Chicago Motorcycle Accident Lawyer

Motorcycles are an economical way to get around Chicago, and bikers may feel safe as long as their bikes are mechanically sound and they wear protective gear. Unfortunately, The Illinois Department of Transportation reports over one thousand motorcycle accidents in metro Chicago each year.

Motorists cause most of these wrecks due to acting irresponsibly. Collisions involving motorcycles almost always leave the biker with severe, sometimes fatal, injuries.

A seasoned personal injury attorney could help you with your case if you have been injured in a motorbike crash. Our Chicago motorcycle accident lawyers could guide you through the legal process to help you obtain compensation for your losses.

Common Injuries in Motorcycle Accidents

Motorcycles are much smaller than the surrounding vehicles on the road. Because of this, those who survive crashes can incur serious injuries, including:

Recuperating from devastating injuries takes time and money. The motorist who causes an accident should be held liable to compensate an injured biker for their physical, emotional, and financial losses. A Chicago attorney could help motorcyclists prove the types of damages they are owed in their collision case.

Man riding a motorcycle down a road in autumn

Proving Negligence in a Motorbike Crash

All motorists are held to a legal standard to act as a reasonable person would, such as following traffic laws and safety rules. For instance, speeding and driving under the influence would fall below the reasonable standard.

If a driver’s unacceptable acts are the foreseeable cause of an accident in which a biker is injured, negligence is established. This opens the door to a successful lawsuit. Talk to a motorcycle crash lawyer in Chicago to learn what compensation might be available.

Insurance Companies Push for Settlements

Insurance companies are in business to earn profits for shareholders, not to pay generous settlements to injured motorcyclists. A hardworking attorney could negotiate with insurers to prove that a motorist is at fault for injuring their client and demand a fair and comprehensive settlement.

The Statute of Limitations

The statute of limitations is the period of time Illinois gives plaintiffs to file a civil action for compensation from a negligent party. Illinois Compiled Statutes, § 735 ILCS 5/13-202 allows two years to file from the date of a motorcycle wreck. Some exceptions apply, including if the accident involves:

  • Criminal charges, such as an intentional or reckless act by the motorist
  • Incarceration
  • A local government employee

Similarly, if an escrow account is established in the defendant’s name under the Criminal Victims’ Escrow Account Act, the plaintiff has two years from the date the account is set up to bring an action for compensation.

These laws are complex and missing a filing deadline can prevent a motorcyclist from seeking restitution. An injured biker could enlist the help of a Chicago motorcycle crash lawyer who could file all documentation and evidence on time.

Talk to a Chicago Motorcycle Accident Attorney Today

Motorcycle collisions happen every day across the country, and when you are involved in one, you should be prepared to speak with a trusted legal professional from McCready Law. They could help you gain the compensation you need to pay medical bills and replace your wages.

Call our firm today to schedule a consultation with our team. A Chicago motorcycle accident lawyer is standing by to help you.