Motorcycle Accident Lawyers in Philadelphia, PA: Protecting Your Rights

Motorcycles are synonymous with freedom, speed, and a unique way to experience the road, but they also come with increased risks. When an accident happens, the consequences can be devastating. Motorcyclists are more exposed than other drivers, often suffering severe or even life-threatening injuries. If you’ve been involved in a motorcycle crash, it's crucial to understand your rights and the steps you can take to protect them.

We understand how overwhelming this time may be for you and your family. We will walk you through the key points about motorcycle accidents in Philadelphia and how to seek fair compensation for your losses.

Why Motorcycle Accidents Are So Dangerous

Unlike cars and trucks, motorcycles offer little protection during a crash. Riders are vulnerable to the full force of impact from another vehicle, the road surface, and surrounding structures.

Common injuries include:

• Traumatic brain injuries (TBIs)
• Spinal cord injuries
• Broken bones and fractures
• Road rash and severe abrasions
• Internal injuries
• Permanent disfigurement or disability

These injuries often require long-term medical care, physical therapy, and, in many cases, result in a major change to your way of life. For victims and their families, the emotional and financial burdens can be immense.

Motorcycle Accidents in Pennsylvania: The Numbers

Pennsylvania ranks among the top states for motorcycle registrations, but unfortunately, also for motorcycle-related injuries and deaths. According to PennDOT, there were 3,524 motorcycle crashes in Pennsylvania in 2023, with 226 fatalities and thousands more suffering injuries.

Philadelphia, as a densely populated urban area with heavy traffic, sees a significant portion of these accidents. Many involve other drivers failing to see motorcyclists or misjudging their speed and distance. Sadly, many of these crashes could have been prevented.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle crashes often happen because of another party’s negligence. Some of the most common causes include:

• Left-turn accidents: A driver turns left in front of an oncoming motorcycle.
• Lane changes: Drivers fail to check blind spots before switching lanes.
• Distracted driving: Texting, eating, or adjusting controls while driving leads to collisions.
• Following too closely: Rear-end collisions are especially dangerous for motorcyclists.
• Speeding and reckless driving: Both drivers and riders may contribute to dangerous situations.
• Failure to yield or obey traffic laws: These violations often result in high-impact crashes.

It's important to gather evidence after a crash to determine exactly what happened and who’s responsible.

What to Do After a Motorcycle Accident in Philadelphia

Taking the right steps after an accident can help preserve your legal rights and strengthen your potential claim. Here’s what to do if you’re physically able:

1. Call 911 immediately and report the accident.
2. Seek medical attention, even for minor injuries. Some symptoms may appear later.
3. Document the scene with photos of your bike, the other vehicles, and any visible injuries.
4. Get contact information from all parties involved, as well as any witnesses.
5. Request a police report and make sure your version of events is recorded.
6. Avoid making statements to the other driver’s insurance company until you’ve spoken with an attorney.

Your focus should be on recovery. Let a motor vehicle accident attorney help with the rest.

What Compensation Can Motorcycle Accident Victims Recover?

If another party is responsible for your crash, you may be entitled to compensation for both financial and personal losses. This can include:

Medical Costs

Past, present, and future medical treatment, including emergency care, surgeries, rehabilitation, and prescriptions.

Lost Wages and Earning Capacity

If your injuries keep you from working temporarily or permanently, you may be compensated for lost income.

Pain and Suffering

Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, trauma, and reduced quality of life.

Property Damage

This includes your motorcycle, gear, helmet, and any other personal items damaged in the crash.

Wrongful Death

In fatal accidents, surviving family members may pursue damages for loss of companionship, funeral costs, and financial support.

Every case is different, and a qualified attorney can help assess the true value of your claim.

Understanding Pennsylvania Motorcycle Laws

Motorcyclists in Pennsylvania are subject to specific rules, and understanding them can influence how your claim is handled. Some key points include:

• Helmet laws: Helmets are required unless the rider is over 21 and has either two years of riding experience or completed a motorcycle safety course.
• Insurance requirements: All riders must carry minimum liability coverage. However, many victims discover too late that minimum policies don’t cover the full extent of their losses.
• Comparative negligence: Pennsylvania follows a modified comparative fault rule. If you're found to be partially at fault, your compensation may be reduced by your percentage of fault, as long as it's less than 51%.

These legal details can significantly impact your case, making professional guidance even more valuable.

The Importance of Legal Representation

Motorcycle accident cases are different from other types of vehicle crashes. Insurance companies often try to place blame on the rider, playing into negative stereotypes about motorcyclists being reckless or irresponsible.

Having a knowledgeable attorney on your side helps level the playing field. An experienced legal team can:

• Conduct a thorough investigation of the crash
• Handle communication and negotiations with insurance companies
• Work with medical experts to understand the extent of your injuries
• Fight for the full compensation you deserve, whether in or out of court

Most importantly, they can provide peace of mind during a painful and uncertain time.

You Don’t Have to Go Through This Alone

The aftermath of a motorcycle accident can leave you in physical pain, emotionally shaken, and unsure of what to do next. But you don’t have to face these challenges on your own. If you or a loved one has been injured in a motorcycle accident in Philadelphia, reaching out for legal support can make all the difference.

Edelstein, Martin & Nelson has years of experience standing up for injury victims across Pennsylvania. Our team knows how to handle complex motorcycle accident claims, and they’re ready to fight for the compensation you deserve.

We offer 100% free consultations, are available 24/7, and you pay no fees unless they win. That means you can speak with a lawyer, get answers, and make informed decisions without risking anything upfront.

Schedule a call today at 888-630-4409. Let us help you move forward with strength, clarity, and the support you need.