Las Vegas Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

The lack of protective barriers between a motorcycle and the road, as well as the difficulty that other motorists may have in anticipating and seeing a motorcycle rider, leaves riders prone to serious and life-altering injuries in the event of an accident. Many of these collisions are fatal.

Motorcycle riders and their families, therefore, must be aware of their legal rights and remedies if they are involved in a traffic accident. Hanratty Law Group can provide this information and help following a motorcycle crash. Contact us today at 702-570-9287 for a free consultation and let us fight for your rights.

Personal Injury Risks For Motorcyclists

The risks that riders face become readily apparent through the following statistics:

• In 66 percent of motorcycle accidents involving another vehicle, the driver of the other vehicle violated the rider’s right of way and caused the accident.
• Motorcyclists are about 26 times more likely to die in a crash than someone riding in a passenger car and are 5 times as likely to be seriously injured.

Motorcyclists have to deal with significant problems each and every time they engage in travel, such as:

• Visual recognition: Motorcycles make smaller visual targets, which are more likely to be obscured by other vehicles, or by road and weather conditions.
• Road hazards: Hazards that are minor irritations for an automobile can be a major hazard for a motorcycle rider. These include potholes, oil slicks, puddles, debris, or other objects on the roadway, ruts, uneven pavement, and railroad tracks.

Immediate Steps After a Motorcycle Accident in Las Vegas

The moments following a motorcycle crash can be chaotic and confusing. However, taking immediate and appropriate steps can significantly impact the outcome of your motorcycle accident case. Ensuring your safety and protecting your legal rights should be your top priorities:

1. Seek Medical Attention: Immediately get medical help, even if you think your injuries are minor.
2. Document the Scene: Take detailed photos of the accident scene, including damages, road conditions, and any visible injuries.
3. Contact Law Enforcement: Ensure the accident is officially recorded by law enforcement.
4. Gather Information: Collect contact information from witnesses and other parties involved in the accident.
5. Notify Your Insurance Company: Report the accident to your insurance company as soon as possible.
6. Consult a Lawyer: Contact a motorcycle accident lawyer to understand your legal rights and options.

Taking these steps can help protect your health, preserve evidence, and strengthen your legal claim.

Common Causes of Motorcycle Accidents in Las Vegas

Negligence and failure to exercise reasonable care are among the primary causes of these motorcycle accidents in Las Vegas. Some common causes include:

• Distracted driving
• Speeding
• Drunk driving
• Lane splitting
• Failure to yield the right of way
• Unsafe lane changes
• Tailgating
• Inexperienced riders
• Poor road conditions
• Head-on collisions
• Sideswipe crashes

Hazardous road conditions like potholes, debris, and ruts pose substantial risks to motorcycle riders.

Defective Motorcycle Design Or A Manufacturing Mistake

Although several factors can contribute to a motorcycle accident, a defect in a motorcycle’s design or manufacture may be a potential cause of an accident, especially one in which no other vehicles were involved.

The lawyers at Hanratty Law Group can fully evaluate any relevant product liability issues or recalls involving your motorcycle and can help determine whether you have a claim against the motorcycle manufacturer for your injuries.

Typical Injuries from Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycle accidents often result in severe injuries due to the lack of protection compared to other vehicles. Approximately 79% of motorcycle crashes result in some type of injury, compared to 37% of car crashes. In motorcycle accident cases, common injuries include:

• Spinal cord injuries
• Broken bones
• Amputations
• Facial injuries
• Traumatic brain injuries
• Road rash

These injuries can have long-term or even permanent effects. For example, rib fractures can lead to serious internal injuries to thoracic and abdominal organs. Head injuries are particularly common and can result in traumatic brain injuries, which may require extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.

Legal Rights and Options for Injured Motorcyclists

Injured motorcyclists in Nevada have several legal options to seek compensation for the damages they have incurred. These options include filing an insurance claim or pursuing a personal injury lawsuit:

• Filing an Insurance Claim:
  • Typically faster and less complex.
  • Suitable for cases where liability is clear and the insurance company offers a fair settlement.
  • Involves fewer legal costs and can often be resolved through negotiation.
  • Ideal for minor to moderate injuries where the compensation offered covers medical expenses and damages.
• Pursuing a Personal Injury Lawsuit:
  • Necessary when the insurance settlement is unsatisfactory or denied.
  • Suitable for severe injuries requiring extensive medical treatment and rehabilitation.
  • Involves thorough documentation and evidence to prove negligence and damages.
  • May result in higher compensation, but takes longer and involves more legal processes.

Each option has its merits, and the choice depends on the specifics of your case, the severity of your injuries, and the willingness of the insurance company to provide a fair settlement. Seek advice from an experienced motorcycle accident attorney from Hanratty Law Group promptly following the accident.

Filing an Insurance Claim

Filing an insurance claim after a motorcycle accident involves reporting the incident to your insurance company promptly. You will need to provide detailed information about the accident, including the date, time, location, and specifics of how the incident occurred. This includes:

• Medical records
• Accident reports
• Witness statements
• Photographs of the accident scene and any damage

Avoid sharing details about the accident online, as this can complicate the claims process.

Personal Injury Lawsuits

If the insurance settlement offer is unsatisfactory or the claim is denied, pursuing a personal injury claim through a lawsuit may be necessary. This legal action requires thorough documentation and evidence to prove negligence and the extent of your damages, especially when dealing with personal injury claims. 

For example, if a distracted driver was texting and ran a red light, causing the accident, you would need to provide evidence such as witness statements, traffic camera footage, and phone records to establish their negligence.

Gather all relevant evidence, including medical bills, accident reports, and psychological evaluations, to support your motorcycle accident lawsuit. An experienced motorcycle accident lawyer from Hanratty Law Group can guide you through this process, ensuring that your case is presented effectively in court.

Nevada’s Comparative Negligence Law

Nevada’s comparative negligence law allows injured motorcyclists to recover compensation even if they are partially at fault for the accident. According to Nevada Revised Statutes 41.141, as long as the individual is not more than 50% at fault, they can still recover damages. However, the compensation will be reduced based on their percentage of fault.

For example, if a motorcyclist is found to be 10% at fault for a collision, their settlement will be reduced by 10%.

Types of Compensation Available

In Nevada, injured motorcyclists can recover compensation for both economic and non-economic damages.

• Economic damages include tangible financial losses such as:
  • Medical expenses
  • Lost wages
  • Property damage.

These damages are calculated based on actual costs incurred and future expenses related to the accident.

• Non-economic damages address intangible impacts like:
  • Pain and suffering
  • Emotional distress
  • Loss of enjoyment of life

Additionally, punitive damages may be awarded to punish the negligent offender and deter similar behavior in the future. Nevada law does not limit economic or non-economic damages, but it does limit punitive damages.

Why You Need a Las Vegas Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Engaging a seasoned motorcycle accident lawyer significantly increases your chances of receiving maximum compensation and a fair evaluation of your claim. These legal professionals play an integral role in managing your case from beginning to end, collecting and compiling evidence such as accident reports, medical records, and witness statements to build a strong case. In complex situations, they may involve experts like accident reconstructionists or vocational specialists to provide additional support.

Lawyers understand the tactics used by insurance companies to minimize payouts and can handle all communications with them, preventing you from being taken advantage of. They assist in calculating total damages, including lost wages, medical costs, and pain and suffering, and negotiate settlements that reflect the true extent of your injuries.

By hiring an experienced motorcycle accident lawyer, you can confidently pursue the compensation you are entitled to.

How Long Do You Have to File a Motorcycle Accident Claim in Nevada?

In Nevada, motorcycle accident claims must be filed within two years from the date of the accident. This statute of limitations is strict, and failing to file within this timeframe will likely result in forfeiture of your right to seek compensation.

How Hanratty Law Group Can Help You

At Hanratty Law Group, we help motorcycle accident victims in Las Vegas. Our team of experienced personal injury lawyers is here to make sure you get the maximum compensation for your injuries and losses. We know the unique challenges motorcycle riders face and are skilled in handling accident claims.

From the moment you hire us, we will thoroughly investigate your accident, gathering important evidence like police reports, witness statements, and medical records. We will handle all communications with insurance companies to ensure you are not taken advantage of during negotiations. If a fair settlement cannot be reached, we are ready to represent you in court and fight for your best interests.

What to Expect During Your Free Consultation

During a free consultation with Hanratty Law Group, one of our Las Vegas motorcycle accident lawyers will go over the details of your accident and talk about the possible compensation you might get for your injuries. We will look at your case to figure out the right legal strategy for you and see if you have a valid claim. Be ready to answer questions about how the accident happened, your injuries, and any evidence you have, like medical records or police reports.

Contact Us to Pursue the Compensation You Deserve

At Hanratty Law Group, we understand the complexities and challenges that come with motorcycle accident cases. Our experienced team is dedicated to advocating for your rights and guiding you through every step of the legal process. Don’t wait—contact us today at 702-570-9287 for a free consultation. Let us fight for the justice and compensation you are entitled to, so you can focus on your recovery and getting your life back on track.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if the other driver doesn’t have insurance?

If the other driver involved in your motorcycle accident is uninsured, you may still have options for compensation. Your own insurance policy may include uninsured motorist coverage, which can help cover your medical expenses and other damages. It’s important to consult with a motorcycle accident lawyer to explore all possible avenues for recovery.

Can I still file a claim if I wasn’t wearing a helmet during the accident?

Yes, you can still file a claim even if you weren’t wearing a helmet at the time of the accident. However, not wearing a helmet may affect the amount of compensation you receive, especially if you sustained head injuries.

How long does it take to resolve a motorcycle accident case?

The duration of a motorcycle accident case can vary widely depending on its complexity and whether it goes to trial. Some cases may be settled in a few months, while others could take years to resolve.

What happens if the at-fault driver disputes their liability?

If the at-fault driver disputes their liability, your lawyer will gather evidence to establish fault, such as witness statements, police reports, and expert testimony. This evidence will be used to build a strong case to prove the other driver’s negligence.

Can I recover lost wages if I’m unable to work after the accident?

Yes, you can recover lost wages if you’re unable to work due to injuries sustained in a motorcycle accident. This includes not only the income you’ve already lost but also future earnings if your injuries prevent you from returning to work. Detailed documentation of your employment and medical condition will be necessary to support this aspect of your claim.