commercial policy to apply. After extensive litigation and approximately $30,000 in expert costs, the case resolved for $364,000.
How Common Are Motorcycle Accidents in Arizona?
More than 210,000 motorcycles are currently registered in the state of Arizona. Unfortunately, cities like Phoenix aren’t always the safest place for motorcyclists and their passengers. Statistically speaking, between 6 and 7 motorcycle accidents are recorded across the state every day.While the overall number of motorcycle accidents has declined in recent years, there are still thousands of wrecks annually.In 2020, at least 2,317 motorcycle accidents were reported in Arizona.These accidents caused no fewer than 1,921 injuries and 160 deaths.That means that about 5 motorcyclists are injured in Arizona accidents every day, while one rider is killed in a crash every 2.2 days.
What Causes Most Motorcycle Wrecks in Phoenix?
The vast majority of motorcycle accidents that happen in Phoenix are avoidable. They tend to happen when someone, often another motorist, is negligent.
Some of the most common contributing factors to Phoenix motorcycle accidents include:
Speeding
Following too closely
Distracted driving
Failing to yield the right of way
Failing to leave appropriate space between a vehicle and motorcycle when passing
Running red lights or stop signs
Drunk driving
Fatigued driving
Negligent vehicle maintenance
Improper passing
Unsafe turns
Things like limited visibility, inclement weather, road construction, and road defects can also contribute to accidents, especially when motorists are already driving carelessly.
Who's Liable for My Phoenix Motorcycle Accident?
The facts and circumstances of your specific crash determine who can be held responsible. You can potentially recover compensation from anyone whose negligence contributed to the wreck.
Potentially liable parties include:
- Drivers of passenger vehicles
- Commercial truck drivers and trucking companies
- Other motorcyclists
- Rideshare drivers (Uber/Lyft)
- Pedestrians
- Motorcycle and component manufacturers
- Helmet and safety-equipment manufacturers
- Property owners (in cases involving dangerous road or premises conditions)
- Government entities (for roadway design defects or signal failures)
- Employers of at-fault drivers (under respondeat superior)
Our team investigates every potential source of recovery. In a serious motorcycle wreck, the at-fault driver’s policy limits often aren’t enough to cover medical bills and lost wages. We routinely uncover additional layers of coverage commercial policies, umbrella policies, and underinsured motorist coverage that less experienced attorneys miss.
Available Compensation After a Motorcycle Accident
Compensation from a motorcycle collision could include economic or non-economic damages, or, in rare cases, punitive damages.
What Causes Most Motorcycle Wrecks in Phoenix?
The vast majority of motorcycle accidents in Phoenix are avoidable. They happen because someone — usually another motorist — was negligent.
The most common contributing factors we see in Phoenix motorcycle cases include:
- Left-turn collisions at signalized intersections (the single most common motorcycle crash type)
- Drivers failing to check blind spots when changing lanes
- Distracted driving (texting, phone use, infotainment screens)
- Speeding and aggressive driving
- Following too closely
- Failing to leave appropriate space when passing a motorcycle
- Running red lights or stop signs
- Drunk or impaired driving
- Drowsy driving
- Improper passing
- Unsafe lane changes
- Negligent vehicle maintenance
Phoenix-specific conditions make things worse: dust storms that reduce visibility to near zero in minutes, monsoon downpours that turn oil-slick pavement into glass, glare from low desert sun, and the seasonal surge of winter visitors who aren’t used to Valley traffic.
What Damages Can I Get If I File a Motorcycle Injury Claim in Phoenix?
The costs and consequences of a sudden motorcycle injury can be overwhelming. Fortunately, injured riders in Arizona can file a claim and seek compensatory damages from insurance carriers and at-fault parties.
Compensatory damages include economic awards and non-economic awards.
Economic damages make you financially whole after you’ve been in a motorcycle accident. They offset costs and expenses related to:
Present and future medical bills
Lost income and wages
Therapy and rehabilitation
Lost job benefits
Nursing assistance
Property damage
Out-of-pocket costs
On the other hand, non-economic damages make up for the unexpected and traumatic life changes you might experience as a motorcycle accident victim. This could help you recover compensation for things like:
Emotional distress
Pain and suffering
Reduced quality of life
Post-traumatic stress disorder
Physical scarring
Our personal injury attorneys in Phoenix will carefully consider how your accident has affected and changed your life and how it might impact you for years to come. We’ll consult leading accident experts and specialists, working hard to fully appreciate the full scope and extent of the injuries you sustained.
These efforts can help us win a financial award that really reflects what your Phoenix motorcycle accident case is worth.
Is Lane Splitting Legal in Phoenix, AZ?
Arizona recently became the second state to legalize the practice of lane splitting or moving between two lanes of traffic.
Under a new state law, riders are permitted to split lanes on roads when:
The speed limit is 45 MPH or less;
Traffic is stopped;
Roads have at least two or more lanes traveling in the same direction; and
Lane splitting can be accomplished safely.
When lane splitting, motorcyclists must not exceed 15 MPH.
In other situations – such as traveling on I-17 or I-10 – lane splitting is still illegal.
It’s important to adhere to Arizona’s new lane-splitting law. If you split lanes in violation of the law and it contributes to a wreck, it could affect your ability to recover compensation.
Can I Recover Compensation If I'm Getting Blamed for a Phoenix Motorcycle Accident?
Yes, but only if you’re not entirely to blame for the motorcycle accident. Arizona operates under a pure comparative negligence system. Everyone who contributes to a wreck – including victims – shares liability for resulting damages.
Liability is shared proportionately. So, the larger the role you played in causing the accident, the less money you’ll ultimately be able to recover in a related claim for damages.
Let’s say you’re assigned 50 percent fault for a motorcycle wreck (and resulting injuries) because you were lane splitting and weren’t wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. In turn, your financial award would be reduced by half.
Prepare to be blamed for your motorcycle accident, even if those allegations are untrue or exaggerated. After all, at-fault parties and their insurance companies will work hard to limit how much money they have to pay for your injuries.
Our motorcycle accident attorneys in Phoenix will be ready to defend you against these victim-blaming tactics. We’ll demand hard evidence to back up these claims and work hard to gather evidence of our own to contest them.
About Derick Runion
This page was written and legally reviewed by Derick Runion, Founding Partner of Runion Personal Injury Lawyers. Derick is an Arizona native, a double graduate of Arizona State University (B.A. Political Science, summa cum laude; J.D. from Sandra Day O’Connor College of Law), and has been licensed in Arizona since 2011 and New Mexico since 2020. Before founding the firm, Derick worked inside the insurance industry — experience that now helps him level the playing field for injury victims across Phoenix and Maricopa County.
Prior results do not guarantee a similar outcome. Every case is evaluated on its own facts.
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.
How Is Fault Decided in a Motorcycle Accident in Phoenix?
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.
What Are the Specific Laws for Motorcyclists in Arizona?
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
Can I Sue if I Was a Passenger in a Motorcycle Crash in Phoenix?
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.
What Steps Should I Take if I Am Hit by a Driver Who Leaves the Scene in a Motorcycle Accident?
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.
What Role Does Insurance Play in Motorcycle Accident Cases?
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.
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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