Wheeling Motorcycle Accident Lawyers

 Riding your motorcycle around Wheeling is one of the most enjoyable summertime activities in the city, but it is not without its risks. Due to the size of a motorcycle compared to other vehicles, lower visibility, and the lack of a protective metal barrier, motorcycle accidents can lead to serious injuries for victims. Fatality rates are also high, even for riders who go the safe route by wearing a motorcycle helmet.

At SAM LAW OFFICE, LLC, our motorcycle accident lawyers in Wheeling are persistent in negotiating a settlement with the insurance company, but are prepared to take the case to court if necessary to protect your rights. Please contact our Wheeling office to schedule a free consultation, and read on for some important information about these cases.

 Statistics on Motorcycle Accidents 

The Insurance Information Institute compiles data on various motor vehicle crashes, and the numbers on motorcycle accidents show how dangerous these incidents can be. 

• There were 5,286 riders killed in traffic collisions in 2016, a year that saw more fatalities than any other since 2007 except for one: In 2008, 5,312 victims lost their lives in motorcycle accidents.
• Though injuries have generally declined in recent years, there were still approximately 88,000 victims hurt in motorcycle crashes in 2015. The highest number of injured riders was 103,000 in 2007.
• Evenings are the deadliest time to ride a motorcycle, as 42.5% of fatal collisions occur between 3 p.m. and 9 p.m. This same time frame also presents the highest risk of getting hurt, as 44.5 of all injury-causing motorcycle accidents happen during this six hour period.

Compensation for Your Losses

If you are hurt in a motorcycle accident, you may be entitled to recover compensation for your losses. As with other motor vehicle crashes, these collisions are usually the result of negligence. Our attorneys at SAM LAW OFFICE, LLC, gather evidence and develop a legal strategy to prove the essential elements of your claim. Once we establish the necessary facts, we can help you recover for such damages as: 

• Medical expenses;
• Lost wages;
• Pain and suffering;
• Scarring and disfigurement;
• Permanent or temporary disability; and,
• Many more.

Limitations on Your Wheeling Motorcycle Accident Claim

There are some legal issues that may affect your right to compensation, including:

• Statute of Limitations: Under state law, you have two years from the date of your motorcycle accident to sue the negligent driver. The Illinois statute of limitations is a complete bar to your claim if you fail to file a lawsuit within this time period.
• Comparative Negligence: If your own conduct amounts to negligence, Illinois law may reduce the compensation you can recover in a motorcycle crash. The percentage of fault attributable to you is subtracted from your damages.

Contact a Wheeling Motorcycle Accident Lawyer About Filing a Claim

Our injury attorneys at SAM LAW OFFICE, LLC, are committed to getting the highest amount of compensation available under Illinois law after you suffer injuries in a motorcycle crash. For more information or to schedule a free, confidential consultation in our Wheeling office, please call us today. You can also complete our contact form and visit our website to learn more about our legal services for victims of motorcycle accidents.